[TRIANGLEFROMGAURD]

For me I have three different weights. My natural weight would probably be some where around 158lbs but, due to the fact that I weight train I have more mass then the average person my size and height. So I have a natural walk weight of around 200lbs. My training weight is 10lbs lighter then this at 190lbs. My competition weight is 170lbs (welter weight). The idea of cutting weight is very simple I want to be at the top of my weight class pound wise not at the bottom I am less likely to give up any strength if this is the case.

My natural walk weight would put me at light heavy weight which I am far to short for. My everyday training weight would put me at middle weight which again I am far to short for. So I cut to welter weight because it where I can perform at my best. My speed, power,cardio and reach(although I'm still a little short at welter) are at their optimum levels.

Now as far as weighing in the night before for someone like me I love this because at weigh ins I'm close to dehydrated and my body has no carbs or sugar in it for fuel. So I get to refuel from my training before I fight. So now for the big controversy how much do I weigh on fight day. After eating and drinking I generally weigh in somewhere between 173lbs and 176lbs. So really not that much above my required weight class.

So why cut? When I compete my body runs at a much higher rate. Due to the level of stress I am putting on it and because of the adrenaline that is going through my system. Training at this level all the time would eventually either shorten my career or kill me. Your body needs rest.

Cutting weight allows you to maintain a normal healthy life style while still be to athletically compete at your best. A lot of people look at it as cheating the system it's not really that though it's about not cheating your self.

P.S. my fat weight right now because of surgeries and what not is 235lbs