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Purpose: This study sought to investigate the efficacy of Tabata-style high-intensity interval training (T-HIIT) on athletic performance in judoka and to determine the impact of the fecal organic acid profile before training on the improvement of athletic performance. Methods: Twenty males from Aichi University Judo Club (10 high-level competitors and 10 others) were included. Physical fitness tests such as the Uchikomi shuttle run, countermovement jump, squat jump, and chin-ups using a judo uniform were performed before and after T-HIIT. Fecal samples were collected before T-HIIT to measure the fecal concentration of organic acids. The fecal characteristics were categorized using the Bristol Stool Scale. Results: The mean number of repetitions of the Uchikomi shuttle run test significantly increased for all judoka following T-HIIT. However, improvements in other physical fitness tests varied, with some judoka showing improvements while others did not. The changes in countermovement jump (r = −.48, P =.029) and chin-ups using a judo uniform (r = −.45, P =.045) after T-HIIT were significantly negatively correlated with the fecal concentrations of succinic acid before T-HIIT. There was a significant correlation between the Bristol Stool Scale score and fecal concentrations of succinic acid (r =.45, P =.044). Compared with other compounds, the fecal concentrations of acetic acid and propionic acid were significantly greater in high-level competitors, while succinic acid concentrations tended to be lower. Conclusions: T-HIIT effectively improved the specialized endurance of the judoka. Modifying the fecal organic acid profile, especially the fecal succinic acid concentration, may enhance the efficacy of athletic performance improvements achieved by T-HITT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the effects of repeated Brazilian jiujitsu (BJJ) matches on neuromuscular fatigue in forearm-flexor and knee-extensor muscles. Methods: Twelve BJJ athletes (8 men and 4 women) performed a simulated BJJ tournament composed of four 8-minute matches interspersed by 16-minute intervals. Neuromuscular fatigue was assessed via prematch to postmatch(es) reductions in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), voluntary activation, and potentiated twitch force (Ptwpot) in the forearm-flexor and knee-extensor muscles. Results: The MVIC of the knee extensors and forearm flexors reduced from prematch 1 to postmatch 2 and remained suppressed until postmatch 4 (P <.034). The voluntary activation of the knee extensors declined only after match 4, whereas the voluntary activation of the forearm flexors did not change throughout the matches (P =.102). Ptwpot of knee extensors decreased from prematch 1 to postmatch 1 (P <.001) and remained reduced until postmatch 4 (P <.001). Ptwpot of the forearm flexors reduced after every match (P <.010), with complete recovery occurring only before the second match (P =.99). The magnitude of the prematch-to-postmatch reduction in Ptwpot was lower in knee extensors than in forearm flexors (P =.044). Conclusions: Repeated BJJ matches induced neuromuscular fatigue, mainly due to impairments in muscle contractile function (ie, peripheral fatigue). The time between BJJ matches seems to be insufficient to allow complete recovery of neuromuscular function, which may influence performance during subsequent matches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Martial arts and combat sports (MA&CS) are lifelong nontraditional activities seldom available for youth in school settings. Research has found that MA&CS can promote a variety of benefits to youth with novel experiences that promote nonviolent, psychological, affective, cognitive, and physical outcomes. Objective: The objective of this scoping review was to identify and categorize the peer-reviewed research with a pedagogical focus on MA&CS for youth across 10 years. Methods: The key terms used related to MA&CS and young people. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for scoping review guidelines and included peer-reviewed empirical articles from six databases in English and Portuguese from 2013 to 2022. Results: The Results section was divided into a quantitative description of the literature analyzed and a discussion of the psychological, social, affective, physical, cognitive, and academic benefits of MA&CS interventions. Conclusion: MA&CS interventions can provide multiple benefits for youth in physical education and out-of-school settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To characterize the time structure of K1 kickboxing matches of Glory World Series (Glory) and to determine potential differences between winners and losers. Methods: Seventeen matches of Glory 2019 (17 first rounds, 13 second rounds, and 8 third rounds) were video-analyzed to quantify (1) the time expended in high- and low-intensity activity and pauses, (2) the number and pattern of attacks, and (3) the number of effective attacks. Fighters were professional male athletes (age 27.9 [2.7] y) of the middle-weight category (85 kg). The number and the pattern of attacks and the number of effective attacks were compared between winners and losers. Results: The mean times expended in high- and low-intensity activity and pauses were 234.6 (133.9) seconds, 97.4 (60.1) seconds, and 36.0 (19.9) seconds, respectively, resulting in an effort-to-pause ratio of ∼1.8:1. Compared with losers, winners presented (1) a greater number of attacks in the second round (P =.004) and entire match (P =.009), (2) a greater number of attacks containing 3 attacks in sequence in the second round (P =.001) and attacks containing >3 attacks in the third round (P =.049), and (3) a greater number of effective attacks in the second round (P =.011) and entire match (P =.008). Conclusions: The findings of the present study indicate that K1 kickboxing in Glory matches presents a ∼1.8:1 effort-to-pause ratio and that winners perform more attacks, effective attacks, and attacks in sequence. These data provide