Olympic preparation in Brazilian judo athletes: description and perceived relevance of training practices

Strength and Conditioning (S&C) Practices of Judo Athletes and S&C Coaches: A Survey-Based Investigation

ABSTRACT

Weldon, A, Cloak, R, Kirk, C, Ruddock, A, Langan-Evans, C, Detanico, D, Loturco, I, and Kons, R. Strength and conditioning (S&C) practices of judo athletes and S&C coaches: A survey-based investigation. J Strength Cond Res 38(4): e160-e173, 2024-The benefits of strength and conditioning (S&C) for improving judo performance and reducing injuries have been widely studied. However, the S&C practices used and perspectives held by those delivering S&C have yet to be elucidated. Therefore, this study investigated the S&C practices and perspectives of judokas and S&C coaches working within judo. Forty-two judokas and 9 S&C coaches completed an online survey comprising 6 sections: (a) written informed consent; (b) background information; (c) education, qualifications, and prescription; (d) views on S&C; (e) exercise selection; and (f) issues and improvements. Frequency analysis was used to report responses to fixed-response questions and thematic analysis for open-ended questions. Results indicated that S&C coaches were primarily responsible for delivering S&C programs (60%), and S&C information was predominantly sourced from S&C coaches (43%). Strength and conditioning was deemed very important for randori (78-88%), overall judo performance (67-79%), and judo fitness (62-78%). Similarly, S&C was considered very important for the development of speed and power (76-89%), strength (71-89%), and injury reduction (69-78%). Novel findings were also observed, such as integrating judo-specific training within S&C practice, which may be partly explained by more S&C coaches holding judo belts (67%) than S&C qualifications (11%). This study supports practitioners delivering S&C in judo by offering a base of information to critique or align with their existing S&C practices and perspectives. Furthermore, our results may help identify potential gaps between methods used, proposed guidelines, and actual practice, facilitating the development of research and education resources tailored to the current climate.

Cadet and Junior Performance Is Associated With Senior's World Championship and Olympics Achievement in Judo

Purpose: We determined whether cadet and junior Judo World Championship participation and medal achievement would predict senior performance at World Championship (WC) and Olympic Games (OG). Methods: We analyzed retrospectively a total of 7780 athletes who competed at the OG and WC in the cadet, junior, and senior between 2009 and 2021. Results: There was an increase in the probability of winning a medal in the senior category (WC and OG, and only WC) ranged from 4.3 to 4.5 for medal-winning cadets compared to non-medalists and this probability remained around 3.3-3.8 for medalists in the male and 5.3-5.4 for the female medalists in cadet WC. Moreover, the chance of winning a medal in the senior category (WC and OG) was 8.1-8.5 times greater for medalists when compared to non-medalists in the junior WC. In turn, the probability of winning a medal in the senior (WC) was 1.5-1.7 times greater for athletes who did not compete in the junior WC. In the OG, the probability of winning a medal was 3.5 greater times for medalists when compared to non-medalists at cadet and junior WC. Conclusion: Thus, being a cadet or junior WC medalist increases the probability of winning a senior WC or an Olympic medal.

Different Methods of Winning, Losing, and Training in Combat Sports and Their Relationship with Overall Competitive Winningness

This study aimed to investigate how overall competitive winningness in combat sports depended on patterns of victory and loss, as well as training habits. Competitors (N = 280) from several combat sports participated in the study. The online survey included questions on self-reported patterns of victory (and loss), training habits, general demographics (e.g., age), and sport-specific information (e.g., stage of career and competitive style). Overall, it was found across four models that reflected diversity of winningness in combat sports that the most important predictors of competitive winningness were loss by points (negative), loss by submission (negative), loss (negative) or victory (positive) by throw or technical fall, and loss (negative) or victory (positive) by knockout. The findings applied to amateur and regional/state athletes, and rarely to karate or tae kwon do. Findings around demographics or training habits were largely unremarkable, outside of a relationship between higher training loads and less career winning in wrestlers. Results show that while winning via a finishing sequence (e.g., knockout or submission) is preferable to the judge's decision or points, the matter of victory is less important than the methods by which an athlete loses. In grappling-only sports, we observed a trend that more losses via finishing sequence were worse for careers than losing by points. In fact, having most of one's losses coming via judge's decision or points was beneficial in wrestling and judo, perhaps due to athletes taking less risks and having better defence. These findings may aid practitioners developing effective tactics and training programs.

