Body composition of young judokas in a sports initiation program

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the body composition of young judo players in a sports initiation program, providing data that could be useful for coaches and sports professionals in the design of more effective and personalized programs.

Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out. The sample consisted of 30 students from the Nippi Judo Club Lima, Peru (15 men and 15 women). The age range is 12 to 15 years old. The club is located at C. Simón Condori 264, Pueblo Libre 15083. Anthropometric measurements of weight and height were evaluated. Body mass index (BMI), fat %, fat mass and fat-free mass were calculated by anthropometry. Maturity status (APHV) was determined by means of a regression equation.

Results: Males had a mean age of 13.2±0.7 years and females 12.87±0.8 years. In males, relationships between body composition indicators with age ranged % fat r=-0.28, Fat mass R= -0.39 and R= Free mass = 0.60. In females, for example, %fat R= -0.74, Fat mass R= -0.89 and Fat free mass R= 0.87. Correlations with maturity status (APHV) were higher in males and slightly similar in females.

Conclusion: the state of biological maturity has a significant and positive relationship with fat-free mass in young judokas, surpassing in importance the chronological age. In contrast, the association with fat mass is much lower. These results emphasize the relevance of biological maturity in physical development and performance, suggesting the need for a personalized approach in the preparation of judo athletes.