useful insights to improve the training specificity of kickboxing athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixed martial arts' popularity has increased in recent years, alongside descriptive research and evidence-based performance recommendations. Guidelines for (both chronic and acute) weight making exist; however, how these translate in real-life scenarios and detailed investigations on practices in larger groups deserve attention. The present study examined the body mass (BM) and composition of 33 professional mixed martial arts athletes preparing for 80 fights. Athletes were supported by on-site dietitians, who encouraged evidence-based practices. Fasted BM was measured throughout the last ∼10 days before all bouts (acute weight management phase). A subset of athletes had body composition assessed before and after the chronic weight loss phase for 40 fights. Most athletes engaged in chronic BM loss, and all engaged in acute weight loss. Many lost fat-free mass (FFM) during the chronic phase, with rates of BM loss <0.5% best preserving FFM. Regardless of losses, the present athletes possessed greater FFM than other combat sport athletes and engaged in greater acute weight loss. Dehydration in the 24–48 hr before the weigh-in was not reflective of weight regain after the weigh-in, rather BM 7–10 days before the weigh-in was most reflective. These findings suggest that many mixed martial arts athletes could increase FFM at the time of competition by maintaining leaner physiques outside of competition and/or allowing increased time to reduce BM chronically. Acutely, athletes can utilize evidence-based protocols, eliminating carbohydrates, fiber, sodium, and finally fluid in a staged approach, before the weigh-in, reducing the amount of sweating required, thus theoretically better protecting health and preserving performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Talent transfer has enabled elite athletes to be successful in another sport, with great potential in para-sport. Previous research suggests that similarities between donor and recipient sports may facilitate talent transfer; however, this remains unclear in para-sport. This study investigated patterns between donor and recipient sports' characteristics, identifying the impact on talent transfer in para-sport. An Australian case study utilizing secondary data of 38 Australian Paralympians who competed at the Paralympic Games from 2000 through 2020 was analyzed. Results demonstrated that similarities between sports were not significantly associated with successful talent transfers between Paralympic sports. Understanding patterns associated with successful Paralympic talent transfers offers a foundation of knowledge for designing and developing future talent-transfer pathways and research. Based on this study, it is recommended that sport administrators and practitioners explore greater opportunity for talent transfer in para-sport, rather than limiting talent-transfer opportunities based on athletes' donor sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Match-related performance analysis in judo Para athletes with visual impairments is important to coaches and staff to identify technical–tactical profiles of their athletes and opponents but also to identify whether there are similar characteristics in each visual class. Thus, this study explores the match-related performance in judo Para athletes and verifies the relationship between performance using the old and new classification systems. The match-derived variables were analyzed using different statistical methods considering a total of 182 matches from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. The results indicated that performance was affected by sex and degree of impairment. The new classification system seems suitable for grouping Para judo athletes, as it differentiates performance between the two proposed classes (J1 and J2), since athletes from each group compete separately. Furthermore, different variability index measures were correlated with competitive performance, demonstrating a specific performance profile for each sport class in judo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Successful participation in taekwondo (TKD) requires athletes to possess quick decision-making abilities and demonstrate technical proficiency during competition. Dehydration, occurring during both training and competition, is widely recognized to have various negative effects. Methods: This study investigated the impact of different levels of dehydration on cognitive function, as measured by the Vienna Test System, and the specific performance of kicking techniques among TKD athletes. Using a randomized crossover design, 12 participants were involved in the study. Before and after 1 hour of training at 80% of maximal heart rate, participants were weighed and provided urine samples. All participants were randomly assigned to 3 different hydration conditions: the euhydrated (EUH) group had unrestricted access to fluid consumption, while the hypohydrated (HYP) and severely HYP (S-HYP) groups experienced reductions of 2.0% and 4.0% of their initial body weight, respectively. Results: The EUH group exhibited better reaction speed in reaction-time test-form S1 than the HYP and S-HYP groups. Notably, the EUH group demonstrated a significantly higher success rate in the front-side kick (EUH 98%, HYP 90%, S-HYP 88%; P <.05). However, the success rates of back roundhouse kick and free head kick were similar among the 3 statuses. Furthermore, postexercise heart rates were found to be significantly higher in the HYP and S-HYP groups compared with the EUH group. Conclusions: This study provides insight into the negative effects of dehydration on cognitive function and TKD-specific performance. It is recommended that TKD athletes maintain optimal hydration levels during training and competition to ensure optimal performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alexander Pho and Benjamin A. White respond to Nicolas Dixon's critique of mixed martial arts (MMA) through