Fight Camp Weight Targets for MMA Fighters
UFC Performance Institute’s Weight Management Guidelines: Ensuring Optimal Performance and Safety
Weight management is a crucial aspect of a mixed martial artist’s preparation for a fight. To help fighters achieve optimal performance while minimizing health risks, the UFC Performance Institute has established recommended body weight ranges for various stages of a fighter’s camp. These guidelines are based on both published research and data collected by the institute. By adhering to these recommendations, fighters can avoid severe weight cuts and the associated dangers of drastic calorie deficits.
Recommended Fight Camp Weight Targets
Strawweight (115 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 124.4-126.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 128.8 lbs
Beginning of camp: 133.4 lbs
Flyweight (125 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 135.0-137.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 140.0 lbs
Beginning of camp: 145.0 lbs
Bantamweight (135 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 145.8-148.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 151.2 lbs
Beginning of camp: 156.6 lbs
Featherweight (145 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 156.6-159.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 162.4 lbs
Beginning of camp: 168.2 lbs
Lightweight (155 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 167.4-170.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 173.6 lbs
Beginning of camp: 179.8 lbs
Welterweight (170 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 183.6-187.0 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 190.4 lbs
Beginning of camp: 197.2 lbs
Middleweight (185 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 199.8-203.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 207.2 lbs
Beginning of camp: 214.6 lbs
Light Heavyweight (205 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 221.4-225.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 229.6 lbs
Beginning of camp: 237.8 lbs
Heavyweight (265 lbs)
2 weeks before weigh-ins: 286.2-291.5 lbs
6 weeks before weigh-ins: 296.8 lbs
Beginning of camp: 307.4 lbs
Importance of Weight Management
Proper weight management is not just about hitting the scales right on weigh-in day; it’s about maintaining health, performance, and longevity in the sport. Extreme weight cuts can lead to severe dehydration, diminished performance, and long-term health issues. By following these guidelines, fighters can approach their weight cuts more scientifically and safely.
It’s important to note that these weight targets serve as a general guide. Individual fighters may experience different weight trends due to factors such as training intensity, overall health, and body composition. Thus, it’s crucial for fighters to work closely with their coaches and nutritionists to tailor these recommendations to their personal needs.
For more in-depth information, fighters and fans alike can download Volume Two of the UFC Performance Institute Journal, available for free using this link: