Mechanisms and trainability of peripheral fatigue in grappling

Abstract

Grappling is an ancient form of unarmed combat that has evolved into several distinct combat sports, such as wrestling, judo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Despite different styles and rulesets, these sports share several fundamental principles, such as the use of grips to control the opponent. Unsurprisingly, there is a discrepancy in grip strength parameters between grapplers of varying skill levels, and grip performance is also implicated in competition success. This article explores the mechanistic basis of peripheral fatigue and proposes strength and conditioning strategies aimed at attenuating the grappling-induced decline in force-generating capacity and endurance of the forearms and hands.