a 'companions in innocence' argument. Taking up a counterexample that Dixon is quick to dismiss, the authors argue that MMA techniques are on a par with the 'pain-leveraging' tactics used by cyclists and that pressing for a moral distinction between cycling and MMA leads to absurd conclusions about other practices. So, because cycling is morally permissible, MMA is morally permissible. This companions in innocence argument fails. But cycling can be used to develop a better, though only partial, defense of MMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to recent calls for promoting the contextual intelligence of sport psychology practitioners, the aim of the current study was to obtain the first-person competitive experiences of kendo fighters (i.e., kenshi). Existential phenomenological interviews were conducted with eight competitive Japanese-American kenshi residing in the United States. The findings of thematic analysis indicated that the participants possessed a strong commitment to earning ippon (i.e., a valid point), which was achieved by a subjective synchronization of mind, sword, and body in the execution of a strike against an opponent. They considered this to be a transformative experience, which elevated them perceptually out of the sporting context to a momentary sense of "cutting" the opponent with a real sword. The current findings also offer sport psychology consultants possible context-specific insights (e.g., importance of seme) and strategies (e.g., management of attentional focus, self-regulation techniques) for assisting kenshi in preparing for competitive situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: As a multidisciplined combat sport, relationships between external and internal training loads and intensities of mixed martial arts (MMA) have not been described. The aim of this study was to determine the external loads and intensities of MMA training categories and their relationship to internal loads and intensities. Methods: Twenty MMA athletes (age = 23.3 [5.3] y, mass = 72.1 [7.2] kg, stature = 171.5 [8.4] cm) were observed for 2 consecutive weeks. Internal load and intensity (session rating of perceived exertion [sRPE]) were calculated using the Foster RPE for the session overall (sRPE-training load [TL]) and segmented RPE (segRPE-TL) for each training category: warm-up, striking drills, wrestling drills, Brazilian jiujitsu (BJJ) drills, striking sparring, wrestling sparring, BJJ sparring, and MMA sparring. External load and intensity were measured via Catapult OptimEye S5 for the full duration of each session using accumulated Playerload (PLdACC) and PLdACC per minute (PLdACC·min−1). Differences in loads between categories and days were assessed via Bayesian analysis of variance (BF10 ≥ 3). Predictive relationships between internal and external variables were calculated using Bayesian regression. Results: Session overall sRPE-TL = 448.6 (191.1) arbitrary units (AU); PLdACC = 310.6 (112) AU. Category segRPE-TL range = 33.8 (22.6) AU (warm-up) to 122.8 (54.6) AU (BJJ drills). Category PLdACC range = 44 (36.3) AU (warm-up) to 125 (58.8) AU (MMA sparring). Neither sRPE-TL nor PLdACC changed between days. PLdACC was different between categories. Evidence for regressions was strong-decisive except for BJJ drills (BF10 = 7, moderate). R2 range =.50 to.77, except for warm-up (R2 =.17), BJJ drills (R2 =.27), BJJ sparring (R2 =.49), and session overall (R2 =.13). Conclusions: While MMA training categories may be differentiated in terms of external load, overall session external load does not change within or between weeks. Resultant regression equations may be used to appropriately plan MMA technical/tactical training loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This mini review explores the psychological factors associated with weight cutting practices among combat sport athletes. We overviewed combat sport athletes' extrinsic and intrinsic motivations for their sport participation and performance expectations and goals associated with weight cutting. Next, we reviewed the extant research on psychological risk factors associated with weight cutting with a particular focus on combat sport athletes' relationship with food, societal expectations concerning body image, and disordered eating. Finally, we examined how applying task-oriented strategies and Goal Attainment Theory aligns with combat sport athletes' motivation for sport participation. We called for further research into exploring how promoting gradual weight loss may promote psychological resilience with the goal of promoting healthier weight management strategies among combat sport athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Accurate recognition of martial arts leg poses is essential for applications in sports analytics, rehabilitation, and human-computer interaction. Traditional pose recognition models, relying on sequential or convolutional approaches, often struggle to capture the complex spatial-temporal dependencies inherent in martial arts movements. These methods lack the ability to effectively model the nuanced dynamics of joint interactions and temporal progression, leading to limited generalization in recognizing complex actions. Methods: To address these challenges, we propose PoseGCN, a Graph Convolutional Network (GCN)-based model that integrates spatial, temporal, and contextual features through a novel framework. PoseGCN leverages spatial-temporal graph encoding to capture joint motion dynamics, an action-specific attention mechanism to assign importance to relevant joints depending on the action context, and a self-supervised pretext task to enhance temporal robustness and continuity. Experimental results on four benchmark datasets—Kinetics-700, Human3.6M, NTU RGB+D, and UTD-MHAD—demonstrate that PoseGCN outperforms existing models, achieving state-of-the-art accuracy and F1 scores. Results and discussion: These findings highlight the model's capacity to generalize across diverse datasets and capture fine-grained pose details, showcasing its potential in advancing