Strength, Power and Anaerobic Capacities of Male Judo Athletes across Age and Competitive Levels

Purpose: This cross-sectional study evaluated the physiological profiles of judo athletes across age and competitive levels, aiming to identify key physiological determinants of judo success. Methods: Thirty-eight judokas from three age/competitive levels (cadet + junior, non-Olympic senior, and Olympic senior), spanning various weight classes and ages, were assessed for strength, power, and anaerobic qualities. Performance tests included countermovement jump, drop jump, maximal grip strength, and upper body Wingate anaerobic test (WIN) and results were normalized to body mass. Strength values were obtained from the athletes’ self-reported training programs and normalized to competition weight class. Comparisons of the physical measures were made across age/competitive levels and a qualitative evaluation based on success in national vs. international competitions was made within the groups. Results: Significant differences in absolute values were observed between age/competitive level groups; however, most differences disappeared after normalization. The only persistent differences were in relative WIN peak power and relative WIN mean power, which were greater for the senior athletes compared with the cadet + junior group. No significant differences were found between quality levels within the groups. Conclusion: In the within-group analysis, it was not possible to differentiate high vs. low quality level male judo athletes in our cohort. When comparing the three groups, only relative WIN peak and relative mean power were significantly different between groups while other measures lost significance when normalized. This strengthens the notion that anaerobic power and capacity are relevant to judo success.