The functional evaluation of lower limb symmetry in a group of young elite judo and wrestling athletes

Abstract

Introduction: This project proposes the inclusion of functional assessment as an essential branch of a training program applied to a group of young elite judo and wrestling athletes to investigate for possible asymmetries of lower limbs, a potential cause for future injuries. Methods: AgroupofyoungmaleeliteSardinianjudoandwrestlingathleteswasrandomlyselectedandwerefunctionallyevaluated with three different tests. Strength and balance abilities were measured while muscle power was assessed by measuring jump height, flight time and maximum contraction speed. Subjects were compared according to their right and left leg performance. Results: Generally, no significant bilateral difference were indicated for any of the applied tests, between right and left legs in all considered parameters concerning the three utilized tests, with the exception of peak torque values of the knee extensors. Conclusion: This study indicates that judokas are distinguished by general bilateral symmetry in certain functions. This should serve as an important guideline for both clinicians and coaches.