Cardiorespiratory Responses and Energy Contribution in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Exercise Sets

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aimed to describe cardiorespiratory responses and energy contribution in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) sets, performed all-out, with different durations. Participants were ten male athletes (purple-black belt), aged 26.9 ± 5.8 yrs. They underwent maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O2MAX) and time-to-exhaustion tests. BJJ sets were evaluated under different modes (armbar, takedown, guard pass) and durations (30, 60, 90s). V̇O2 was continuously measured during exercise and recovery. BJJ sets were performed at moderate-high aerobic intensities (62.3–87.7%V̇O2MAX) at 60 and 90s, for all modes (p ≤ 0.05). V̇O2PEAK (mL/kg−1/min−1) during BJJ sets was elevated from 30 to 60s, as follows: armbar 24.6 ± 4.6 vs.35.5 ± 7.0; takedown 32.5 ± 4.4 vs. 43.9 ± 7.7; and guard pass 35.4 ± 8.3 vs. 45.9 ± 8.4. There was no difference between 60 and 90s. Mean values of V̇O2 (V̇O2AER) and V̇O2TOTAL (V̇O2AER+V̇O2EPOC) increased with the duration of the BJJ sets, in accordance with increased total energy expenditure and aerobic contribution (Kcal-AER). No differences were found for V̇O2EPOC, and alactic contribution (Kcal-ALAC) was not affected by either mode or duration. In conclusion, augmenting the duration of BJJ sets increased exercise intensity, V̇O2TOTAL and energy expenditure, which was mainly driven by increases in aerobic contribution.