Abstract
Although current physical activity (PA) guidelines regarding aerobic and anaerobic training are helpful for the population at large, many individuals prefer to engage in alternative forms of PA such as combat sports. As both a martial art and sport, judo is a physically demanding form of PA that potentially offers a novel experience, consequently leading to greater PA adherence. This study aimed to thoroughly search the existing literature to determine the health benefits of judo-specific training. PubMed and Web of Science were searched for original research studies. Only peer-reviewed studies that examined the effects of judo training in males and females aged 18–35 were included in the study. Out of 507 potentially relevant studies, 84 studies met our inclusion criteria and were further analyzed. Data showed that judo athletes and recreational judo practitioners show above-average VO2max, improved body composition, increased bone mineral density, and bone mineral content. Judo is associated with a sequence of adaptations in cardiac structure, function, and blood pressure changes. More research is needed to discover if these changes are maladaptive.
Highlights
Being physically active is widely accepted as an effective way to promote health and prevent an incredible spectrum of health risk factors within all age, gender, ethnic, and socioeconomic subgroups [1]
Despite the well-documented benefits associated with sustained physical activity (PA) [1], recent evidence shows that levels of PA in different populations remain relatively low, creating an environment that further exacerbates the obesity epidemic present on a global scale [3]
bone mineral content (BMC) was higher in judokas only compared to the control group (p < 0.05)
Summary
Being physically active is widely accepted as an effective way to promote health and prevent an incredible spectrum of health risk factors within all age, gender, ethnic, and socioeconomic subgroups [1]. According to the World Health Organization, “health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity [2].”. Based on the ever-growing evidence of beneficial impacts of regular physical activity (PA) on overall health, it is undeniable that PA is one of the key pillars of good health and longevity in humans. It is critical to identify approaches to alleviate the inactivity crisis, which will bring about an increase in intentional PA and a decrease in sedentary pursuits in the overall population.
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