The Best Weight Class for You is the One You Recover In

Weight classes can seriously mess with your head. Trust me, I've been there.

When I first stepped into the world of weightlifting, I was laser-focused on being a 64kg lifter. At 168cm tall, it seemed like the logical choice. Then, during a weightlifting clinic, a coach casually suggested, “You should be working towards lifting as a 75kg.” Cue the internal meltdown.

I was confused, offended, and honestly, a bit pissed. Why on earth would I want to add body weight (and yes, some body fat) when I thought the whole point was to lift the most while weighing the least? 

Spoiler Alert: It’s Not That Simple.

Especially when you're new to weightlifting, obsessing over weight classes is a trap. It’s easy to get caught up in comparisons or fixate on a specific weight class before you’ve even built a solid foundation. But here’s the truth: those early years should be about mastering the movements, getting stronger, and falling in love with the process. Focus on those basics, and the PBs and podium finishes will come when you're truly ready.

Fueling for Performance, Not for the ‘Gram

Look, I’m not saying you should ditch your nutrition plan and go on a donut binge. But let’s be real—there’s a massive difference between fuelling for performance and white-knuckling your way through a calorie deficit just to make weight.

As you progress in weightlifting, your body will change. You’ll gain muscle, and yes, maybe a bit of body fat too. And guess what? That’s OKAY. In fact, it’s a sign your training is working! More muscle and strength come with a few extra kilos, and that’s exactly what you want when you’re chasing those big lifts.

The High Cost of Cutting Corners

Constantly cutting weight or restricting calories? That’s a recipe for disaster. We’re talking about more than just your strength and muscle growth. It messes with your sleep, your mood, your energy levels, and even your hormones. It’s a fast track to burnout, injuries, and a whole lot of unnecessary stress.

My Own Weight Class Rollercoaster

I’ll admit it—I spent way too long fighting against my body’s natural growth, stubbornly clinging to a weight class that wasn’t serving me. Sure, I had the “sick abs” that made me feel like a badass, but my lifts were stagnant, my period disappeared, and I was constantly on the verge of a breakdown.
Then I hit my breaking point. I said, “Enough is enough.” I moved up a weight class, started fuelling my body properly, and guess what? My lifts went through the roof! I hit PBs left and right, but more importantly, I felt happy, healthy, and finally in control of my training.

You’re Not Alone in This Struggle

If you’re stressing about weight classes, know that you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, buying into the myth that leaner is always better. But it’s time to shift the focus back to what truly matters: performance, progress, and your overall well-being.

Remember:

- The best weight class is the one where you thrive. That means training hard, recovering fully, and feeling your best inside and outside the gym.

- Focus on performance, not just the scale. Chasing a number on the scale can lead you down a dangerous path. Instead, prioritize getting stronger, refining your technique, and enjoying the journey.

- Weightlifting is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, trust the process, and fuel your body for long-term success.

- Don’t be afraid to seek help. If you’re struggling with weight class decisions or nutrition, reach out to a qualified professional. Having someone in your corner can make all the difference.

If you’re looking for more guidance, MWBC works closely with a network of amazing professionals who can help. Click here to chat with a coach, and we’ll point you in the right direction.

-Coach Caity