Weight class

Weight classes are divisions of competition used to match competitors against others of their own size. Weight classes are used in a variety of sports including rowing, weight lifting, and especially combat sports such as boxing, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Alternatives to formal weight classes include catch weight and openweight.

The existence of weight divisions gives rise to the practice of weight cutting. To be the largest individual in a weight division is perceived as advantageous; therefore many athletes lose weight through dieting and dehydration prior to weigh-ins to qualify for a lower weight class.

Below are selected maximum weight limits for the major classes in different sports.

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu weight classes
• Boxing weight classes
• Judo weight classes
• Kickboxing weight classes
• Mixed martial arts weight classes
• Professional wrestling weight classes
• Taekwondo weight classes
• Wrestling weight classes

• Media related to Weight classes at Wikimedia Commons