Role of Core Training in Judo Athletes: A Systematic Review

Marotta N, Lopresti E, Longo UG, Demeco A, Lippi L, Zangari F, Ammendolia V, Vecchio M, Vetrano M, Invernizzi M, de Sire A, Ammendolia A. Role of Core Training in Judo Athletes: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med. 2026 Mar 2;15(5):1897.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Judo is a type of combat sport in which athletes must be able to constantly control their position and maintain a constant dynamic balance to respond to their opponent’s moves. In this scenario, the aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the role of core strength and stability in supporting balance, neuromuscular control, and functional performance-related determinants in judo athletes. 

Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically used for articles published from inception to 4 April 2025, to identify any sort of manuscript indicating judo athletes as its population and core training approaches as the intervention (PROSPERO registry with the code: CRD420251032685). 

Results: Out of 401 studies, after the removal of 206 duplicates, we screened 195 records. Then, seven articles were included in the systematic review. We found that a strong core might improve balance and neurodynamic control. International-level judokas showed greater trunk extensor strength and less trunk angular displacement. Previous research suggests that core training improves physical fitness, balance, and lower limb recovery; moreover, the lack of core muscle strength might predispose athletes to injury, while solid core stability could ensure good support for the body to perform any movement in a balanced, coordinated, and functional manner. Core stability training and strengthening protocols might also decrease the risk of falling, which could have a beneficial effect on judoka athletes. 

Conclusions: Despite the wide variety of protocols used for core strengthening, it has been documented that a strong core might improve balance and neurodynamic control of movement during competition.

Keywords: judoka;  trunk;  balance;  spine;  exercise;  rehabilitation;  martial arts

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