complex pose recognition tasks. The proposed framework offers a robust solution for precise action recognition and paves the way for future developments in multi-modal pose analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The promulgation and implementation of a protection system for Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) has provided a new legal path for transforming cultural capital and solidifying the modern values of Chinese folk martial arts. However, different folk martial arts have formed differentiated evaluations and social statuses by transmitting and reproducing cultural capital across generations. Through the field investigation of Sichuan Wushu Intangible Cultural Heritage (WICH) projects, this study discusses the relationship between the status and influence of WICH and the operation of cultural capital. The findings demonstrate that the WICH inheritance group continues to pass down and transform embodied cultural capital through the inheritance relationship network while constructing and expanding the project's objective cultural capital. In doing so, they maintain and strengthen the project's established reputation and social status. Therefore, cultural capital and the path of capital reproduction of folk martial arts formed in the traditional inheritance field affect the acquisition of WICH status. A comprehensive clarification of the positive role of cultural capital in the acquisition of WICH status can provide a reference for the modern transformation and continuation of the value system of WICH projects at different levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on African migrant mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters enrolled in the Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC), a leading MMA organization established in 2009 in South Africa. It highlights their precarious work and living conditions, which are counterbalanced by the promise of real but rare career possibilities. Drawing from Michel de Certeau's conceptual framework – notably his concepts of strategies, tactics and lieu propre (proper place) – we analyse what it is to struggle, cope and sometimes thrive, as a migrant fighter in South Africa. We rely on 61 semi-structured interviews with 35 professional EFC fighters from four Sub-Saharan countries who migrated to South Africa. Our results highlight the various tactics – which rely on social networks, their bodily stature, fighting skills and EFC media presence – that fighters mobilize to cope with the hardships of migratory status and unstable work conditions. We thus reveal the dialectic power relations that tie fighters to promoters and contribute to understanding migrants' work conditions in the neoliberal sports market. Our research highlights the need to move away from migrant athletes' caricatured representations as silent and passive victims unaware of the mechanisms of oppression to a more dynamic understanding of power relations that takes coping mechanisms and career trajectories into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ensuring reliability of measurement instruments in combat sports is crucial for coaches and researchers, promoting their widespread use. This study assessed the reliability of a procedure that measures kinetic and kinematic variables in karate athletes' roundhouse kicks. Twenty-four male karate athletes participated, performing three kicks initially and three 48 h later. Paired Student's t-test found no significant differences between tests. Bland–Altman plot revealed few outliers. Strong agreement between test and retest was shown by Pearson correlations, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), and Coefficient of Variation (CV) for impact force variables: r = 0.96; ICC = 0.93; CV = 0.12%, impulse: r = 0.95; ICC = 0.93; CV = 1.08%, attack time: r = 0.82; ICC = 0.70; CV = 0.14%, contact time: r = 0.72; ICC = 0.60; CV = 0.18%, return time: r = 0.80; ICC = 0.71; CV = 4.28%, and kick time: r = 0.84; ICC = 0.77; CV = 2.88%. No Smallest Worthwhile Changes (SWC) were observed, and Cronbach's alpha indicated acceptable internal consistency. In conclusion, the procedure demonstrated reliability in terms of internal and measurement consistency, without random errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: White matter signal abnormalities have been associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and repetitive head impacts (RHI) in contact sports (e.g. American football, rugby). However, previous studies of mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters from the Professional Fighters Brain Health Study have not found greater white matter signal abnormalities in fighters versus controls. Objective: This study aims to explore the varying white matter effects of football/rugby and MMA by analyzing how football/rugby history in mixed martial arts fighters may relate to white matter signal abnormalities, helping to further our understanding of sport-specific brain health risks. Methods: Baseline visits for 90 active, professional, male mixed martial arts fighters and 27 unexposed male controls were cross-sectionally analyzed. Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis tests compared demographics and white matter signal abnormalities, and multivariable regression models examined the associations between football/rugby history and white matter signal abnormality burden in fighters, adjusting for age, education, race, fights, MRI scanner, and supratentorial volume. Results: 37/90 fighters had football/rugby history (mean: 4 years; range: 1–12 years). White matter signal abnormalities were significantly greater in fighters with football/rugby history compared to fighters without football/rugby history (Wilcoxon, p = 0.0190). Football/rugby history was significantly associated with white matter signal abnormality burden >75th percentile (OR: 12, CI: 3.3–61, p < 0.001) and >50th percentile (OR: 3.2, CI: 1.2–9.4, p = 0.024) in fighters. Years of football/rugby were also significantly associated with white matter signal abnormalities. Conclusion: