An innovative approach to the physical fitness of 10–12-year-old Armenian judokas: high-intensity functional training and results

Purpose Sports success depends on innovative training methods. High-intensity functional training (HIFT) incorporates weightlifting, gymnastics, aerobics, and other sports elements. Due to its innovative methodology, HIFT has gained considerable popularity. This research aimed to test the effectiveness of a HIFT-based program among 10–12-year-old judokas. Methods Twenty male participants (11 ± 0.64 years) were randomly assigned to either HIFT (experimental, n = 10) or traditional training (control, n = 10) groups for 40 weeks. Fitness and judo-specific skill testing (i.e., O Soto Gari and O Goshi throws) occurred pre-, mid-, and post-intervention. HIFT was implemented twice weekly for 15–20 min. The control group completed traditional physical fitness training. The training load was matched across groups. Results Both groups improved in pull-ups, long jumps, shuttle runs, 800-metre runs, leg raises, and judo throws. The experimental group improved significantly more on pull-ups (7.6 ± 5.6, <i>p</i> = 0.024), push-ups (20.3 ± 4.2, <i>p</i> = 0.001), squats (63 ± 8.8, <i>p</i> < 0.001), leg raises (13.3 ± 8.0, p < 0.001), burpees (13.2 ± 1.3, <i>p</i> = 0.007), and throws (O Soto Gari 19.71 ± 0.90, <i>p</i> = 0.033, O Goshi 20.61 ± 0.86, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Conclusions HIFT may improve the fitness and judo-specific skills of 10–12-year-old judokas while not negatively reflecting on the performance quality of basic techniques of judokas.