Investigation of Ergogenic Aid and Nutritional Supplement Consumption Patterns in Judo Athletes

Özet

This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the use of ergogenic aids and dietary supplements among judo athletes. A total of 205 voluntary participants representing various age groups, genders, and competition levels (amateur and professional) were included in the study. Data from 59 athletes who reported not using any supplements were excluded from the analysis, which was conducted based on 146 supplement users (71.22%). Data was collected via an online questionnaire developed in accordance with the relevant literature and finalized with expert input.

Among the participants, 92.47% reported using stimulant-type supplements, 75.34% recovery-oriented supplements, 59.59% performance-enhancing supplements, and 41.1% weight-control-related supplements. While stimulants and performance supplements were primarily used during pre-season and competition periods, recovery and weight-control supplements were used more consistently throughout the year.

Findings indicated notable differences in supplement use across age groups. A more consistent pattern of supplement use was observed in the 24–25 age group, whereas younger athletes reported lower usage rates. Furthermore, increased recovery demands in older age groups appeared to influence a greater tendency toward supportive supplement use.

In conclusion, dietary supplement use is prevalent among judo athletes; however, usage patterns vary significantly by supplement type, age group, and training phase. These findings underscore the need for individualized nutrition strategies tailored to athletes’ age and developmental stage.