Karate Athletes Research Articles

Effectiveness of rubber and dumbbell exercises on kisame tsuki’s punching velocity in karate athletes

Effectiveness of rubber and dumbbell exercises on kisame tsuki’s punching velocity in karate athletes

Physical test instrument: a development study for junior Karateka in the kata category

Good physical condition is very important for the karate martial arts branch, especially the kata category. Where physical condition is the main supporting factor so that the ability of kihon, kumite and kata karateka can develop properly. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a valid and reliable karate physical condition test and measurement instrument for the kata category so that it can be used in karate development. The purpose of this study was to develop tests and compile a norm instrument for junior category karate physical tests aged 16-17 years that can be used as a measuring tool to test the physical condition of karateka. Research and development (R&D) method. This research was conducted at a karate dojo under the guidance of the Indonesian Karate-Do Sports Federation (FORKI). Small-scale trial subjects included 55 respondents and a large trial group included 114 respondents. The karate trial subjects were 16-17 years old (junior) and determined the trial sample with purposive sampling technique. Data analysis techniques using correlation tests, validity tests and reliability tests. The results of this study showed two series of karate physical test instruments for junior karate athletes (aged 16-17 years) male and female consisting of; V Sit And Reach, Hexagonal Obstacle, Stork Standing balance, Throw Catch Ball tennis, Two Hands Medicine Ball Put, Standing Broad Jump, 2 Minute Sit Ups, Multistage Fitness Test. The validity of the eigenvalue of factor analysis > 1 and can be said to be valid. Reliability is done by re-testing or correlation between the same groups for two treatments. Based on the difference significance test, it shows that t-count = 3.617, df = 59 and P-Value = 0.01 <0.05, which means there is a significant difference in the pre-test and post-test results. Based on this information, it can be said that the physical test instrument model developed is effective, so it can be said that the test used is reliable. In conclusion, 8 items of karate physical test instruments have been produced for junior kata karate category athletes, the preparation of karate physical test norms for junior kata category athletes, and 8 items of physical test instruments have been produced that are effectively used to improve the achievements of junior male and female karate athletes. It is recommended that research be carried out on a larger scope of subjects and a wider research location, so that this measuring instrument product is more tested for feasibility. Keywords: Test Instruments, Condition Physique, Karate juniors, Category Kata

Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) as a Conditioning Activity for Roundhouse Kick (mawashi geri) Performance in Karate.

Karate athletes strategically use lower-limb techniques in combat, with the roundhouse kick (mawashi geri) being highly effective in kumite. To quickly improve the technical performance before training or competitions, conditioning activities (CAs) are often utilized. Recently, Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) has emerged as a potential conditioning activity (CA). This study aimed to analyze the acute effects of WBV as a CA on the performance of the mawashi geri. The sample included sixteen male karate athletes. The study had a familiarization and two experimental sessions: one with WBV and the other without (NWBV), conducted randomly and counterbalanced, each preceded and followed by a mawashi geri assessment on a force platform. During the CA intervention, the participants performed four sets of isometric half-squats on a vibration platform at a frequency of 26 Hz and an amplitude of 4 mm in the WBV condition, while the platform was off in the NWBV condition. A significant reduction in the mawashi geri attack phase time was observed under the WBV condition [pre: 0.31 ± 0.03 s; post: 0.30 ± 0.03 s] compared to the NWBV condition [pre: 0.31 ± 0.04 s; post: 0.32 ± 0.03 s] (p = 0.02). However, no differences were noted regarding the impact force or other kinetic variables between the conditions. Therefore, WBV did not increase the performance of the kinetic and kinematic variables of the mawashi geri in karate athletes, but it is possible that there is a positive effect on attack time, suggesting that further studies with different vibration protocol configurations would be beneficial.