A New Developmental Approach for Judo Focusing on Health, Physical, Motor, and Educational Attributes

Judo is currently the most practiced combat sport in the world. There is no doubt of its importance for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. However, due to its inherent complexity, coaches tend to place greater or lesser emphasis only on one of its multiple domains during the judoka formative years. The present study presents a novel developmental approach signaling Judo as an excellent way for physical, motor, educational, and health development across the lifespan. In this study, we consulted 23 Judo coaches, aiming to clarify the relevance and adequacy of the domains (Competitive, Health, Technical-Tactical, and Philosophical-Educational) and phases of the proposed model. Our findings showed that the model contents-physical, motor, educational, and health-are entwined with its four domains, which were considered of utmost importance by experts in the development of judokas. We, therefore, contend that our model is essential to better understand the growth and development of young judokas. Also, it may be a useful tool for Motor Development experts.

The Effects of Various Work-to-Rest Ratios During High-Intensity Intermittent Exercises on Uchi-Komi Performance and Postexercise Heart Rate and Blood Lactate in Judo Athletes

ABSTRACT

Ceylan, B and Balci, SS. The effects of various work-to-rest ratios during high-intensity intermittent exercises on uchi-komi performance and postexercise heart rate and blood lactate in judo athletes. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2022-Uchi-komi exercises are the most important component of judo training. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different rest intervals during high-intensity intermittent uchi-komi exercises on total technique repetitions and physiological load in judo athletes. Twenty-two male judo athletes (mean age 19.0 ± 1.2 years, judo experience 7.6 ± 22.7 years) voluntarily participated in this study. Athletes' body composition and judo-specific performance were determined. The athletes randomly performed 20 seconds × 8 sets of high-intensity intermittent exercise using ippon-seoi-nage technique with 1:1/2, 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3 work-to-rest ratios on separate days. Before and 1, 7, 15, and 30 minutes after each exercise, athletes' heart rate (HR) and blood lactate were determined. The number of repetitions differed according to rest durations, when the rest duration decreased, the number of the repetitions decreased (F21, 441 = 7.09, p < 0.001). Blood lactate responses were similar during the exercises with different rest intervals (F3,63 = 2.15, p = 0.10). The shorter the rest duration, the higher the HR (F3,63 = 6.81, p < 0.001). The current study proposed that 1:2 and 1:3 work-to-rest ratios at high-intensity intermittent uchi-komi exercise are the most appropriate intervals to ensure a high number of technique repetitions and the continuity of the training.

Effects of Supplementary Strength Program on Generic and Specific Physical Fitness in Cadet Judo Athletes

ABSTRACT

Branco, BHM, Marcondes, VA, de Paula Ramos, S, Badilla, PV, and Andreato, LV. Effects of supplementary strength program on generic and specific physical fitness in cadet judo athletes. J Strength Cond Res 36(10): 2816-2823, 2022-This study aimed to investigate the effects of a supplementary strength program on general and specific physical fitness in under-18 judo athletes. In total, 21 athletes were randomized into 2 groups: experimental group (EG: aged = 15.5 ± 1.2 years; body mass = 71.3 ± 10.6 kg; practice time = 5.1 ± 1.2 years) and control group (aged = 16.6 ± 0.5 years; body mass = 71.7 ± 11.0 kg; practice time = 5.6 ± 0.8 years). Athletes were submitted to anthropometry, generic physical fitness tests (countermovement jump, one-repetition maximum in bench-press, row, and half-squat machine), and specific field tests (isometric and dynamic judogi chin-up and Special Judo Fitness Test [SJFT]). All measurements were presented at baseline, and 8 athletes per group completed pre-training and post-training assessments. Both groups performed the same judo training routine, and the EG also performed 3/weekly/sessions of strength training for 8 weeks. All measurements were conducted during the competitive season. There were no differences in body mass, height, and body fat percentage after the training period (p > 0.05). Improvements were observed in maximal strength for bench press (26.6%), row (17.7%), half-squat machine (29%), dynamic judogi chin-up (33%), and the following SJFT responses: block A (16.7%), block B (11.3%), sum of 3 blocks (8.3%), heart rate after 1 minute (-7.0%), and index (-12.5%), representing performance improvement for the EG. It was concluded that 8 weeks of strength training was positive for general and specific performance. Finally, this strength program may help coaches to develop strength without changes in body mass.

Determining the optimal areas of effort in terms of force and force-velocity based on the functional state of the neuromuscular system in the training of elite female judokas

Background

The evaluation of the functional state of the neuromuscular system (NMS) in elite female judokas according to the muscular activity indices is influenced by the force (F) and force-velocity (F-V) efforts. The implementation of the individual correction plan in the elite female judokas' process of instruction and training must be based on the accurate determination of the force and force-velocity effort areas throughout the training and competitive periods.

