Maximal Isometric Handgrip Strength (HGS) in Greek Elite Male Judo and Karate Athletes

Abstract

Abstract The specificity of the technical performance in judo and karate demands from athletes to perform fast and powerful actions at a high level, therefore, much importance is given to the development and supporting motor system, in particular, HGS function. Research aim was to determine the characteristic of maximal isometric HGS in Greek elite male judo and karate kumite athletes that may be important for competitive success in the aspect of age and BMI and identify any differences between these two compact sports. The studies were carried out in the competitive period of 2015 training cycles. The subjects were male judokas with mean weight 84.24 ± 12.38 kg and karateka’s 76.63 ± 10.46 kg. Average BMI (kg/m2) for judokas 25.67± 3.60 and karateka’s 23.03 ± 1.75. Research results showed that the HGS in dominant and nondominant hand in karateka’s was 68.28 ± 7.3 kg and 63.28 ± 7.5 kg and in judokas 73.72 ± 7.85 kg and 71.34 ± 8.10 kg. karateka’s had significant less stronger HGS compered to Judokas in dominant and nondominant hand, t32= -2.089 and p<0.05 and t32= -3.016 and p<0.05. Karateka’s had significant higher differences between the two hands 4.94 ± 2.15 kg compered to judokas 2.38 ± 1.84 kg, t32= 3.722 and p<0.05. The two groups had significant difference in BMI, t32= -2,771 and p<0.05. Pearson correlation showed a significant correlation between HGS and BMI, r=0.563 and p<0.05. In conclusion judo and karate have different requirements and training methods due to the objectives and generally the technical training nature with judokas appearing stronger in the HGS compere to karateka’s.