Making weight for bodybuilding category?

Meaningless · Sep 12, 2012

I am very curious as to what are tips and tricks the 212 pros and experienced amateur bodybuilders use to make weight divisions, and then fill back up again? I have heard some 212's stand on stage much heavier than 212, they just get down to that for the weigh in.

I am currently dieting for my 6th bodybuilding competition, and this is the first time I will be competing in a weight division, I hope to compete as light middleweight, 176lbs, however I expect when I end my diet in 6 weeks I will be approximately 183lbs. I am considering dehydrating severely, then immediately after weight in hitting a fast food joint to try load up and fill back out, I dont know if a few hours would be enough time for this though. If I find myself at my expected weight a couple days before the competition what should I do.
I would be extremely grateful if any of the more experienced and top level bodybuilders could provide some suggestions, especially those who have experience in competing in a weight class, but standing on stage heavier.

Kaladryn · Sep 12, 2012

Their "trick" as I understand it is that they are lucky enough to have weigh-ins on Wednesday morning... Personally I take at least 3 days to fully carb up, and from my fully depleted state to weigh-ins I usually gain around 10lbs.

Meaningless · Sep 12, 2012

Kaladryn said:
Their "trick" as I understand it is that they are lucky enough to have weigh-ins on Wednesday morning... Personally I take at least 3 days to fully carb up, and from my fully depleted state to weigh-ins I usually gain around 10lbs.

Wednesday weight in would make a big difference, nevermind anyway, I was 195lbs this morning, with 6 weeks to go, doubt Ill make the category anyway.

jp2007 · Sep 12, 2012

Compete where you will look best. You don't want to try and make 176 but look like a stick figure.

But for sake of conversation I have heard of guys severely dehydrating and even to the extreme of using and enema.

In 2009 Nathan Detracy had to lose like 3 pounds in a couple to make weight for Nationals.. I believe he did cardio & sat in the sauna to sweat it out. I'm sure he took some dieuretics as well.