Methods

The research involved 44 elite female judokas, divided in to two experimental groups (A, C) and two control groups (B, D). To diagnose the NMS, 21 elite female judokas were evaluated, belonging to different classification categories, divided into three groups: group I-category I (Cat. I), group II-candidates for Masters of Sports (CMS) and group III-Masters of Sports (MS).The evaluation of NMS was performed at the end of each two-week cycle, using 3 tests: Tmax-time to reach the maximum muscle contraction, (msec); Fy -examination of elasticity indices in different muscles, (Hz); J-explosive muscular strength, (kg/s). Measurements were made for six muscle groups and 9 indices of fitness tests: 5 force tests (F) and 4 force-velocity tests (F-V). The research was carried out during 24 cycles, each one lasting two weeks: 12 training cycles and 12 competitive ones. Each cycle lasted two weeks. During the research, the model plan of training for F and F-V was used, determining the optimal areas of F and F-V training efforts in the preparation and competitive periods. In the experimental groups (A and C), according to the data of judokas' NMS functional state evaluation, the individual correction of the F and F-V efforts was performed every two weeks. As for the control groups (B, D), traditional methods of training were used.

Results

The NMS evaluation of the female judokas was made every two weeks and the level of correlation of Tmax, Fy and J indices was determined. The value of the Fy index at F effort is 32% in group I, 30% - in group II, 27% - in group III, 28-30% at the effort of F-V. The total number of corrections in group A: 79 negative corrections and 59 positive corrections, while in group C: 65 negative corrections and 89 positive ones. Within the F-V effort, the number of effort corrections in group A was: 68 negative corrections and 92 positive; in group C - 81 positive and 78 negative corrections. The female judokas' results in the final stage of EG-A were significantly improved in F indices by 52.15%, F-V by 6.22% and 6.18%. In the EG-C, the F increased considerably by 7.52%, F-V by 5.67% and 7.20%. These results characterize the level of physical training.

Conclusion

The functional state of the NMS in elite judokas, determined according to the temporal indices of reaching the maximal muscular contraction, the muscle explosive strength and the muscles elasticity, is subjected to dynamics under the influence of force effort and force-velocity effort.

The Role of Competition Area and Training Type on Physiological Responses and Perceived Exertion in Female Judo Athletes

This study investigated the combined effects of competition area (4 × 4, 6 × 6, and 8 × 8 m) and judo-specific training type (tachi-waza, ne-waza, and free randori) on physiological responses and perceived exertion in female judo athletes. In a within-subject design, 12 female subelite and elite athletes who competed at regional or national levels with a mean training background of 8.4 ± 0.5 years performed the experimental conditions (i.e., combats (viz., matches) featuring different area/training type combinations) in random order. The following measurements at different time points were chosen: blood lactate before and after each match; heart rate before, mean, and peak for each match; and rating of perceived exertion immediately after each match. Two-factor analysis of variance was used to compare between conditions, while Bonferroni post hoc test and magnitude of difference were used to measure significance. There was no main effect of training type or area size on lactate before each match, heart rate (HR) before each match, HR mean during each match, and rating of perceived exertion. Main effects of training type and area size were found for lactate after each event, with the values being greater in free randori compared to tachi-waza and ne-waza and in 4 × 4 m compared to 6 × 6 and 8 × 8 m area. Main effects of training type and area size were also found in peak heart rate, with lower values in ne-waza compared to free randori and tachi-waza and in 8 × 8 m compared to 4 × 4 m area. The results demonstrate that varying training modality and area size may alter physiological responses during female judo combats by putting stress on the cardiovascular system and increasing anaerobic glycolysis solicitation.

Physiological Responses During Female Judo Combats: Impact of Combat Area Size and Effort to Pause Ratio Variations

ABSTRACT

Ouergui, I, Kamzi, S, Houcine, N, Abedelmalek, S, Bouassida, A, Bouhlel, E, and Franchini, E. Physiological responses during female judo combats: impact of combat area size and effort to pause ratio variations. J Strength Cond Res 35(7): 1987-1991, 2021-This study investigated the effect of area size (4 × 4, 6 × 6, and 8 × 8 m) and effort-pause ratio (free combat, 2:1 and 3:1) on the physiological and perceptive responses during female judo combats. Twelve female judo athletes (mean ± SD: age: 17.1 ± 0.4 years; height: 160 ± 7 cm; body mass: 59.8 ± 11.5 kg; body fat: 25.7 ± 5.5%; and judo experience: 8.4 ± 0.5 years) volunteered to perform nine 4-minute randoris randomly determined. Blood lactate [La] before and after combats, heart rate before combat (HRpre), mean HR (HRmean), peak HR (HRpeak), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) immediately after the combats were assessed for each condition. Results showed that [La] pre and HR values did not differ according to time structure and area sizes (p > 0.05). However, [La] post was higher on free randori compared with 3:1 ratio (p = 0.006) and in the 4 × 4-m area compared with 6 × 6-m (p < 0.001) and 8 × 8-m (p = 0.036) areas. Moreover, RPE was higher in the 4 × 4 m compared with 8 × 8 m (p = 0.038). In conclusion, combining time structure and area sizes may alter physiological and perceptual responses during female judo randori. Moreover, combat-based exercises may be effective in preparing athletes to cope with physiological and technical demands of the combat by stressing properly the energy systems solicited during official competitions.

