In 2024, we teamed up with the Sport Wales’ Athletic Edge programme to support the development of the youth squad.
The Athletic Edge programme has been supporting youth athletes for the past six months. Backed by Sport Wales, this initiative provides S&C coaching and basic nutrition guidance to development squad athletes (aged 13-18).
Each week, athletes take part in 45-minute structured sessions following a progressive curriculum designed to enhance explosive power, speed, agility, strength, mobility, and movement mechanics. The goal is to boost sporting performance while reducing the risk of injury, equipping young athletes with the tools they need to excel.
Strength and conditioning (S&C) is crucial for young judo athletes because it builds the physical foundation necessary for success in the sport. Here’s why it’s important:
1. Injury Prevention
Judo is a physically demanding sport that involves throwing, grappling, and groundwork. A well-structured S&C program helps young athletes develop stronger muscles, joints, and ligaments, reducing the risk of common injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures.
2. Strength Development
Judo requires explosive power for throws and takedowns. Strength training improves overall force production, allowing young judokas to execute techniques more effectively, control opponents, and resist being thrown.
3. Improved Speed and Agility
Judo matches are fast-paced, requiring quick reactions and movement. Agility drills, plyometrics, and explosive training enhance a young athlete’s ability to move swiftly, change direction, and react to an opponent’s attack.
4. Enhanced Endurance
Judo matches can be physically exhausting. Conditioning exercises, such as circuit training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), improve cardiovascular and muscular endurance, ensuring athletes can perform at a high level throughout matches.
5. Better Balance and Coordination
Judo techniques rely on balance and body control. S&C programmes include exercises that enhance proprioception (body awareness) and coordination, making it easier for young athletes to execute throws and recover from attacks.
6. Increased Confidence and Mental Toughness
A strong, well-conditioned athlete is often more confident on the mat. Knowing they have the strength and endurance to compete at their best can boost their mental toughness, an essential trait in combat sports.
7. Long-Term Athletic Development
A properly designed S&C programme promotes good movement patterns, flexibility, and overall athleticism, which benefits young judokas not only in judo but in any sport they may pursue in the future.
