Abstract - Meaning of games and movement activities in initial training of young judo sportsmen
Games and other forms of physical activity giving amusement are one of the favourite pastime for people, especially for youth. As the age of sportsmen starting to practise judo decreases, the role of games – so popular among young people – gains on importance as the source of physical and psychological benefits.
According to the author's own experience and knowledge gained from literature, the age between 8-10 years is optimal for undertaking judo training. At this stage of development, the most important features of judo sportsmen are shaped. Therefore, the initial training process should be subordinated to such essential elements:
- mastering of general fitness
- development of motor abilities
- learning of basic judo techniques
The proportion between general development games and specialized judo training should be 60% to 40%. Games are responsible for development of abilities crucial in judo, i.e. quickness, coordination, agility.
The necessity of proper adoption of games in judo training of young people has also been stressed.