Different Training Methods Cause Similar Muscle Damage in Youth Judo Athletes

It is well known that different factors can contribute to muscle damage in judo matches or training. Previous research analyzed only the effects of simulated judo combat or judo training on biochemical markers of muscle damage without determining its specific causes. Our objective was to identify possible differences in biochemical markers of muscular damage in response to different training methods in youth judo athletes. Twelve high-level male judo athletes were randomly assigned to a standing (SP, n = 6, age = 16.6 ± 1.1 years) or a groundwork (GP, n = 6, age = 17.8 ± 0.8 years) position combat practice group. Both groups had the same protocol of four 4-minute combat practice bouts separated by 1-minute rest intervals. Before and immediately after combat practice blood samples were taken to assess muscle damage markers: creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). There were significant increases in AST, LDH, and CK after the standing and groundwork training sessions compared with resting values in both groups. Additionally, no significant differences in the enzyme's activity between SP and GP groups were found. These results showed that standing and groundwork randori training (free sparring or free practice) causes similar muscle damage in adolescent judo athletes. Future research should assess the effects of the same damage mechanisms over a longer period of time.

The Specific Judo Training Program Combined With the Whole Body Cryostimulation Induced an Increase of Serum Concentrations of Growth Factors and Changes in Amino Acid Profile in Professional Judokas

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a specific training program, supported by 10 sessions of whole body cryostimulation, on growth factors concentrations, amino acids profile and motor abilities in professional judokas. Ultimately, twelve athletes took part in the study. They were randomly assigned to the cryostimulation group (CRY, n = 6) or the control group (CON, n = 6). During 2 weeks of the judo training program, the CRY group performed 10 cryo-sessions (3-min, at a temperature of -110°C) and the CON group rested passively. Anthropometric measurements, a strength test, the Special Judo Efficiency Test (SJET) were assessed 2 days before and after the judo training program. Blood samples were collected at rest, 1 h after the first and the second SJET and 1 h after the first and the last cryo-session to establish growth factors and amino acid concentrations. Lactate level was measured before, immediately after and 1 h after the first and the second SJET. The applied intervention resulted in a significant increase of resting concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (from 10.23 ± 1.61 to 15.13 ± 2.93 ng⋅ml^-1; p = 0.01) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1; from 174.29 ± 49.34 to 300.50 ± 43.80 pg⋅ml^-1; p = 0.00) in the CRY group. A different response was registered 1 h directly post SJET in the CRY group (a significant increase of IGF-1, interleukin 15 and irisin: p = 0.01; p = 0.00; p = 0.03). Additionally, the significant drop of proline and leucine concentrations in the CRY group was obtained. Athletes' performance remained unchanged in both groups. However, subjects perceived positive changes induced by the intervention - not directly after cryostimulation but in response to the specific training workload. The increase of growth factors concentrations and the improvement of amino acid profile (proline and leucine) contributed to maintaining a high level of muscle function.

Relationship between Perceived Training Load, Well-Being Indices, Recovery State and Physical Enjoyment during Judo-Specific Training

This study investigated the relationship between well-being indices and the session rating of perceived exertion (session-RPE), recovery (TQR), and physical enjoyment (PE) during intensified, tapering phases of judo training. Sixty-one judo athletes (37 males, ranges 14-17 years, 159-172 cm, 51-67 kg) were randomly assigned to three experimental (i.e., randori, uchi-komi, running) and control groups (regular training). Experimental groups trained four times per week for 4 weeks of intensified training followed by 12 days of tapering. Session-RPE, well-being indices (i.e., sleep, stress, fatigue, delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS), Hooper index (HI)), and TQR were measured every session, whereas PE was recorded after intensified, tapering periods. Recovery (TQR) was negatively correlated with sleep, stress, fatigue, DOMS, HI, session-RPE in intensified period and was negatively correlated with sleep, stress, fatigue, DOMS, HI in tapering. Session-RPE was positively correlated with sleep, fatigue, DOMS, HI in intensified period and positively correlated with fatigue, DOMS in tapering. PE was negatively correlated with stress in intensified training. Enjoyment could be partially predicted by sleep only in intensified periods. Session-RPE could be partially predicted by TQR, fatigue during intensified periods and by sleep, and HI during tapering. Sleep, recovery state, pre-fatigue states, and HI are signals contributing to the enjoyment and internal intensity variability during training. Coaches can use these simple tools to monitor judo training.