Our findings expand on previous literature by demonstrating a significant relationship between white matter signal abnormalities (WMSAs) and football/rugby history but not MMA. Furthermore, our study suggests an added risk for WMSAs in MMA fighters with a history of football/rugby. Future research should further evaluate WMSAs in contact sports, helping to inform athletes, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers of the potential brain health risks of contact sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Punching is a crucial element of mixed martial arts (MMA), often leading to knockouts (KO) or technical knockouts (TKOs). This study explored the relative foot positions of athletes, their stances, punch type executed, and the reliability of these variables to provide insights into effective punch application in MMA. We retrospectively examined MMA contests from the Ultimate Fighting Championship that ended via KO/TKO (2020 to 2022). Data were sourced from publicly available videos on the internet. Three analysts, each with at least three years of experience in striking combat sports and competitive MMA, conducted observations independently. Only critical strikes where all analysts agreed on the time and type of punch were included. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using the Cohen's kappa coefficient statistic (K). The k -means cluster analyses were used to identify the most frequently occurring front foot positions (FFP) and punch types (PT). All variables, except for the back foot position, demonstrated substantial or greater reliability (K = 0.64–0.92). Out of 271 contests, the most common fight-ending punches were the rear straight (n = 77, 29.2%), front hook (n = 71, 26.9%), and rear hook (n = 63, 23.9%). According to the cluster analysis, overall, the most common PT for athletes of the same stance was an outside FFP with a rear straight punch (n = 35, 14.4%). For competitors in opposite stances, the most common FFP was outside, with a rear hook punch (n = 16, 22.8%). Identifying common PTs, FFPs, and stances offers valuable insights for technical coaching and talent identification, aiding in refining training methods and improving MMA performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the role of gender as a central organizing principle in the inclusion work within martial arts clubs in Sweden, against a backdrop of inclusion being an explicit focus in the policy programs of the sports movement. Based on qualitative data collected through focus group interviews with representatives from three martial arts clubs, this study departs from a social constructionist perspective where gender is understood as a social process or a ‘doing’. The analysis of the data reveals two distinct approaches to gender as an organizing principle: downplaying the significance of gender and explicating the significance of gender. Within the first approach the meaning and significance of gender are subordinated by organizing mixed-gender groups and regulating interactions within the groups. The importance of equalizing potential physical differences and avoiding sexism in practice, is emphasized. However, the approach also brings forward challenging situations related to gender and other inclusion aspects, such as religious beliefs and cultural backgrounds. The second approach recognizes the significance of gender as a structural aspect and employs gender-separatist training groups and specific activities for girls and women. These targeted efforts are justified by the respondents because of the male dominance and masculinity norms that exist in martial arts and hinder girls’ and women's participation. The findings highlight the complexities and tensions of how gender is constructed and reproduced within the context of martial arts clubs and contribute to deepening the understanding of how these constructions condition the inclusion work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plyometric training (PT) was explored as an effective intervention for enhancing muscle strength and power. However, its specific impact on these attributes in martial arts athletes had not been systematically evaluated. Therefore, the objective of this meta-analysis was to provide a quantitative assessment of the impact of PT on muscle strength and power in martial arts athletes. Additionally, it aimed to investigate potential moderators that could influence this relationship. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across several databases, including SPORTDiscus, PubMed, CNKI, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection. Studies were included if they were controlled trials that examined the effects of PT on measures of muscle strength and/or muscle power in martial arts athletes. Effect sizes (ESs) were calculated using a random-effects model based on weighted and averaged standardized mean differences. Moderator analyses were performed for variables related to age and training. The ROB2 and ROBINS-I tools were used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and the extended Egger's test. Results: The analysis included fifteen studies with a total of 499 participants aged 12 to 24 years. The findings indicated that PT had a small-to-moderate effect on muscle strength (ES = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.38 to 0.87, p < 0.001) and power (ES = 0.45; 95% CI = 0.20 to 0.71, p = 0.001). Furthermore, neither age nor training parameters significantly moderated the effect of PT on muscle strength and power. Conclusions: The findings of the present study indicated that PT effectively enhanced muscle strength and power in martial arts athletes. However, additional trials are recommended to determine the optimal training doses and further explore the interactions among training variables to improve muscle strength and power in these athletes. Trial registration: https//www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display%5frecord.php? Record ID = 579,901, identifier CRD42024579901. