Longitudinal development and physical performance in young judo athletes: The influence of maturation and training

This longitudinal study examined how biological maturation and judo training influence body size, composition, and physical performance in young male and female judo athletes over a 10-month period. Twenty-three Brazilian judo athletes aged 12-17 participated, with measurements taken at baseline, 5 and 10 months. Athletes underwent body size and composition assessments, as well as physical tests, including handgrip strength (HGS), standing long jump (SLJ), medicine ball throw (MBT), and judo-specific evaluations. A repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted to assess changes over time, considering anthropometric and physical performance variables with a significant level set at p < 0.05. Main results showed significant changes in body size variables (p < 0.001) and physical performance over time (p = 0.004 - p < 0.001). In general, most gains in physical performance were attributed to maturational development in young judo athletes. By tracking growth spurts and changes in body composition, coaches can make more informed decisions when identifying talent and adjusting training programs.