SEASONAL VARIATIONS IN BLOOD PARAMETERS AMONG KYRGYZ ELITE JUDO ATHLETES

ABSTRACT Introduction: Evaluation of health status and physical condition of Kyrgyz Judo Athletes before the Olympic Games. Objective: To evaluate changes in hematological, biochemical and blood gas values of athletes during the training period. Methods: Eight elite athletes (n=8 men), participated to the study. Before and after the exercise periods (baseline, 3rd month and 6th month), blood samples were taken, to determine plasma red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), blood clot cell (PLT), granulocyte (NOTR) and agranulocyte (LNF) counts, hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT) values, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and venous blood pH, PO2, PCO2, SAT O2, HCO3, BE, Na, K, Cl values. In addition, serum glucose (Glu), total protein (TP), total cholesterol (TC), HDL cholesterol, triglyceride (Trig), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Creat), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values were measured. Results: Although, the athletes’ WBC and LNF counts increased significantly (p<0.05) in post-exercise periods, no statistical significance (p>0.05) was found in the other hematological parameters. Blood pH, pCO2, HCO3 and BE values decreased (P<0.05) after the exercise periods. Conclusion: The effects of exercise on judo athletes were evaluated before the Olympics. Level of Evidence III; Case-control study.

Changes in Perceived Exertion, Well-Being, and Recovery During Specific Judo Training: Impact of Training Period and Exercise Modality

The present study investigated the effect of intense and tapering training periods using different exercise modalities (i.e., Randori – grip dispute practice without throwing technique, Uchi-komi – technique repetition training, and sprinting) on rating of perceived exertion (RPE), well-being indices, recovery state, and physical enjoyment in judo athletes. Sixty-one adolescent male and female judo athletes (age: 15 ± 1 years) were randomly assigned to one of three experimental or one control groups. Experimental groups (Randori, Uchi-komi, and running) trained four times per week for 4 weeks of intense training (in addition to their usual technical-tactical judo training; control group underwent only such a training) followed by 12 days of tapering. RPE, well-being indices [i.e., sleep, stress, fatigue, and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)], total quality of recovery (TQR), and physical enjoyment were measured every session. RPE, sleep, stress, fatigue, DOMS, Hooper index (HI; sum of wellbeing indices), and TQR were lower in the tapering compared with the intensified training period (P < 0.001). Moreover, the running group showed better values for sleep (P < 0.001), stress (P < 0.001), fatigue (P = 0.006), DOMS (P < 0.001), and HI (P < 0.001) in comparison with the other training groups, indicating a more negative state of wellbeing. The Randori and Uchi-komi groups showed higher values for TQR and physical enjoyment (both P < 0.001) than the running group, whereas RPE was lower in the control compared with all training groups (P < 0.001). Coaches should use more specific training modalities (i.e., Randori and Uchi-komi) during intensified training and should monitor well-being indices, RPE, and TQR during training periods. Moreover, for all variables, 12 days tapering period are beneficial for improving wellbeing and recovery after 4 weeks of intense training.

Tracking 25 years of judo results from the World Championships and Olympic Games: Age and competitive achievement

We quantified the peak age of judokas during the World Championships (WC) and Olympic Games (OG) according to sex, weight category and competitive achievement and determined the relationship between competition year and athlete age. A retrospective study including 12,005 athletes who took part in the last 16 WC and 6 OG. Athletes were divided by sex, weight category and competitive achievement. Overall, females were younger than males, and older athletes competed at the OG compared to the WC. A weight category effect was also observed, with lighter athletes being younger than heavier athletes (p < 0.05). A competitive achievement effect was found for females, with athletes being defeated in the eliminatory phases being younger than those advancing further in the competitions (p < 0.05). Significant associations (p < 0.05) were shown between competition year and age category for males at the WC and for females at both the WC and OG. In general, lighter athletes are younger than heavier ones (p < 0.05). No difference in age was found  between males concerning their competitive achievement in WC and OG, whereas younger females are defeated in the eliminatory phases (p < 0.05).

