The impact of judo training on the morphofunctional state and physical fitness of healthy adolescents

OBJECTIVE: Aim: The aim is to investigate the impact of an experimental judo training program on the morphofunctional state and physical fitness of healthy adolescents. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: The study involved 54 male adolescents aged 16-17, who were divided into an experimental group (EG, n=27) and a control group (CG, n=27). The morphofunctional state of the students was evaluated based on the indicators of muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory system activities, while physical fitness was assessed using physical education tests. RESULTS: Results: It was found that during the experiment, adolescents' morphofunctional state and physical fitness indicators improved in both groups. However, in the EG, the difference between the initial and final data was significant (p 0.05). Moreover, at the end of the experiment, all the studied indicators in the EG were significantly better than in the CG. The most pronounced impact of judo training was observed on the strength index, Ruffier index, Stange index, Genchi index, Robinson index, and the results in the long jump, pull-ups, push-ups, and trunk lifts. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: It was proven that extracurricular judo training sessions, provided that adolescents consciously choose the sport and are motivated to participate, as well as the rational planning of training sessions, are more effective compared to traditional physical education lessons in high school for improving the morphofunctional state and physical fitness of healthy adolescents. The high level of the studied indicators in adolescents will enhance their health and improve their future educational and professional activities.