How to Gain Weight as a Fighter

When it is time to prepare for a bout, some fighters must work to gain weight. This is not the same process as someone trying to gain general weight, wherever it may fall. Fighters must gain in specific areas of the body and generally, the weight gained needs to be primarily muscle weight to aid them in their training. There are several ways in which a fighter can gain weight in a way that is healthy and beneficial to his career.

Instructions

    • 1

      Add between 800 and 1,000 calories to your daily calorie count. Chances are, you are working out like crazy in preparation, so the regular calories you consume on a daily basis are likely being burned off quickly. This extra 1,000 calories will help to gain some weight despite all of the extra training.

    • 2

      Focus on proteins. The more proteins you can consume, the better. If you find that you don't want to eat much more, consider protein shakes and other liquid products that help fighters to add bulk. These shakes generally have needed minerals and vitamins as well as protein to ensure that you aren't gaining a ton of unhealthy fat, as you might if you to down a bunch of cheeseburgers and pizzas instead.

    • 3

      Add some carbohydrates -- called "carbs" -- to help you bulk up and maintain your energy. Carbs include pasta, oatmeal and rice (preferably brown), all of which can significantly raise your energy level.

    • 4

      Incorporate plenty of healthy fats into your diet. Healthy fats include peanut butter and flax oil, both of which are a core part of a fighter's diet. Peanut butter in particular is a good choice because it also provides added protein.

    • 5

      Stay hydrated. As you bulk up and begin eating more, don't forget to continue to ingest plenty of fluids, including water and electrolyte-replenishing sports drinks. Not only is this healthier for you, but the extra water weight will help you when it is time to weigh in just before your next fight.