Acute and delayed effects of Ramadan intermittent fasting on the postural control of elite judokas: focus on mobility and dynamic balance performance

Abstract Background Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF) induces significant physiologic changes, including alterations in sleep patterns, energy intake, and hydration status, which may affect athletic performance. Given the importance of postural control in judo, understanding the impact of RIF on mobility and dynamic balance is crucial for optimizing performance and injury prevention. Purpose This study aimed to investigate the acute and delayed effects of RIF on postural control in elite judokas, with a specific focus on mobility and dynamic balance performance . Methods Ten elite judokas (23.5 ± 2.3 years, 172.6 ± 7.4 cm, and 71.6 ± 3.9 kg) completed three morning test sessions assessing postural mobility and dynamic balance using the walk across (WA) and limit of stability (LoS) tests. Assessments were conducted before Ramadan (BR), during the third week of fasting (DR), and 3 weeks after Ramadan (AR). Anthropometric measures and daily energy intake were also recorded. Results Significant reductions in total daily energy intake, body mass, and body mass index were observed at DR compared to BR and AR ( p < 0.05). In the WA test, step length, and movement speed significantly decreased during DR ( p < 0.001), while step width remained unchanged. In the LoS test, reaction time and sway velocity increased ( p < 0.001), while directional control decreased ( p < 0.001) at DR compared to BR and AR. No significant differences were found for maximum excursion across conditions. Conclusion RIF transiently impaired both mobility and dynamic postural control in elite judokas, likely due to a combination of sleep disturbances, reduced energy intake, and dehydration. These impairments resolved 3 weeks after Ramadan. Coaches and athletes should consider targeted nutritional and sleep strategies to mitigate these temporary declines in postural stability during fasting periods.