Benefits of judo training for kids, youth, seniors, and older adults based on a scientific approach: a brief review

Abstract

The aim of this review is to comprehensively evaluate the effects of judo training on physical fitness, motor development, neurodevelopment, cognitive and executive functions, mental health, fall prevention, and quality of life in different age and specific populations. The article synthesizes findings from a total of 36 studies and systematic reviews focusing on the effects of judo training in children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, including populations with specific needs. The available evidence consistently shows the beneficial effects of judo on muscle strength, endurance, flexibility, coordination, balance, cardiovascular fitness, and bone health. In children, judo training improved motor and neurodevelopment through complex sensory-motor stimulation and promoted the inhibition of persistent primitive reflexes. Furthermore, judo training increases bone mineral density in weight-bearing areas across the age groups studied. Other studies have shown improvements in reaction inhibition, working memory, and attention in children, as well as improvements in executive functions and increased peripheral BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in older adults. Judo training also has a significant impact on mental health and behaviour, including a reduction in aggression, bullying, behavioural problems, and fear of falling. Training in safe falling techniques reduced the risk of falls and injuries and improved walking parameters in older adults. Overall, judo training has a positive impact on quality of life, sleep, psychosocial well-being, and social adaptation. Judo is a multidimensional physical intervention with significant preventive, therapeutic, and developmental potential in the area of physical and mental health.