The Effect of Core Training Practices on Some Strength, Lower Limb Functions and Balance Performance in Judo Athletes

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of core training on some strength, lower extremity functions, and balance performances in judoka. The study was based on a two-group pretest-posttest experimental design with repeated measures. The study included 12 female (F) judo athletes aged 12-18 years and 10 male (M) judo athletes aged 12-17 years. Three measurements for core strength (push-ups, planks, sit-ups), six different single leg hop tests (SLHT) for lower extremity muscle strength and YBT for balance were performed before and after 6-week core training. Shapiro-Wilk, Levene, and Paired sample t-tests were used in statistical analyses. The increases in limb symmetry index (LSI) scores were remarkable. When the push-up and plank times and sit-up scores of F and M participants were compared with the pre-test, a significant increase was observed in favor of the post-test. When we examined the dominant (D) leg hop for distance, we found that M and F judoka's SL<inf>D</inf>, TH<inf>D</inf>, MSTH<inf>D</inf>, MRH<inf>D</inf>, and CH<inf>D</inf> post-test scores all increased (except F; CH<inf>D</inf>) and also M and F showed better performance in SL6M<inf>D</inf>. Similar performance outputs were seen in the non-dominant (ND) leg hop for distance measurements (only not changed F; TH<inf>ND</inf>). Finally, it was valuable to note that both right and left leg YBT scores showed a considerable rise in the post-test assessments. As a result, core exercise practices may improve the sit-up score by improving the time in push-ups and planks in judoka. In addition, it may improve balance performance by affecting lower extremity functions. © The Author(s) 2023.