Effects of Different Fatigue Levels on Physiological Responses and Pacing in Judo Matches

Franchini, E, Takito, MY, Alves, ED, Shiroma, SA, Julio, UF, and Humberstone, C. Effects of different fatigue levels on physiological responses and pacing in judo matches. J Strength Cond Res 33(3): 783-792, 2019-The objective of this study was to compare athletes' pacing during judo match simulation between different fatigue states. Twelve judo athletes (30.2 ± 3.2 years old, 85.6 ± 10.8 kg, 181.0 ± 5.7 cm, 19 ± 7 years of judo experience) completed three 4-minute matches against the same opponents, at 15-minute intervals in 3 different conditions: after warm-up (Control; C); after a regular training session (totaling 90 minutes); after a high-intensity interval exercise (2 blocks of 10 sets of 20-second all-out uchi-komi, with 10-second interval between sets and 5-minute interval between blocks). All matches were mediated according to the official rules, filmed, and analyzed concerning: rating of perceived recovery (RPR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), heart rate (before and after match), blood lactate concentrations [La] before, peak after match and delta (peak minus the prematch values), and time-motion measures (frequencies and durations of actions). Time-motion measures included athlete displacement without contact, gripping, attack, feint, groundwork combat, pauses, and high- to low-intensity effort ratio. The experimental conditions resulted in different physiological and perceived responses prematch (HR, [La], RPR) and postmatch simulations (HR and [La]peak), with no change in RPE and few changes in technical variables. There was a decrease in grip dispute time, and increase in time of displacement without contact. These technical changes were enough to preserve the pace during the matches, which seemed to be controlled by the athletes to maintain their number of attacks, feints, and RPE.

Criterion Validity, Reliability and Usefulness of a Judo-Specific Maximal Aerobic Power Test

PURPOSE

To evaluate criterion validity, reliability and usefulness of a test to measure maximal aerobic power using judo-specific movements (UK_test).

METHODS

12 judokas performed five graded exercise tests (GETs) in 4 sessions. In sessions 1 and 2, upper-body (UB_test), lower-body (LB_test) and familiarization UK_test. GETs were randomly performed and separated by at least 48 hours. In sessions 3 and 4, test and retest UK_test were performed (7-day apart). For all GETs, peak oxygen consumption (V̇O_2peak), maximal heart rate (HR_max), peak blood lactate concentration ([Lapeak]), maximal aerobic intensity and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were determined. Another group of 12 judokas performed the UK_test and one confirmation test (20-min after the UK_test), at 105% of maximal aerobic speed (MAS) until exhaustion, to confirm if maximal responses were achieved.

RESULTS

V̇O_2peak did not differ (P>.05) between UK_test (46.04±5.34 mL.kg^-1.min^-1) and LB_test (44.78±5.98 mL.kg^-1.min^-1), but was higher (P<.05) than UB_test (37.03±7.16 mL.kg^-1.min^-1). Total duration (551±60s) and [Lapeak] (7.10±1.76 mmol.L^-1) in the UK_test were different (P<.05) from UB_test (416±47s, 9.93±2.15 mmol.L^-1, respectively) and LB_test (433±54s, 10.29±2.23 mmol.L^-1, respectively). Very large relationships between V̇O_2peak in UK_test with UB_test (r=0.78, P=.003) and LB_test (r=0.87, P<.001) were found. Maximal values were achieved for the UK_test V̇O_2peak, HR_max, [Lapeak], RPE and MAS, with no difference between test and retest (P>.05). In addition, very large intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for the V̇O_2peak (ICC=0.86), HR_max (ICC=0.90) and MAS (ICC=0.81) were found.

CONCLUSIONS

UK_test can be considered a valid, reliable and useful test to measure maximal aerobic power using judo-specific movements.

Upper-body Wingate test classificatory table for adult judo athletes

The aims of this study were to compare the upper-body Wingate test performance of judo athletes from different weight categories and to create a classificatory table for this test. A total of 179 judo athletes performed an upper-body Wingate test, following standardized recommendations (30-sec duration, and a load equivalent to 0.06 kg/kg of body mass). Absolute and relative peak power (PP) and mean power (MP) were determined. Weight categories were compared through a one-way analysis of variance, followed by Tukey test. The effect size was determined by partial eta squared. There was a large effect of weight category in absolute PP and MP, with lower values for the lighter categories (P<0.05), but it is important to note that absolute PP and MP did not differ (P>0.05) between subsequent weight categories. Moreover, when the relative PP and MP were considered, no significant differences were found (P>0.05). The higher values of PP and MP achieved by heavier judo athletes compared to lighter ones during the upper-body Wingate test is likely related to the higher total muscle mass presented by the first group compared to the later. Indeed, judo athletes from different weight category presented similar relative PP and MP, likely due to the judo training demands as well as consequence of a selection of athletes with the higher potential to develop upper-body anaerobic fitness. Finally, the normative classificatory table created may be useful as a reference in judo athletes’ anaerobic evaluation.

