INFLUENCE OF SQUAT TRAINING ON LOWER LIMB MUSCULAR STRENGTH IN KUNG FU ATHLETES

INFLUÊNCIA DO TREINAMENTO DE AGACHAMENTO SOBRE A FORÇA MUSCULAR DOS MEMBROS INFERIORES EM ATLETAS DE KUNG FU

INFLUENCIA DEL ENTRENAMIENTO DE SENTADILLAS EN LA FUERZA MUSCULAR DE LOS MIEMBROS INFERIORES EN ATLETAS DE KUNG FU

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Aerobic and anaerobic skills are essential characteristics in Kung Fu competitions. Research concerning their repercussions on athletes’ body composition has gained emphasis due to increased sports competitiveness. Squat training is used in martial arts, but there are no reports about the results in kung fu practitioners.

Objective

Investigate the effects of squat training on lower limb strength in Kung Fu athletes.

Methods

18 martial arts athletes were randomly divided into dynamic preparation activities with stretching (control), squat and half-squat exercises.

Results

The paired T-test result of the control subjects was P=0.578, and the paired squat test result, relative to the control group, before and after the experiment was P=0.164. The power gain in the body posture trained with squat was 24.14 z 9.81KG, and in the half squat was 23.10±11.75KG. The strength gain in the body posture with half squat is 29.75±10.79KG versus 20.59±12.59KG in the squat test.

Conclusion

After six weeks of training, both the squat and half squat groups significantly improved the maximum results of the lower limb strength tests. The muscular strength of athletes is improved throughout the range of motion, reducing the injury risk on the athletes. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies - Investigating the result.

Resistance Training; Martial Arts; Muscle Strength