Effects of high-intensity calisthenics training on neuromuscular performance, change of direction ability, and dynamic balance in adolescent judokas

The aim was to investigate the effects of high-intensity calisthenics training (HCT) on the neuromuscular performance, change of direction ability, and dynamic balance of adolescent judokas. Methods: This study used a controlled experimental design that included pre- and post-test measurements. Twenty-two judokas (age 12.54 years, height 1.46 m, weight 42.54 kg and body mass index (BMI) 19.77 kg/m²) voluntarily participated in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to either a control group (CG) or an experimental group (EG). While the CG group continued with routine judo training, the EG group underwent HCT training for 8 weeks in addition to routine judo training. Participants performed the T Agility Test (T-test), 20 m. Sprint Test, Standing Long Jump Test (SLJ), Vertical Jump Test (VJ), Y Balance Test (YBT), and 5 different single-leg hop tests (SLHT) [single-leg hop for distance (SH), triple-leg hop for distance (TH), crossover hop for distance (CH), medial side triple hop for distance (MSTH), and 90° medial rotation hop for distance (MRH)] tests for pre- and post-test measurements. Results: The results of the intra-group comparison of SLHT data before and after intervention showed significant differences in both groups in the SH, TH, MSTH, and MRH tests on the right and left sides (p0.05). The results of both within-group and between-group comparisons in the 20-meter sprint, T-test, SLJ, and VJ tests showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Additionally, the results of the within-group comparisons in the YBT test showed that there were significant differences in the ANT data in both groups, in the PL data only in the EG group, and in the PM data on the left side only in the EG group (p0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, high-intensity calisthenic exercises incorporated into traditional judo training led to within-group improvements in the experimental group’s dynamic balance performance and single-leg jumping ability. However, since the group × time interaction was not found to be significant in between-group comparisons, the observed improvement cannot be attributed solely to calisthenic exercises. Therefore, future studies with larger sample sizes and longer intervention periods are recommended. Additionally, coaches and athletes may consider integrating calisthenic exercises into training programs to support strength development and performance enhancement.