Neuromuscular Adaptations to Traditional Set and Cluster Set Configurations in Block Periodization for Strength and Power Development in Elite Junior Judo Athletes

Laksmana, R., Tomoliyus, & Sukamti, E. R. (2026). Neuromuscular Adaptations to Traditional Set and Cluster Set Configurations in Block Periodization for Strength and Power Development in Elite Junior Judo Athletes. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Analysis, 9(5), 2700-2707.

ABSTRACT

Elite junior judo athletes training under high concurrent technical-tactical loads face challenges in neuromuscular development and fatigue management. Cluster set (CL) resistance training, which incorporates brief intra-set rest intervals, has been proposed to enhance power output and reduce acute neuromuscular fatigue compared with traditional sets (TS). However, its long-term effects in elite combat sport athletes remain unclear. This study compared neuromuscular adaptations following a 12-week block periodisation programme using TS versus CL configurations in elite junior judo athletes. Twenty-two elite junior judo athletes (14 males, 8 females; age 16.55 ± 0.74 years) completed a 12-week programme consisting of hypertrophy (Weeks 1–4), maximal strength (Weeks 5–8), and power (Weeks 9–12) mesocycles. During the power phase, participants were randomised into TS (n = 11) or CL groups (n = 11; 45-second intra-set rest every two repetitions). Primary outcomes included 1RM back squat, 1RM bench press, countermovement jump height (CMJ), and peak barbell velocity (PV), assessed at four time points. Mixed ANOVA (2 × 2) examined group × time interactions during the power mesocycle. Significant improvements were observed across all variables during the baseline mesocycles (Cohen’s d = 1.22–1.90; p < 0.001). Both groups improved significantly during the power mesocycle, with no meaningful group × time interactions for squat strength, bench press, or CMJ. Both groups also showed a force-dominant shift in the force-velocity profile, indicated by reduced PV alongside increased 1RM. These findings suggest that TS and CL produce comparable neuromuscular adaptations over a four-week power mesocycle. CL may therefore serve as a practical alternative for managing concurrent technical-tactical training loads in elite junior judo athletes.

KEYWORDS: Block periodisation, cluster set, force-velocity profiling, neuromuscular adaptation, velocity-based training, judo

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