Chronological Age and its Relation to Results of Tokyo Olympic Games 2020 as a Basis for Preparing Female Judokas for Olympic Participation

Abstract

Aim:to analyze data and results of female judokas in Tokyo Olympics 2020 to identify the chronological age of younger / older judokas and its relation with results in all the seven weight categories in the Olympic Games. Methods: The researchers used the descriptive (survey) approach. Research community included data and results of female judokas (n=192) who participated in Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, held from 24 to 31 July 2021, representing (128) countries in (5) continents. Researchers used female judokas dates of birth and "DATEDIF" equation in "Microsoft Excel" to calculate chronological age of female judokas (daymonthyear) on January 1 st 2020. Results: younger judokas won ( 118) matches (55.40%) on the following weight categories: (-48) kg (58.06%) -(-52) kg (62.50%) -(-57) kg (53.57%) -(-70) kg (74.07%) -(+78) kg (66.67%). Older judokas won (95) matches (44.60%) on (-63) kg weight category (61.67%). Chi2 results indicated statistically significant correlation between age and results on P ≤0.05 in favor of younger judokas on (-48 kg --54 kg --70 kg -+78 kg) weight categories. Another statistically significant correlation between age and results on P ≤0.05 in favor of older judokas was shown for (-63) kg age category. No statistically significant correlation between age and results was shown for neither older no younger judokas on (-57) and (-78) kg weight categories. The researchers concluded that the mean age of younger judokas in the four weight categories (-48, -52, -70, +78) kg was (23.10) year/month and (26) days while the same value for older judokas on (-63) kg weight category was (28.11) year/month and (16) days. The researchers concluded that the best chronological age for peak competitive performance and best results was approximately (23.10) year/month. Therefore, the start of long-term planning process for Olympic participation should start at the age of (19). The chronological age for first Olympic participation should be revised to preserve the healthy development of musculoskeletal system and improving technical and tactical aspects required for elite competitive levels. This may also decrease early competitive pressure over athletes that may affect their physical and mental health negatively.