Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition Changes in a Five-Time Olympic Champion in Greco-Roman Wrestling: A Longitudinal Case Study Towards the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Carvajal-Veitia, W; Herrera-Amante, CA; Yáñez-Sepúlveda, R; Gainza-Pérez, V; Deturnell-Campos, Y; Cristi-Montero, C.; Cortés-Roco, G; Ramos-García, CO

Keywords: anthropometry, body composition, somatotype, athletic performance, elite athlete, wrestling, sports nutritional sciences

Abstract

Purpose: This case study examines the anthropometric characteristics and body composition changes of a 41-year-old Cuban Greco-Roman 130 kg wrestler, a five-time Olympic gold medalist (2008–2024). To optimize his preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, another athlete participated in the qualifying process, allowing him to train without competition gear. Methods: The study monitored changes in body composition using anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) at three key time points in 2024: January, June, and July. The final assessment occurred 25 days before the Olympic event, coinciding with the final phase of his preparation. Results: The analysis revealed a significant reduction in total body mass, from 150 kg in January to 138.5 kg in July, with fat mass decreasing from 37.06 kg (24.11%) to 29.7 kg (21.5%). Muscle mass decreased slightly (77.41 kg to 72.3 kg), while bone mass remained stable. The somatotype classification was endomorphic–mesomorphic at all assessments, with slight shifts in its components (4.6–10.4–0.1 in January to 4.4–10.3–0.1 in July), reflecting an improved muscle–fat ratio. Notably, hydration levels and cellular integrity remained stable, as indicated by BIVA analysis. Conclusions: This study provides insight into the anthropometric characteristics and body composition of an elite Greco-Roman wrestler, as well as the changes observed during his preparation for his final Olympic participation. These data serve as a valuable reference for wrestlers and sports professionals, highlighting the physical profile of one of the most emblematic figures in Olympic history. © 2025 by the authors.

Más información

Título según WOS: Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition Changes in a Five-Time Olympic Champion in Greco-Roman Wrestling: A Longitudinal Case Study Towards the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Título de la Revista: Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology
Volumen: 10
Número: 2
Editorial: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)
Fecha de publicación: 2025
Idioma: English
DOI:

10.3390/jfmk10020176

Notas: ISI