Comparison of dynamic balance between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners with different levels of experience

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to analyze the dynamic balance in experienced and beginners practitioners of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and control group. The sample was composed by 34 participants with ages ranging between 20 and 42 years old, divided into three groups: 10 experienced BJJ practitioners, 12 beginners BJJ practitioners and 12 non-practitioners of BJJ that composed the control group. The task of the protocol consisted on the search for balance over a stabilometer, aiming at keeping the platform as close as possible of the horizontal position during each attempt. The results show significant differences among the groups [F(2.31) = 30,24; p < 0.001]. The post-hoc test revealed differences among the experienced BJJ group (46 ± 14 s) and the other groups (Beginners BJJ: 25 ± 6 s, p < 0.001; Control group: 19 ± 4 s, p < 0.001). However, no significant differences were found between control and beginners BJJ groups (p = 0.421). The results suggest that the time of BJJ practice may influence on the balance control performance.