Sensitivity to rewards and punishments in karate athletes: an examination of the temperamental characteristics and profile of karate competitors according to the revised reinforcement sensitivity theory

BackgroundThe revised Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (rRST) assumes the existence of three systems controlling motivation and behavior: the behavioral activation system (BAS), the behavioral inhibition system (BIS), and the fight-flight-freeze system (FFFS). This study aims to examine for the first time the features of BAS, BIS, and FFFS among karate players in comparison with athletes representing other sports disciplines (physical education students) and physically inactive people. The specific configuration of temperament traits and profiles characterizing karate players will also be found.MethodsThe cross-sectional study was performed among male karate athletes and control groups (physically active and inactive men). The study used the modified Reinforcement Sensitivity Questionnaire (rRSQ) to measure BAS, BIS, and FFFS.ResultsThe ANOVA showed that both karate competitors KS and KK scored significantly higher in BAS than the sample of PI participants. In addition, KK athletes scored significantly lower in Freeze than in PI and KS groups. Research also suggests that KK athletes presented significantly lower overall scores in FFFS than PI individuals. Furthermore, the results of K-means cluster analysis indicated the existence of two distinct patterns of temperamental traits: (1) Cluster 1 suggests avoidance tendencies (high Flight and Freeze, and low BAS, BIS, and Fight levels); while (2) the Cluster 2 describes approach tendencies (high BIS, BAS and Fight scores, and low levels of Flight and Freeze). Significantly more KK athletes were included in Cluster 2 than in Cluster 1, compared to PI, PA, and KS samples.ConclusionsThe research indicates that individuals engaged in karate, particularly those practicing Kyokushin karate, tend to exhibit a heightened sensitivity to rewards (high BAS). This finding holds significance for coaches and sports instructors, suggesting that motivating karate athletes through incentives is more effective, while the use of punishment should be minimized during training. Additionally, the study proposes that the practice of Kyokushin karate has the potential to significantly diminish the freezing response in threatening situations and enhance overall fear management by reducing levels of the Fight-Flight-Freeze System (FFFS). Consequently, the Kyokushin karate style may be considered more advantageous than the Karate Shotokan (KS) style in these aspects, despite both styles contributing to the improvement of BAS. Given that a higher BAS is linked to positive emotions, optimism, and happiness, karate training emerges as a form of health intervention, acting as a preventive measure against mental disorders and promoting overall well-being.

Effects of Carbohydrate and Caffeine Mouth Rinsing Methods on Repetitive Kick Force and Duration, and Hand Reaction Time in Karate Athletes

The effect of carbohydrate (CHO) and caffeine (CAF) solutions rinsing in the mouth in combat sports where high-intensity movements are performed intermittently despite fatigue is unknown. This research was carried out to investigate the effects of rinsing CHO and CAF solutions in the mouth on kick force, duration, and hand reaction time in karate athletes. 16 male trained karate players (average age 21.6 years, weekly training time 8.4 hours, training experience 7.8 years) voluntarily participated in the study. In a replicated, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and crossover design study, after the 10 seconds mouth rinsing of CHO (6.4% maltodextrin), CAF (1.2%), and placebo (water) solutions in sessions, repeated sprint test (6sec sprint ×10 repetitions, with 30sec rest) on a bicycle ergometer, after light stimuli kick test (consecutive 5 times), hand reaction time test (consecutive 5 times), kick test (consecutive 5 times), hand reaction time test (consecutive 5 times) were performed respectively. The results obtained from the tests in the constructed protocol by causing fatigue (peak power, average power, minimum power, power drop; kicking reaction time, strength, power, and time; hand reaction time) were compared between sessions. The highest peak power and average power outputs (W/kg) obtained from the repeated sprint test were obtained in the CAF session, and the best kick and hand reaction times (ms) were obtained in the CAF session in the 2nd set of tests. The results obtained from this study suggest that the CAF mouth rinsing method can improve kick and hand reaction time despite fatigue in karate competitions.

Reliability of a kinetic and kinematic assessment procedure for kicks in combat sports

ABSTRACT 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.

Leg Muscle Power, Speed, and Flexibility Correlate with Mawashi Geri Chudan Kicking Performance in 12-14-Year-Old Boys at Dojo Victori's Karate

The purpose of this research is to know the relationship between legs muscles’ power, speed, and flexibility with mawashi geri chudan kicking toward boys Dojo Victori’s Karate athletes aged 12-14 years in 2022. The research method used is quantitative research through an experimental approach. Sampling technique in this research is purposive sampling with some requirements for population of boys’ Dojo Victori. This research is held starting from October 26th to November 16th, 2022. Statistical results show that legs muscle power is significantly related to the mawashi geri chudan kicking of 40.96%; leg muscle speed is significantly related to the mawashi gery chudan kicking of 56.25%; and leg muscle flexibility is significantly related to the mawashi gery chudan kicking of 72.25%. Subsequent statistical tests on all components have a simultaneously and significantly relationship to the kicking technique of 75.69%. Thus, the research will provide insight and knowledge for karate coaches to pay attention to the physical fitness components of their athletes, such as power, speed, and flexibility in the leg muscles. In addition, it is needed for further research on other components of physical fitness so that coaches get a complete and comprehensive understanding for the development of their athlete's abilities.

