Years of judo formal training improves shoulder isokinetic torque, muscle balance in shoulder rotations muscles and vertical jump performance

This study aimed to identify if the judo-specific training improve neuromuscular capacities in upper and lower limbs, by comparing novice and advanced judo athletes. Eighteen male judo athletes were divided according to training practice: < 10 years and ≥ 10 years. Participants performed one set of four maximal repetitions of shoulder external and internal rotation on an isokinetic dynamometer in concentric/concentric mode at 180°/s. Later, squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ) were performed on a piezoelectric force platform. The jump height of CMJ and SJ, peak torque and mechanical work of shoulder internal and external rotation, and the ratio between the torques (ER:IR) were analyzed. We found that the years of formal training are predictors to improve the muscle power in lower limbs and strength in shoulder rotations muscles, besides presents a positive effect in muscle balance in shoulder rotation muscles.