LAUSR

AbstractPurpose The aim of this study was to investigate the time–motion of the matches and patterns of salivary biomarkers during different championship judo phases. For this, eight male judo athletes from all weight divisions (16 ± 6 years of practice) were studied during an official championship.MethodsThe combats were recorded and a time–motion analysis was made, assessing total time by combat and time per block of action (approach time, gripping time, time of attack/defense, groundwork combat time, and pause time). Saliva samples were collected for the measurement of cortisol, total protein, and osmolality levels.Results There were differences between championship phases with post-match 3 (11.4 ± 4 ng/mL) and post-match 2 (10.3 ± 6 ng/mL) presenting higher cortisol values than pre-match 1 (5.5 ± 1.8 ng/mL) (p < 0.05 for both comparisons). In addition, post-match 3 (11.4 ± 4 ng/mL) was higher than post-match 1 (6.5 ± 3 ng/mL) (p < 0.05). In the time–motion analysis, there were no differences (p > 0.05) between different championship phases. The only difference observed was a higher number of ippon between the matches, with higher values for the first compared to the second match (p < 0.05).Conclusion It is suggested that judo matches present a pattern that does not change in the distinct phases of the competition. Cortisol may be considered as a marker of intensity of effort during judo matches.