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to evaluate the quality of professional athletes in martial arts, the camera array based measurement and multi-view geometry were combined to develop a refined recognition method of human movements under the constraints of human parametric model, and a quantitative evaluation method system of martial arts movements was established based on the obtained joint position and angle information, and the technical movements of athletes of different levels in the five-step boxing event were measured and evaluated. The results show that the method developed in this paper can effectively realize the identification and quality evaluation of athletes’ movements in Wushu events, and the research results can also be extended to other competitive sports and public health, so as to provide support for scientific training and sports rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Both maximal muscle strength and muscle power are independently important for karatekas. However, the relationship between strength and power in elite male kumite karatekas is under researched. This study aimed to determine the relationship between back-leg-chest (BLC) isometric muscle strength with sprint and jump variables in elite male karatekas. Methods: Male elite/international level (tier 4) kumite karatekas (n = 14; age, 20.79 ± 1.67 year; height, 1.77 ± 0.06 m; weight, 72.21 ± 5.20 kg) were recruited. BLC strength, sprint and jump values were measured with a dynamometer, a photocell, and an application, respectively. Pearson correlation (trivial r < 0.1; small r < 0.3; moderate r < 0.5; large r < 0.7; very large r < 0.9; nearly perfect/perfect r ≥ 0.9) and linear regression analyses were performed to determine the relationship and shared variance between BLC strength, sprint, and jump performance. Results: There were large to very large correlations between BLC strength and sprint time (r = − 0.930, p < 0.01), velocity (r = 0.918; p < 0.01), acceleration (r = 0.913; p < 0.01) and running momentum (r = 0.721; p < 0.01). Additionally, BLC strength correlated with jump height (moderate, r = 0.550, p < 0.05), peak anaerobic power (moderate, r = 0.672, p < 0.01) and power to body mass ratio (moderate, r = 0.545, p < 0.05). BLC strength and sprint variables showed an r2 = 0.52–0.86 (p < 0.01), while BLC strength and jump variables showed an r2 = 0.29–0.45 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: BLC strength is related to jump and sprint performance in male elite karate athletes. This relationship underscores the importance of including strength training that targets BLC muscle strength in training programs for coaches and athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximizing muscular performance to improve upper limb strength and power can be advantageous in preparing kickboxers for training and competition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of isometric and isotonic upper limb post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) strategies on the maximal strength of young men kickboxers' upper limbs, assessed through handgrip strength (HG) and the chest medicine ball throw test (CMBT). Fifty-three amateur men kickboxers, aged between 16 and 23, participated voluntarily in this regional-level study. Over two weeks, participants were randomly exposed to three conditions: isometric, isotonic, and control (no warm-up) conditions. Each condition was repeated twice during this timeframe, resulting in six data collection sessions. After each condition, participants underwent assessments for HG strength and CMBT performance. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant differences between conditions in HG (p < 0.001; ES = 0.740). Post-hoc analysis revealed that the isometric condition showed significantly better scores compared to both the isotonic condition (p < 0.001) and the control condition (p < 0.001). Significant differences were found in CMBT (p < 0.001; ES = 0.355). Post-hoc analysis revealed that the isometric (p < 0.001) and isotonic conditions (p < 0.001) displayed significantly superior outcomes in contrast to control. In conclusion, isometric exercise significantly improved maximal HG strength and muscular power in the CMBT, showing a potential effective strategy for implementing PAPE for kickboxers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates children's graphic representation of two complex motor skills, snowboarding and aikido, from the perspective of drawing flexibility research. In particular, the role of working memory capacity in the development of drawing flexibility is examined. A total of 127 children in the age range 5.7–11.9 years were shown short videos of snowboarding and aikido and were required to make drawings of them. In addition, participants were administered Goodenough's Draw-a-man Test (that measures the ability to draw detail and proportion in the human figure) and two working memory tests (the Mr. Cucumber test and the Backward Digit Span). The snowboarding and aikido drawings were scored for 19 or 13 features, respectively, on which they could differ from the participant's standard drawing of a person. The snowboarding and aikido scores were correlated, also controlling for age and Draw-a-man scores, indicating a common variance for drawing flexibility. The drawing flexibility scores increased with age, and were correlated with working memory capacity, also controlling for age and Draw-a-man scores. These results are consistent with a neo-Piagetian model of drawing flexibility development. Detailed analyses are also provided on children's production of stick figures and "transparencies," and on the relation of each single modified feature with age and working memory capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike other forms of martial arts, Chinese Wushu can fortify both the physical and mental health of adolescents. However, limited research has been conducted on the social benefits derived from Chinese martial arts. Grounded in the principles of embodied cognition theory, this study employs the technique of