Purpose: This study aimed to compare the maximal isometric handgrip strength of 546 male judo athletes from different age groups (Cadet = 58; Junior = 118; Senior = 220; 30-39 years = 108; 40-49 years = 31; 51-59 years = 16). Methods: Absolute and relative values were calculated for each hand and for the sum of both hands. Age groups were compared through a one-way analysis of variance, followed by Tukey test. The effect size was determined by partial eta squared. Results: There was an effect of age category for the right and left absolute handgrip strength, with lower values for the Cadets compared to all other age groups (p < 0.05). However, no age category effect was found for relative variables. Conclusions: The differences in maximal isometric handgrip strength between age groups in judo are mainly related to differences in body mass. This suggests that judo can act as a relevant intervention to handgrip strength.
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