Relationship Between Strength Training Practice and Handgrip Strength of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Athletes

Abstract

This study compares handgrip strength among Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) athletes with and without weight training, examining its impact on endurance and asymmetry. The sample comprised 22 male BJJ athletes, divided into two groups based on their training: weight training practitioners (WT) and non-weight training practitioners (NWT). Both groups underwent an isometric handgrip strength test, applying 30 seconds of maximum force using a traction/compression dynamometer (EMG System do Brasil®). Data were processed in Matlab® to obtain strength indices: maximum force (Fmax), mean force (Fmed), and fatigue index (FI). Student's t-test was used for analysis. No significant differences were found in right-hand Fmax (35.08 ± 5.30 and 32.75 ± 7.33; p=0.14), left-hand Fmax (30.77 ± 6.31 and 29.57 ± 7.32; p=0.35), or asymmetry (13.11±10.67 and 11.98 ± 9.85; p=0.78) between WT and NWT. FI values were also not different (right: 30.48 ± 18.89 and 36.48 ± 11.62, p=0.36; left: 35.72 ± 12.99 and 35.13 ± 13.17, p=0.95), except for asymmetry (22.67 ± 13.29 and 44.69 ± 28.45; p=0.02). Weight training in BJJ athletes does not significantly increase maximum handgrip strength; however, it reduces asymmetry in contralateral limbs for the fatigue index.