Repeated Simulated Match-Induced Changes in Finger Flexor Force and Blood Acid–Base Balance in World-Class Female Judokas

Purpose : The aim of this study was to investigate the time course of maximal isometric finger flexor force and blood acid–base balance during repeated simulated matches in world-class judokas. Methods : Seven 21- to 28-year-old world-class female judokas (including Olympic and World Championship medalists) repeated four 4-minute judo combats interspersed by 15 minutes of passive recovery. Maximal voluntary isometric finger flexor contraction (MVIC) force was measured in both hands after warm-up and immediately after each combat using a handgrip dynamometer. MVIC force was classified as MVIC hikite force (pulling hand) and MVIC tsurite force (lifting hand). Results : Blood lactate concentration, pH, bicarbonate concentration, partial pressure of oxygen, and oxygen saturation were measured between 3 and 5 minutes after each match. At completion of the fourth combat, mean MVIC hikite and tsurite force decreased by 18% and 12%, respectively ( g = 0.23 and 0.29, respectively; P