The Effect of Sports Massage and Active Recovery on Fatigue Parameters among Karate Athletes

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of sports massage and active recovery on fatigue parameters (HR, RPE, and TQR) in 32 Karate athletes. Using a two-group pre and post-test design, participants were allocated to sports massage (n=16) and active recovery groups based on sex and resting heart rates. Both groups engaged in 90 minutes of submaximal karate training, followed by pre-test measurements, a 15-minute recovery period, and post-test assessments. Paired t-tests analyzed within-group HR and RPE differences, while independent tests compared HR, RPE, and TQR between groups. Results showed significant reductions in HR (p< 0.001) and RPE (p< 0.001) for both interventions. No significant differences were observed in post-test HR (p=0.427) and TQR (p=0.524) between groups. However, the sports massage group had significantly lower post-test RPE (4.7 ± 1.2) compared to the active recovery group (3.6 ± 1.2, p=0.013). In conclusion, both interventions improved HR and RPE, with sports massage demonstrating superior effects on reducing RPE. Future research should explore long-term effects, optimal timing, and personalized approaches for athletes.