Effects of combat sports on functional network connectivity in adolescents

Benefits of Judo Training for Brain Functions Related to Physical and Cognitive Performance in Older Adults

“…In fact, stringent evidence was demonstrated among adolescent and young judo players on the several neurophysiological and neuroimaging alterations in brain structure and function by practicing judo [54][55][56]. In a study using event-related potentials and a selective attention task [54], it was found that judo players with black belts (experts) exhibited a higher peak amplitude of P300 in the middle frontal gyrus and N200 in the cuneus.…”

“…These findings imply the attention network alterations caused by judo training. In functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study [55], compared with the control group, the combat sports (including judo) group exhibited increased intranetwork functional connectivity within the sensorimotor network, visual network, and cerebellar network, suggesting functional enhancement. The sensorimotor network plays a key role in motor preparation and execution.…”

“…Accurate assessment of target position and motion trajectory relies on the improved functioning of the visual network. The cerebellar network plays a vital role in regulating motor function, ensuring postural balance, and facilitating motor coordination [55]. Furthermore, combat (judo) training reduced the internetwork functional connectivity between motor and various nonmotor networks.…”

“…To achieve specific functions, reduced functional connectivity between networks may indicate an intentional disconnection between them. This disconnection helps prevent interference between networks, allowing independent utilization of each network [55]. Thus, judo training appears to alter the functional connectivity patterns of various brain networks.…”