Performance Changes of Elite Paralympic Judo Athletes During a Paralympic Games Cycle: A Case Study with the Brazilian National Team

The aim of this study was to describe the variations in power performance of elite Paralympic judo athletes across three consecutive training cycles of preparation for the ParaPan American Games, the World Championship and the Paralympic Games. Eleven Paralympic judokas from the Brazilian National team participated in this study. They were repeatedly assessed using squat and countermovement jumps, mean propulsive power (MPP) in the jump-squat (JS), the bench press and prone bench pull at several moments of the preparation. Training supervision based on the optimum power zone (range of loads where power production is maximized) was provided in the final cycle, prior to the Paralympic Games. Magnitude-based inference was used to compare the repeated measurements of power performance. Lower and upper limb muscle power gradually increased throughout the cycles; however, the best results in all exercises were observed prior to the Paralympic Games, during which the team won four silver medals. As an illustration, prior to participation in the Paralympic Games the MPP in the JS was likely to very likely higher than prior to the World Championship (effect size [ES] = 0.77) and ParaPan American Games (ES = 0.53), and in January and March 2016 (ES = 0.98 and 0.92, respectively; months preceding the Paralympic Games). Power performance assessments can provide information about the evolution of Paralympic judokas, and training at the optimum power zone seems to constitute an effective method to improve lower and upper limb power in these athletes.

Be seeded or not be seeded? A study with Olympic judo athletes

The main purpose of the present study was to calculate the probability-based on a Bayesian approach-to win a medal in the Olympic Games given the athlete is seeded and to verify if the number one ranked athlete has any advantage compared to other seeded athletes concerning his/her chances to be Olympic champion. For this, data from athletes who took part in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games were considered. For males the probability of seeded athletes to win a medal was 41.1% and 42.9%, while for females it was 35.7% and 44.6% at London 2012 and Rio 2016, respectively. Furthermore, the probability of athletes ranked as number one to become Olympic champion among the seeded athletes was 19.5% and 36.8% for males and 32.3% and 36.8% for females in London 2012 and Rio 2016, respectively. Based on these results the cost-benefit of investing human and financial resources to qualify an athletes among the top eight competitors and his/her exposure to competitions-resulting in technical-tactical analysis of the opponent and higher risk of injury-should be carefully analyzed when determining the competition calendar to each athlete.

Monitoring internal training load and salivary immune-endocrine responses during an annual judo training periodization

The objective of this study was to examine the internal training load (TL), IgA, and salivary steroid hormone responses in elite youth judo athletes during an entire annual training periodization. Ten male judo athletes (18±2 years, 72.3±12.3 kg, and 175±6 cm) competing at a state/national level were examined for the TL and salivary imune-endocrine responses variations over an annual judo season, divided in three macrocyles composed by distinct periods denominated preparatory period (PP), competitive period (CP) and transition period (TP). At the end of PP and CP, saliva samples were collected to determine cortisol, testosterone and IgA concentrations. Throughout PP and CP the session-rating of perceived exertion and the total duration of each session were monitored, allowing the internal TL and weekly training strain (TS) calculation. During all macrocycles, significant decreases in TL and TS were observed during CP compared with PP (P<0.05), although no significant differences were observed for immune-endocrine concentrations between PP and CP (P>0.05). Specific variations were observed comparing periods with similar characteristics throughout the macrocycles as higher TL and TS (PP1 to PP2 and PP3, P<0.05), increased testosterone (CP1 to CP3, P=0.024) and decreased testosterone-cortisol ratio (PP1 to PP2, P=0.005). The present findings suggest that the internal TL variations over an annual multipeak traditional periodization did not influence the resting mucosal immune-endocrinal responses in young judo athletes.

Strength-Power Performance of Visually Impaired Paralympic and Olympic Judo Athletes From the Brazilian National Team: A Comparative Study

Loturco, I, Nakamura, FY, Winckler, C, Bragança, JR, da Fonseca, RA, Filho, JM, Zaccani, WA, Kobal, R, Cal Abad, CC, Kitamura, K, Pereira, LA, and Franchini, E. Strength-power performance of visually impaired paralympic and olympic judo athletes from the brazilian national team: a comparative study. J Strength Cond Res 31(3): 743-749, 2017-The aim of this study was to compare the muscle power and maximal isometric strength capacities of Olympic and visually impaired Paralympic judo athletes. Twenty-eight elite judo athletes (7 men and 7 women per group) from the permanent Brazilian National Paralympic and Olympic teams took part in this study. After a specific warm-up, the athletes performed loaded jump squat (JS), bench press (BP), and standing barbell row (SBR) exercises to determine their values of maximum mean propulsive power (MPP) in these respective exercises. The maximal isometric strength (MIS) was also determined for both upper and lower limbs, through the use of BP and half-squat (HS) exercises. Finally, the jumping ability was assessed using unloaded squat jump (SJ). The magnitude-based inference was used to compare the groups. The Olympic judo athletes presented a likely higher SJ height than the Paralympic athletes. The Olympic group presented almost certainly higher MPP in the loaded JS and in the SBR exercises and likely higher MPP in the BP exercise. Importantly, in the MIS assessments the differences between groups in the HS and BP exercises were rated as unclear. In conclusion, our results showed that both Olympic and Paralympic judo athletes present similar levels of maximal isometric strength, but muscle power performance is superior in Olympic athletes.

