Gain in thigh muscle strength after balance training in male and female judokas.

In a previous study, balance training yielded a gain in strength in middle-aged men and women. However, whether such training can yield positive results in highly conditioned athletes has not been addressed. A group of 10 male and 10 female judokas volunteered for a 6-week balance training on rolling boards, pegtops, soft mats and large rubber balls 3 times per week. Pre- and post training of two-legged balance was measured on a stabilometer, one-legged standing time on a narrow rim and bilateral isokinetic strength at 60 degrees/s concentric and eccentric modes, 120 degrees/s concentric mode and isometrically for the knee extensors and flexors. Except for concentric movement at 60 degrees/s in women, significant improvements in strength were indicated. It is therefore concluded that balance training may be useful for both male and female judokas for increasing strength and balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]