Category: Evidence-based classification in Paralympic judo

To compete in Paralympic sports, all athletes must undergo classification to determine whether they are eligible to compete and to allocate eligible athletes to different sport classes. Judo is one of the most popular Paralympic sports for athletes with vision impairment (VI), with partially sighted and blind judokas competing against each other within the same class. Like other Paralympic sports, VI judo needs to develop an evidence-based classification system based on the specific visual demands of the sport.

The aim of this research project is to evaluate the current classification system in VI judo and to put forward recommendations for an evidence-based system of classification. To this end, we examine (1) the impact of vision impairment in judo under able-sighted rules, i.e., starting without the grip in place, to establish evidence-based minimum impairment criteria for VI judo, and (2) the impact of vision impairment in judo under VI rules, i.e., starting with the grip in place, to establish evidence-based sport class criteria for VI judo. The results inform how judokas with vision impairment should be classified for competition, so that the impact of impairment on performance is minimised.

28 February 202128 February 2021 johnvdkamp Evidence-based classification in Paralympic judo

May the best-sighted win? The relationship between visual function and performance in Para judo

In para judo, blind and partially sighted athletes compete in one class. It is questionable whether they can do so in a fair manner. Our investigation of the relationship between direct measures of visual function and the results of international competitions indicates that to minimise the impact of impairment, para judo competitions should be split into two classes. … Continue reading May the best-sighted win? The relationship between visual function and performance in Para judo

28 February 202128 February 2021 johnvdkamp Evidence-based classification in Paralympic judo

Fight without sight: The contribution of vision to judo performance

This study tested the assumption that vision does not influence judo performance, provided players start with their grip in place. Able-sighted judoka's competed in practice matches in sighted and blindfolded opponents. The findings show that vision enhances judo performance. This suggests it would be fairer when blinded and partially sighted judoka's would not compete together. … Continue reading Fight without sight: The contribution of vision to judo performance

28 February 202128 February 2021 kai Evidence-based classification in Paralympic judo

Expert opinion on an evidence-based classification system for judoka’s with vision impairment

In this study, we aimed to establish expert opinion on the requirements for an evidence-based classification system for VI judo, where currently judoka’s with vision impairment (VI) compete in the same class irrespective of their level of impairment. A panel of experts was canvased for a large range of issues related to classification in judo. … Continue reading Expert opinion on an evidence-based classification system for judoka’s with vision impairment