Improving peak torque strength of male karate students after eight weeks of strength training

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the effects of an eight-week strength development program on male karate students from Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM). Objectives: The main objective was to assess the impact of this strength development program on key muscle groups crucial for karate performance, including the head, hip, elbow, and shoulder regions. Method: Eleven male karate practitioners from VNU-HCM participated in an experimental eight-week strength development program. Force torque measurements of the head, hip, elbow, and shoulder muscle groups were taken before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate the significance of observed changes. Results: The eight-week strength development program resulted in significant enhancements in the force torque of the head, hip, elbow, and shoulder muscle groups among male karate practitioners from VNU-HCM. These improvements were statistically significant, with values ranging from P < 0.05 to P < 0.001. Conclusion: The study concludes that the eight-week strength development program is appropriate and effective for increasing muscle contraction force in male karate practitioners at VNU-HCM. The significant increases in peak torque observed in the head, hip, elbow, and shoulder muscles underscore the program's efficacy. These findings offer valuable insights for strength training and can be a reference for future studies or training programs. Moreover, the results suggest that such a program can be seamlessly integrated into the training routine of karate practitioners to enhance their overall performance and muscle strength. This study establishes a foundational understanding of how targeted strength training can benefit specific muscle groups crucial for martial arts performance, thereby providing valuable insights for further research and practical applications in sports training.