High-Intensity Intermittent Training Positively Affects Aerobic and Anaerobic Performance in Judo Athletes Independently of Exercise Mode

Purpose: The present study investigated the effects of high-intensity intermittent training (HIIT) on lower- and upper-body graded exercise and high-intensity intermittent exercise (HIIE, four Wingate bouts) performance, and on physiological and muscle damage markers responses in judo athletes.

Methods: Thirty-five subjects were randomly allocated to a control group (n = 8) or to one of the following HIIT groups (n = 9 for each) and tested pre- and post-four weeks (2 training d·wk⁻¹): (1) lower-body cycle-ergometer; (2) upper-body cycle-ergometer; (3) uchi-komi (judo technique entrance). All HIIT were constituted by two blocks of 10 sets of 20 s of all out effort interspersed by 10 s set intervals and 5-min between blocks.

Results: For the upper-body group there was an increase in maximal aerobic power in graded upper-body exercise test (12.3%). The lower-body group increased power at onset blood lactate in graded upper-body exercise test (22.1%). The uchi-komi group increased peak power in upper- (16.7%) and lower-body (8.5%), while the lower-body group increased lower-body mean power (14.2%) during the HIIE. There was a decrease in the delta blood lactate for the uchi-komi training group and in the third and fourth bouts for the upper-body training group. Training induced testosterone-cortisol ratio increased in the lower-body HIIE for the lower-body (14.9%) and uchi-komi (61.4%) training groups.

Conclusion: Thus, short-duration low-volume HIIT added to regular judo training was able to increase upper-body aerobic power, lower- and upper-body HIIE performance.

Content Validation of a Catalog of Exercises for Judo

This study aimed to assess the content validity of a catalog of 76 judo exercises. Two groups of raters comprising 16 judo experts evaluated the following content validity indicators: Clarity of Language, Practical Pertinence, Theoretical Relevance, and the Dimension of each exercise. The results confirmed the content validity of the judo training catalog with indicators showing scores greater than 0.80. These findings suggest that all 76 judo exercises are pertinent, representative of judo training and understandable for judo coaches. Thus, this catalog of judo exercises may help judo coaches in the selection and recording of exercises.

Influence of linear and undulating strength periodization on physical fitness, physiological, and performance responses to simulated judo matches

To determine the most effective strength periodization model is important to improve judo athletes' performance. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the effects of linear and daily undulating periodized resistance training on anthropometrical, strength, and judo-specific performance. For this, 13 adult male judo athletes (LP = 6 and DUP = 7) completed a 8-week training program concomitantly to a typical judo training program. Athletes were submitted to a physical fitness test battery, before and after 8 weeks of training, consisting of: (a) maximal strength evaluation: bench press, squat, and row exercises 1 repetition maximum (1RM) tests, and handgrip maximal isometric strength; (b) power evaluation: standing long jump test; (c) strength endurance evaluation: dynamic and isometric chin-up tests gripping the judogi; (d) anthropometry measurements: body mass, height, skinfold thickness and circumferences; (e) judo-specific fitness: performance during the Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT); (f) match simulation: three 5-minute judo match simulations separated by 15-minute passive recovery. Eight weeks of linear and undulating strength training protocols induced similar significant (P ≤ 0.05) decreases in skinfold thicknesses (-6.5%) and increases in flexed arm (2.0%) and forearm (1.8%) circumferences, maximal isometric handgrip strength (4.6% and 6.1% for right and left hands, respectively), isometric strength endurance chin-up performance gripping the judogi (18.9%), maximal dynamic strength for row (11.5%), bench press (11.6%) and squat exercises (7.1%), total weight lifted at 70% 1RM for bench press (15.1%) and squat (9.6%) exercises, number of throws during sets B (3.1%) and C (9.5%) of the SJFT (resulting in increased total number of throws, 5.5%), and decreased index in this test, -4.2%). However, no changes were observed in the physiological, rating of perceived exertion, or technical actions during 3 match simulations. Thus, it seems that the short-term adaptations were not transferable to the match condition.