Coach Leadership Style and Anxiety of West Java Karate Athletes

Anxiety in athletes is a problem that has not been resolved by coaches, especially in the sport of karate. The leadership style that a coach has is one of the factors that can cause anxiety in athletes. This research aims to examine the relationship between a coach's leadership style and athlete anxiety, and to find out what kind of leadership style really influences athlete anxiety. Using descriptive methods, and a quantitative research approach, with a correlational research design which involves collecting data to determine whether there is a relationship between the two variables. The sample in this study involved 15 West Java karate athletes (8 women, 7 men). By using a questionnaire in the form of SAS-2 (Sport Anxiety Scale) and Leadership Scale for Sport (LSS) which athletes fill out via Google form. The results of the study showed that there was a significant relationship between the coach's leadership style and the anxiety of karate athletes. The conclusion of this research is that the coach's leadership style and anxiety are two things that are related to each other, so both need to be considered in the process of coaching karate athletes. Therefore, the author suggests coaches pay more attention to their athletes' anxiety levels.

The effect of rubber training on Kisame Tsuki's punch speed in Karate

This research aims to determine: (1) the effect of rubber training on Kisame Tsuki's punches; (2) increase in Kisame Tsuki's punch speed. The design of this research is quantitative using a Two Group Pretest Posttest design, namely an experimental design carried out on two different groups, namely the rubber group and the control group. The population of this study were senior athletes aged 21 years and over. The sample for this study was 14 kumite athletes taken using a random sampling technique. The data analysis technique used was the Independent Sample T-test with a significance level of ? = 0.05. The research results are as follows. (1) There is an influence of rubber training on Kisame Tsuki Sig's punches. (2-tailed) (0.004) < 0.05 and also the calculated t value (3.613) > t table (2.447); (2) There was a significant increase in Kisame Tsuki's punch speed as seen from the rubber group's gain score of 0.49, which means there was a moderate increase. So training using rubber tools has an influence in increasing the speed of Kisame Tsuki's punches in UNJ Student Karate athletes.

Correlation Analysis of Body Fat Percentage, Muscle Mass, and Bone Mass with Punch Speed in Kumite Karate Athletes

Objective. Anthropometry is recognized as a significant determinant of athletic performance. Despite extensive research on anthropometric factors in conventional sports, limited attention has been given to specific martial arts disciplines, notably in elite karate athletes. Hence, this investigation seeks to explore the correlation between muscle mass, body fat percentage, bone mass, and punch speed among karate athletes. Methods. A total 15 male elite-level karate athletes participated in thsi study. Body weight, body fat percentage, bone mass, and muscle mass were assessed utilizing the Xiaomi Scale 2, whereas punch speed was gauged employing the Hykso Punch Tracker. Results. There was a positive relationship with body fat percentage of 0.679, right speed had a positive relationship with body fat percentage of 0.609, and maximal speed had a negative relationship with body fat percentage of -0.692. While the muscle mass variable shows a correlation value with a left speed of -0.687, at the right speed of -0.616, and at a maximum speed of 0.701. In addition, the bone mass variable has a correlation value with left speed of -0.734, right speed of 0.592, and maximum speed of 0.805. Conclusion. A positive correlation between body fat percentage, muscle mass, and bone mass with punch speed among karate athletes. Athletes exhibiting lower muscle mass and higher body fat tended to demonstrate slower punching speeds. Consequently, the assessment of body fat percentage, muscle mass, and bone mass emerges as a valuable tool for informing the technical aspects of training, particularly in enhancing punch speed for karate practitioners. Keywords: Body Fat, Muscle Mass, Bone Mass, Punch, Karate

Analysis of the Use of Push Up Board Aids as an Alternative Exercise for Biceps and Triceps Brachii Muscles in the Kediri Regency Karate Sports Branch

In the sport of karate there are punching movements that center on muscle strength in athletes. To get the maximum blow, proper training is needed on the muscles, the imposition of muscles for this blow movement on the biceps and triceps brachii muscles. There are innovative tools that can be used for alternative training for karateka athletes, namely the push up board tool that has been developed according to the needs of karate athletes. This research was conducted with the aim of knowing the attractiveness, safety and feasibility of push up board aids to help karate athletes train the biceps and triceps bracii muscles as an alternative to karate athletes' punch training. This research uses descriptive Quantitative research methods. The data collection technique used in this quantitative research is by direct observation and distributing questionnaires. The results obtained in this study are a percentage of 51.4% based on trials on respondents and declared “Worthy”.

