Relationships between selected performance parameters and body composition in karate

Abstract

Introduction: Studying the somatic characteristics of karate athletes can provide specific details on the morphological and functional factors best suited for this combat sport. Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between selected aerobic and anaerobic parameters and the body composition of karate athletes. Materials and Methods: The study included 6 male karate athletes, medalists from European and world championships in senior categories, with a mean age of 28 3 years. The inclusion criteria were training experience and sports skill level. Body composition was assessed using bioimpedance analysis. To evaluate special aerobic endurance parameters, a specific karatespecific aerobic test was used, along with monitoring of heart rate and changes in blood lactate levels. The Wingate test was chosen to determine the level of anaerobic performance. Results: The findings of the present study indicate that body composition is correlated with aerobic and anaerobic variables of karate athletes. Conclusions: These results indicate that karate athletes with a lower body fat mass perform techniques during the fight with higher intensity but with less power. On the contrary, those with a higher percentage of body fat perform techniques with less intensity but they use more power to perform a punch or kick. A low percentage of body fat and body fat mass have a positive effect on the level of anaerobic capacity, which increases with decreasing percentage and amount of body fat.