Achieving optimal physical fitness and health safety in 19-21 year old judo athletes

Background and Study Aim. Physical fitness is crucial for the success of athletes in competitive sports. However, often the impact of physical exertion on athlete health is overlooked. The study aims to investigate the relationship between the level of physical fitness and competitive performance of judokas aged 19-21. Material and Methods. Judo athletes (n=30) participated in the study. The study used video recordings of competitive bouts of 30 judokas aged 19-21 in different weight categories. The athletes were tested for various physical fitness indicators, including strength endurance, coordination abilities, speed-strength abilities, endurance, speed abilities, and flexibility. The SPSS 22 program was used to conduct correlation analysis. Results. The study showed that throws Ippon Seoi Nage, Seoi Otoshi, Kо soto Gake, O Uchi Gari and Ko uchi gar, Ko Soto Gari were the most commonly used techniques across all weight categories. Lighter weight categories favored a throw over the head (Sumi Gaeshi, Tomoe Nage) with an emphasis on speed and coordination, while heavier weight categories favored bending throws (Ura nage) that required strength and flexibility. Conclusions. Based on the study findings, a list of recommended technical judo techniques for each weight category has been proposed. These recommended techniques are closely related to the athletes' level of physical fitness, and coaches can use them to optimize training programs for young judokas.