Developing PETTLEP Imagery Model to Improve Self-Efficacy of Karate Athletes

This study aims to develop the PETTLEP Imagery training model to improve self-efficacy of karate athletes. It is a research and development which used ADDIE model. The development of this training model involved four expert lecturers in sport psychology and coaching science as validators. The sample was 59 karate athletes aged 20.2±3.5 with 7.8±8.4 years of training experience, which were grouped for small-scale, large-scale, and effectiveness tests. The results of this study validated this training program using the Aiken V formula with a value of 0.880 so that the program was declared valid. Small-scale trials on 12 karate athletes showed a feasibility level of 80%, and large-scale trials on 30 athletes showed a feasibility level of 86%. Then, the effectiveness test using the t-test on 17 athletes showed a significance value of 0.000<0.05 and t of 4.284. Thus, PETTLEP Imagery has a significant and positive effect on self-efficacy of karate athletes. In conclusion, the PETTLEP Imagery model has substantial implications for improving the self-efficacy of karate athletes in various ages and skill levels. From the results, it is expected that this study can provide insight into academics, coaches, and especially athletes in terms of providing appropriate, effective, and efficient training programs. Further studies need to explore the effect of PETTLEP Imagery on athletes’ psychological and performance aspects. Keywords: PETTLEP Imagery, Self-Efficacy, Karate

Motivation-Centred Innovative Coaching for Taekwondo and Karate Athletes in Yogyakarta and Bujumbura Cities

Martial arts coaching techniques that are research-evidenced create engaging and fulfilling training environments for athletes. This descriptive quantitative research investigated Taekwondo and Karate coaching practices focused on athletes' sports participation achievement motivation. The study includes 188 Karate and Taekwondo athletes (100 boys, 88 girls) from Yogyakarta and Bujumbura cities, selected through probability sampling method and simple random sampling techniques. The data collection instrument was a Sport Achievement Motivation Scale, adapted from the Achievement Motivation Scale. Data analysis procedure using Two-Way ANOVA with R program and descriptive statistics. Findings indicate significant differences in sport participation achievement motivation between Taekwondo and Karate martial artists from Bujumbura and Yogyakarta. In addition, motivational drives vary between male and female athletes, irrespective of country. The dominant motivational profile is Approach-Success in Training (MST), with 8 out of 14 agreed items falling within this dimension. Overall, athletes display an "Agree" level of sports participation achievement motivation (x̄ =-0.473 logits), highlighting the importance of motivational profile-centred coaching for enhanced success. These findings may guide Taekwondo and Karate coaches in tailoring methods and interventions to align with athletes' motivational profiles. Keywords: athletes, achievement motivation, martial arts, karate, taekwondo.

Identifying the technical and tactical characteristics of Olympic medallists in karate

This study primarily aimed to conduct an observational analysis of Olympic finalists’ performance to determine the patterns and characteristics of karate at the highest level of competition. Due to the need for a complete analytical system, we can use this study to create useful information about the planning process based on winning strategies. The research is based on an analysis of athletes who go to the final of the Tokyo Olympic Games. Thirty fights in the male competition were analysed. Prevalence, percentage frequency, and nonparametric tests were used (Fisher’s exact test, the likelihood ratio test, and Pearson’s chi-square test) for data analysis. Quantity indicators showed that male karate athletes tend to use upper limb karate techniques (53.70%) more than lower limb (35.65%) and a combination (upper and lower or lower and upper limb 10.65%). The difference in scoring by two tactical models of attack and counterattack was significant, and 69.2% of the points were scored by attacking. Moreover, the results suggest a predominant scoring technique using the Kisami-Tsuki model has the highest number of attacks. Considering these characteristics can provide important indicators for technical and tactical coaches and physical trainers to design special training conditions for their athletes.

