Acute Effects of Moderate and Maximal Squat Loading on Ju-do-Specific Performance in Elite Judokas

This study will examine the acute effects of two different squat-based post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols on judo-specific performance in elite male judokas. The purpose is to identify an optimal loading strategy that enhances performance without inducing excessive fatigue, which is critical for pre-competition preparation in combat sports.

A total of 20 male judokas with at least two years of competitive experience at the national level will be recruited. Participants will undergo three different warm-up conditions in a randomized, counterbalanced order over a 3-week period:

A standard warm-up (SWU) based on typical judo routines

A moderate-load PAPE warm-up (80% of 6-repetition maximum)

A maximal-load PAPE warm-up (100% of 1-repetition maximum)

Each warm-up session will last approximately 25 minutes. After each warm-up, participants will perform the Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT), which assesses anaerobic capacity, throwing ability, and recovery. Outcome measures will include the number of total throws, immediate and 1-minute post-test heart rate, and the SJFT performance index.

It is expected that the moderate-load (80%) PAPE protocol will yield the greatest improvements in judo-specific performance, offering a better balance between muscle potentiation and fatigue than the maximal-load (100%) or standard warm-up conditions. These findings will inform practical warm-up strategies for combat sport athletes aiming to enhance performance immediately before competition.

Inclusion criteria

• Male judokas aged 18-25 years
• Minimum of 2 years of continuous judo training experience
• Active participation in national-level judo competitions
• Free from injury for at least 6 months prior to the study
• Able to perform high-intensity resistance and sport-specific exercises
• Willing to participate and provide informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Current musculoskeletal injury or medical condition affecting performance
• History of surgery within the last 6 months
• Cardiovascular, respiratory, or neurological conditions contraindicating intense physical activity
• Use of medications that affect muscle performance or recovery
• Participation in other performance-enhancement or warm-up research studies during the study period
• Inability to follow study instructions or complete testing protocols