Effects of core Balance and Plyometric Training on Anaerobic Power and Dynamic Postural Stability in Youth Taekwondo Athletes

Abstract

PURPOSE: Muscle strength, power, speed, postural stability, and anaerobic power are important physical fitness factors required to perform well in a taekwondo competition. This study aimed to investigate the effects of 8 weeks of core balance and plyometric training on physical fitness in young taekwondo athletes.METHODS: Nine young taekwondo athletes participated in this program. Body composition and relative fitness (muscle power, core strength, agility, postural stability, anaerobic power, and isokinetic muscle function) were measured before and after training. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). A paired t-test (pre vs. post) was used for the analysis.RESULTS:The core strength measured by the sit-up count changed significantly after training (<i>p</i><.05). In case of postural stability, the right absolute reach distance in the Y-balance test improved significantly after training (<i>p</i><.05). In case of anaerobic power, the mean power (<i>p</i><.01) and the peak power (<i>p</i><.01) increased significantly after training.CONCLUSIONS:We demonstrated that 8 weeks of core balance and plyometric training enhanced core strength, balance, and anaerobic power in young taekwondo athletes. Our results suggest that core balance and plyometric training are effective in improving muscle strength, core strength, balance, and anaerobic power.