Abstract
In this case control study we aimed at characterizing elbow and shoulder muscular strength profile in male judokas. Isokinetic variables pertaining to shoulder internal and external rotation and elbow flexion and extension were measured at 60 and 180°/s, in a group of 22 national male judokas and in a control group of 22 healthy participants. The judo athletes were significantly stronger than the non-athletes. The mean values of ER:IR ratio observed in the judokas group were lower than in the control group. The mean values of elbow Flex:Ext ratio were similar in both groups at 60°/s, but significantly higher at 180°/s in the judokas group. These findings indicate sport specific muscular adaptations in the dominant shoulder and elbow in male judo athletes. The results of this study provide information that may be of importance for developing training and rehabilitation programs for judo athletes.