The level of special fitness among Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, Gi formula, takedown zone – analysis of the effectiveness of SJFT flow across disciplines

Abstract

Background: For combat sports athletes, the best test of technical competence and specialized physical fitness is the body's response to the specific effort required in sports confrontation. The aim of this study was twofold. Firstly, to assess the level of specialized fitness in the context of stand-up fighting among Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) athletes. Secondly, to evaluate the effectiveness of the Special Jiu-Jitsu Fitness Test (SJFT) for the discipline of BJJ. Methods: The study involved 22 competitively trained BJJ athletes (age years: 26.66 5.02; Height: 174.25 4.62 cm; Weight: 75.17 7.22 kg; BMI: 24.77 2.44; 6.41 2.65 years of training). Measurements of basic somatic characteristics were performed. Training experience (TE) was diagnosed, and a coaching ranking (CSR) of the participants was developed based on their sports achievements. The participants' specialized fitness was assessed using the Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT). Test parameters were recorded, and an Index illustrating multidimensional special endurance was calculated according to a specialized formula. Comparative analyses were conducted using statistical procedures to compare selected research results with literature findings from other authors and normative values. Additionally, the relationship between SJFT, TE, and CSR was examined, ultimately evaluating the effectiveness of SJFT in relation to the BJJ discipline. The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: In the course of the analysis, statistically significant strong negative correlations were found between the sum of heart rate measurements (SHR) and TE and CSR (R= -0.69, -0.77; p<0.001). The sum of throws (SR) and Indices correlated weakly to moderately with CSR and TE, showing both positive and negative directions. The groups of participants from our study and those from other authors clearly differed in SR and Indices (p>0.001, d= 2.46 and 2.31), in favor of Judo representatives. To the least significant extent, their heart rate variables (HR max - measurement after the trial; HR 1min. - after 1 minute from the end; SHR - sum of measurements) differentiated them. Results of SJFT variables from our study, positioned within the reference norms of senior Judokas, exhibited a regular level concerning HR max and HR 1min., and a very poor level for SR and Indices. Conclusions: The spatial format and the course of physiological mechanisms of the body during the execution of the trial reflect key moments of gaining advantage over the opponent and are consistent with the nature of combat in this discipline. Additionally, the trial promotes performance in field conditions. Based on the obtained results, validation procedures should be conducted in the field of technical and locomotor planes to modify or construct a new specific diagnostic tool for BJJ.