Intervention study on the effect of grappling training on the physical and psychomotor health of university students

Abstract

Higher education institutions have the responsibility to promote the comprehensive well-being of their student community, recognizing that professional training must encompass physical, emotional, and social health. Factors such as sedentary lifestyles, academic stress, and unhealthy habits negatively affect the academic performance and quality of life of university students. In this context, grappling, a discipline based on control, grip, and submission techniques derived from Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Olympic wrestling, and sambo, is presented as an effective alternative to improve physical condition and the development of psychomotor skills. General Objective: To determine the effect of grappling training on the physical health and psychomotor skill development of university students at the Universidad Estatal de Bolívar. Methodology: The study adopted a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a single group. The sample consisted of fifteen students who voluntarily participated in an eight-week training program, with 90-minute sessions held three times per week. Technical, physical, and psychomotor variables were evaluated using standardized instruments. Results: Significant improvements were observed: a 25–30% increase in grappling technique, a reduction in body mass index, an increase in explosive strength, speed, and balance, as well as 20–22% improvements in flexibility, endurance, and coordination. Conclusion: The grappling program proved effective in optimizing physical performance, psychomotor abilities, and technical proficiency of students, establishing itself as a preventive health strategy and a comprehensive training approach within the university environment.