Ultrasound-guided determination demonstrates influence of age, sex and type of sport on medial femoral condyle cartilage thickness in children and adolescents.

To analyse the reliability of ultrasound-guided measurement of the cartilage thickness at the medial femoral condyle in athletically active children and adolescents before and after mechanical load in relation to age, sex and type of sport. Three successive measurements were performed in 157 participants (median/min-max age: 13.1/6.0-18.0 years, 106 males) before and after mechanical load by squats at the same site of the medial femoral condyle by defined transducer positioning. Test-retest reliability was examined using Cronbach's calculation. Differences in cartilage thickness were analysed with respect to age, sex and type of practiced sports, respectively. Excellent reliability was achieved both before and after mechanical load by 30 squats with a median cartilage thickness of 1.9 mm (range: 0.5-4.8 mm) before and 1.9 mm (0.4-4.6 mm) after mechanical load. Male cartilages were thicker (p < 0.01) before (median: 2.0 mm) and after (2.0 mm) load when compared to female cartilage (before: 1.6 mm; after: 1.7 mm). Median cartilage thickness was about three times higher in karate athletes (before: 2.3 mm; after: 2.4 mm) than in sports shooters (0.7; 0.7 mm). Cartilage thickness in track and field athletes, handball players and soccer players were found to lay in-between. Sport type related thickness changes after mechanical load were not significant. Medial femoral condyle cartilage thickness in childhood correlates with age, sex and practiced type of sports. Ultrasound is a reliable and simple, pain-free approach to evaluate the cartilage thickness in children and adolescents. Level III.

Facial fingerprint analysis using artificial intelligence techniques and its ability to respond quickly during karate (kumite)

The document discusses the use of facial fingerprint analysis using artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to quickly respond during karate matches. The integration of AI with sports technical analysis has the potential to improve the technical and tactical level of athletes. Traditional methods for tactical intelligence analysis in competitive sports have limitations such as high cost, data loss, delay, and low accuracy, but the use of convolutional neural networks and graph convolution models has shown promising results in the automatic, intelligent analysis of karate athletes' technical action recognition, action frequency statistics, and trajectory tracking. Eye-tracking technology is also used to analyse various aspects of performance and help identify visual strategies employed by athletes. By analysing video footage of facial biometrics during karate competition performances, performance criteria can be measured based on relevant skills in karate, and an objective scoring rubric can be developed for each criterion. Then, the scores can be compared between performers to see individual strengths and weaknesses and to optimize training, technique, and performance. Ultimately, the study seeks to investigate how to improve performance and decision-making in kumite by using AI techniques to analyse the eye print during an exhibition performance.

Improving the performance of karate athletes: fartlek and circuit training in the increasing VO2max

This research problem arises because increasing VO2max is crucial in improving the performance of kumite karate athletes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of fartlek training and circuit training on increasing VO2max of Inkanas Resmata Madiun Kota kumite athletes. This research was conducted using experimental methods. The study's population comprised 20 kumite karate athletes from the Inkanas Resmata dojo of the Madiun Kota police department. The sampling technique employed is the matched-pair method. The study sample included 17 kumite karate athletes from the Inkanas Resmata dojo at the Madiun Kota police department, each receiving the treatment 16 times. The research instrument used is the Multi-Step Fitness Test (MFT). The data analysis technique used in this study is a t-test to determine the comparison of fartlek training and circuit training exercises in increasing VO2max. Results of the study: the first hypothesis for the fartlek group is known that the t-test value is calculated at −12,520 with a significance value of 0.000. For the circuit training group, the hypothesis is confirmed with a calculated t-test value of −9.168 and a significance value of 0.000. From the test results using the independent sample T test, it is known that the t value is calculated with a significance value of 0.000 &gt; 0.05. The strong conclusion of this study is that both fartlek training and circuit training significantly increase the VO2max of kumite karate athletes Dojo Inkanas Resmata Polres Madiun Kota, providing clear evidence of the effectiveness of both exercise methods in improving the physical condition of athletes.