a randomized controlled trial to establish a causal link between Chinese martial arts and the development of interpersonal skills in adolescents. It further explores the mediating role of psychological quality and the potential moderating influence of an only-child status. The practice of Chinese martial arts exhibits a substantial positive impact on interpersonal skills (ß=0.161, p < 0.01). Additionally, psychological wellbeing fully mediates the relationship between Chinese martial arts and interpersonal skills (ß=0.017, 95% CI= [-0.098, 0.146]). Intriguingly, the mediating role of psychological wellbeing is moderated by the factor of only-child status (ß=0.216, 95% CI= [0.050, 0.390]). Embodied cognition theory posits that the integration of internal psychological processes with external bodily dynamics leads to a state of harmony and unity. Training in Chinese martial arts enhances psychological well-being through the interaction between the body and its environment. Furthermore, due to the compensation effect and peer influence, Chinese martial arts as a teamwork are particularly advantageous for only children. Training in Chinese martial arts enhances psychological quality by harmonizing internal psychological processes with external bodily dynamics. Furthermore, due to the compensation effect and peer influence, practicing Chinese martial arts as a group activity proves particularly advantageous for only children. The conclusion of this study integrates the principles of Chinese martial arts with embodied cognition theory, providing both a theoretical framework and practical insights. These findings are intended to inform and guide policy formulation regarding Chinese martial arts education by the relevant authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This practitioner essay will discuss the evidence base for an Australian trauma-informed kickboxing program, The Fight Back Project. We share key differences and adjustments while delivering this program in the Salvadoran context. We consider practitioner assumptions and limitations when transferring trauma-informed practice principles from the Global North to the Central American setting, and the criticality of gender-responsive adaptations. Drawing from existing research on the benefits of trauma-informed martial arts as a form of physical exercise, we describe the collaborative development and implementation of a trauma-informed kickboxing program alongside a local, community-led organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to utilize modern technological means to provide both accurate scoring and objective feedback for martial arts movements has become an issue that needs to be addressed in the field of physical education. This study proposes an intelligent scoring method based on machine learning. Firstly, the key features are extracted by the feature alignment technique, which eliminates the influence of athletes' movement speed, rhythm and duration on the scoring, thus reflecting the athletes' skill level more realistically. Second, to further improve the objectivity and accuracy, an adaptive weighted multi-model decision-making strategy is proposed. In addition, this study is the first to use interpretable artificial intelligence to provide feedback for teaching and learning Wushu. Experimental results indicate that the integrated model using the weighted average strategy not only outperforms other algorithms after feature alignment (on the XSQ dataset MAE is 0.237, RMSE is 0.442, sMAPE is 8.569, R is 0.633, Pearson's correlation is 0.807, ICC is 0.856. on the UMONS-Taichi dataset, MAE is 0.29, RMSE is 0.438, sMAPE is 10.01, R is 0.844, Pearson correlation is 0.921, and ICC is 0.954. on the PBB dataset, MAE is 0.261, RMSE is 0.351, sMAPE is 6.765, R is 0.557, Pearson correlation is 0.753, and ICC is 0.82), but is also close to the performance of human experts. In conclusion, this study not only achieves a performance of movement evaluation comparable to human experts, but also provides a technical framework for the rapid realizing of automatic scoring in other martial arts styles, which will promote the popularization and development of martial arts education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ido Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology is the property of Idokan Poland Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ido Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology is the property of Idokan Poland Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ido Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology is the property of Idokan Poland Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ido Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology is the property of Idokan Poland Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ido Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology is the property of Idokan Poland Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ido Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology is the property of Idokan Poland Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study investigated the effects of a 10-week intervention incorporating karate and yoga on the physical fitness of children aged 10–13. Conducted on a sample of 67 boys, the participants were divided into three groups: karate, yoga, and a control group. Each group underwent physical assessments before and after the intervention, focusing on various fitness components measured by the International Physical Fitness Test (MTSF). The intervention sessions were held twice a week and included warm-up exercises, karate or yoga elements, and cool-down. The results demonstrated significant improvements (p > 0.05) in most physical fitness parameters among the karate and yoga groups in trials: run 50 m, jump, run, endurance, hanging, run, agility, sit-ups, and forward bend. However, there was no significant improvement in hand strength, indicating that the intervention might not have adequately targeted this aspect of fitness. The overall MTSF values changed as