Influence of weight reduction on physical performance capacity in judokas

Summary Introduction. Physical performance capacity in judokas was investigated before and after weight reduction. Material and methods. Twenty-two judokas volunteered to take part in the experiment and were tested before and after weight reduction. Body weight and body fat percentage was measured before and after weight reduction. Food intake before and during the weight reduction period was recorded. Reaction time was measured by means of a jump test, using the Optojump system (Microgate – Italy). Isometric arm strength was measured by tensiometry using a 40 seconds procedure. Anaerobic en durance was tested using a repeated jumping procedure. Results. After the experimental procedures subjects were divided in a high weight reduction group (≥3% BW, n=11) and a light weight reduction group (<3% BW, n=11). In the high weight reduction group (HWRG) body weight changed from 72.0± 12.3 kg to 69.0±11.8 kg, (p<0.001). In the light weight reduction group (LWRG) body weight changed from 66.6±8.6 to 65.7±8.4 kg, (p=0.001). Both groups showed very low carbohydrate intakes during the weight reduction period. Reaction time improved in one out of the three reaction tests for the HWRG (p<0.05). In the HWRG total isometric strength and isometric strength as measured during the 2 nd maximal effort of the 40 s procedure, decreased significantly (p<0.05).