The results of the performances of Ukrainian athletes at the international competitions of the premier karate league

Studying the results of the participation of karate athletes of different age categories in international competitions is a significant argument in the development of karate. Studying the results of the participation of Ukrainian karate players in the championships of Ukraine, Europe and the World to identify directions and tasks for the further development of karate. Purpose: to establish indicators of the performance of Ukrainian karatekas at the competitions of the Premier Karate League (WKF version) during 2018−2022. Methods: theoretical analysis and generalization of data, analysis of documentary materials, methods of mathematical statistics. The research used the method of analysis of documentary materials for the analysis of protocols, provisions, regulations of competitions. Analyzed during 2018-2022: Premier League: 2018 – Istanbul, Dubai, Paris; 2019 – Paris, Dubai, Rabat, Shanghai, Tokyo, Moscow, Madrid; 2020 – Paris, Dubai, Salzburg, Rabat, Madrid; 2021 – Lisbon, Baku, Morocco, moscow; 2022 – Fujikura, Matosinshos, Rabat, Baku, Los Angeles. The results were studied in the weight categories -60, -67, -75, -84, 84+ among men; -50, -55, -61, -68, 68+ among women. The results. Participating in Premier Karate League competitions is important for athletes as it allows them to gain rating points and improve their position in the WKF World Ranking. The most successful Ukrainian athletes at the Premier League competitions are A. Terlyuga (-55 kg) and S. Horuna from Lviv (-75 kg). They regularly choose prize places at these competitions, including gold medals. Ukrainian athletes in the -50 kg weight category also performed successfully: K. Kryva; -61 kg. A. Seryogin and O. Sholokhova; D. Shostak (from Lviv); -68 kg H. Melnyk; +68 kg A. Stepashko, was repeatedly awarded the prize-winner of the Premier League competition. only that man in weight categories -75 kg - A. Zaplitny; -84 kg V. Chobotar and +84 kg R. Talibov, also choose prize places at the most accepted regular competitions. Conclusions. The training of karate athletes is a multi-component system, all parts of which are in complex interaction. During the years 2018–2022, representatives of Ukraine systematically take prize places in the most prestigious and ranking series of competitions of the Premier Karate League.

Using virtual reality-based physical activity to change the mental health and cognitive function of karate athletes

Purpose. The use of virtual reality technology in the field of sports is increasing, but there is a lack of evidence reporting the effects of virtual reality to change the level of mental health and cognitive function in Karate athletes through mixed research methods. This study to determine how virtual reality-based physical activity affected athletes' levels of mental health and cognitive function.&#x0D; Material and methods. This study involved male Karate athletes from Cendikia Leadership School in Indonesia (n=30). The athletes were allocated to the experimental group (n=15) and control group (n=15).&#x0D; Results. First finding of the quantitative study showed that before the experiment there was no difference in the scores of mental health and cognitive function in the two groups. The second finding showed that there was a difference after the experiment. In qualitative study, athletes revealed their perception that the advantages of virtual reality-based physical activity were fun, easy to implement, and can be carried out without the supervision of a coach. Moreover, they also mentioned the weakness of this tool, namely not all athletes have virtual reality tools, the impact to their eye health, exercise must be carried out in a safe place.&#x0D; Conclusions. Thus, this study concluded that physical activity based on virtual reality was proven to be effective in changing of mental health and cognitive function of Karate athletes.

Effects of Warm-Ups with Weighted Vests and Resistance Bands on Physical Fitness and Combat Ability of Kumite Karate Athletes.

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a dynamic warm-up either with weighted vests (WVs) or with resistance bands (RBs) may enhance the physical fitness and combat ability of kumite karate athletes. Nine male athletes (age range from 16 to 30 years), participated in this study. Athletes followed three different warm-up programs in a randomized order: (a) with their body mass only (C), (b) with a WV of 10% load of their body mass and (c) with a wearable RB of 10% tension of their body mass. Following the warm-up, athletes performed the following tests: countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump (LJ), punch and kick reaction time, bench press throws, T-Half test and the kick frequency test. CMJ remained unaltered following the WV and RB warm-up compared to the C. Standing long jump increased significantly following the RB warm-up compared to the C (2.2 ± 1.7%, p = 0.011). Punch reaction time was significantly shortened following the RB warm-up compared to C (-7.3 ± 5.9%, p = 0.019). No changes were observed for kick reaction time, bench press throws or the T-Half test. The kick decrement index, measured from the kick frequency test, was significantly decreased following the RB warm-up compared to the C (33.1 ± 20.2%, p = 0.011). These results suggest that an RB warm-up may significantly enhance the physical fitness and combat ability in kumite karate athletes.