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Abstract

Abstract Purpose Caffeine (CAF) is a well-established ergogenic aid; however, its effects on sport-specific grip performance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), particularly when dynamic and isometric components are assessed within the same protocol, remain unclear. This study investigated the acute effects of 400 mg CAF ingested 30 min before exercise on dynamic and isometric kimono grip performance, perceived exertion, and self-reported responses in experienced male BJJ athletes. Methods In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial, 15 experienced male BJJ athletes (30.1 ± 3.6 years) ingested 400 mg CAF (≈ 5.2 mg·kg⁻¹) or placebo 30 min before performing the Kimono Grip Strength Test (KGST). The primary outcome was total repetitions in the dynamic component (MNR). Secondary outcomes included mean isometric hold time (MSL), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and self-reported effects. Results CAF increased total MNR compared with placebo (adjusted mean difference = + 1.32 repetitions; 95% CI: 0.05 to 2.59; p  = 0.042; Cohen’s dz = 0.61). No significant differences were observed for MSL ( p  = 0.905) or RPE ( p  = 0.291). After Holm correction for multiple comparisons, no significant differences were found for any self-reported symptom, including vigor (all p  ≥ 0.168). No serious adverse events were observed. Conclusion Ingestion of 400 mg of CAF 30 min before exercise improved MNR performance without affecting MSL or RPE in experienced male BJJ athletes. This ergogenic effect was observed only in the dynamic component under the conditions of the present protocol. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07479875), retrospectively registered.