follows. For the karate group, the results improved significantly, with the mean increasing by 6.95 ± 0.71. In the yoga group, the results also improved significantly, with the mean increasing by 8.74, while the standard deviation changed by −0.19. In contrast, the control group, which did not participate in additional activities, showed a decline in performance in some areas, notably hand strength and jumping ability. Total MTSF value decreased by −1.05, and the standard deviation changed by 0.71. The findings suggest that both karate and yoga can effectively enhance children's physical fitness, bringing their performance closer to age-adjusted norms. The study highlights the value of structured physical activity programs in promoting the physical development of children. Although no significant differences were observed between the karate and yoga groups, both interventions contributed similarly to overall fitness improvements. Future research should explore additional factors, such as diet and other physical activities, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the intervention's effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Scapular Dyskinesia (SD) is detected more frequently in athletes who do overhead activity sports. SD is more common in kickboxers who actively use their upper extremities. This study was conducted to compare upper extremity stabilization, proprioception and body image in kickboxers with and without SD. Methods: Kickboxing athletes participating in the study were divided into two groups according to whether they had SD or not. Presence of SD with Lateral Scapular Slide Test; Shoulder proprioception sense with digital inclinometer (Dualer IQ Pro, JTECH Medical Industries) at 40, 70, 90 and 135 degrees; Shoulder joint stabilization was evaluated with the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stabilization Test, and body image was evaluated with the Body Assessment Scale. Results: A total of 56 male kickboxing athletes with (n:27) and without (n:29) SD between the ages of 18–35 were included in the study. There was no difference between the groups regarding age, height, weight, body mass index, and 40° with 135° shoulder abduction proprioception sense (p > 0.05). There were differences between the groups in terms of sports history, 70° and 90° shoulder abduction proprioception sense, shoulder stabilization and body image (p: 0.001; p: 0.003; p: 0.003; p: 0.012, respectively). Conclusion: Shoulder proprioception, shoulder joint stabilization, and body image in kickboxers with SD were better than kickboxers without SD. In addition, Kickboxers with SD performed in this sport for a longer time than kickboxers without SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the body posture of kickboxing players. Methods: The study group included people training as kickboxers who actively participated in the training camp of the broad national junior team in the K1 and low-kick kickboxing leagues. The control group consisted of non-training people. The age of the study group ranged from 15 to 23 years. The ages of the control group participants varied from 14 to 20 years. A body posture test was performed by using the Moiré method, in accordance with the guidelines of the manufacturer of the Moiré 4G device. Results: The body posture test performed using the Moiré method showed statistically significant differences between the kickboxing training group and the control group. The parameters that showed statistically significant differences included the size of lordosis (KLL) and the depth of lordosis (GLL) in the lumbar spine. Higher values were observed in the kickboxing training group compared to the control group. There was no statistically significant difference between the kickboxing group and the control group in other parameters. Conclusions: The asymmetrical and flexed posture required during kickboxing training did not negatively influence the competitors' spinal curvatures. Kickboxers had increased lumbar lordosis, which may be related to the specificity of the given discipline (stretching of the hamstrings and specific movements). This is a beneficial phenomenon that may reduce the risk of lower back pain. Kickboxing training did not affect the asymmetry of body posture in the sagittal plane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athletes in Martial Arts must anticipate the target of their opponent's kick or strike to avoid contact. Findings suggest that features, e.g., head and face may play a greater role in predicting opponent action intent compared to global movement information, however little research has explored the role of the head in action anticipation. The aim of this study was to examine the role of the head in predicting the target of a kicking action in martial arts. N = 76 volunteer participants (n = 32 athletes > 5 years of experience, n = 36 non-athletes with no experience) were asked to watch a series of video clips depicting various kicking techniques with differing levels of spatial occlusion of the head. These clips were also temporally occluded compelling participants to predict the landing target of each kick (i.e., head or chest). The hypothesis of the current study is that athletes would be more accurate than non-athletes, but there was no significant effect of expertise on accuracy. Both athletes and non-athletes performed well above chance level performance. Head occlusion did not significantly influence performance and did not interact with expertise, suggesting head and face information did not play a role in predicting opponent action intent. Across participants the landing target of the roundhouse kick was identified with greater accuracy than the front or the back kick. Additionally, participants identified kicks from the rear leg with greater accuracy than the front leg. These findings have significant implications for combat sports where athletes are required to anticipate the action intent of their opponent to formulate an effective defensive response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)