Background Scientific data regarding the effects of different forms of recovery on judokas' anaerobic performances during successive judo matches are lucking. Moreover, to our knowledge, no relevant studies have examined the effects of the combined-recovery (passive-active-passive) on these performances. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the effect of three recovery modes (i.e., passive recovery, active recovery, and combined recovery) on judokas' anaerobic performances during a simulated competition.

Methods Twelve male black belt judokas performed three test sessions, with one recovery type at each session [active (running at 50% of maximal-aerobic-velocity, passive, and combined-recovery (4 min passive-recovery, 7min active-recovery, and 4-min passive-recovery)]. During each session, the judokas performed the squat-jump (SJ), the countermovement-jump (CMJ), the hand-grip (HG), and the isometric-lumbar-contraction (ILC) tests before and after two 5-min judo matches separated with a 15-min recovery, and after a 15-min recovery subsequent to the second judo match.

Results Performances during the SJ and CMJ, HG and ILC were higher in the combined-recovery condition compared to the passive-recovery one. Moreover, HG was higher after the combined-recovery than the active-recovery before the second combat. Besides, ILC was higher after the active-recovery compared to the passive-recovery before the second combat, and higher after the combined-recovery than the active-recovery 15-min after the second combat.

Discussion/conclusions Judo is a dynamic, high-intensity-intermittent-combat-sport where the anaerobic system provides the short, quick, all-out bursts of maximal power during the match, while the aerobic system contributes to the judoka's ability to sustain effort for the total duration of the combat, to recover during the brief periods of rest or reduced effort, and to an effective recovery between matches. Therefore, active recovery could not be used between judo matches since the judokas need some minutes for muscles relaxation and to concentrate prior to the upcoming combat since judo requires tactical excellence.