THE EFFECT OF A PROPOSED TRAINING PROGRAM ON IMPROVING THE MUSCLE STRENGTH OF THE ARMS WITH THE UPWARD STRIKE SKILL AND THE FEET WITH THE FORWARD STRIKE SKILL AMONG KICKBOXING PLAYERS

Abstract

Introduction: Kickboxing performance relies on forceful actions and repeated strikes, requiring optimum upper and lower limb strength. Objectives: To see whether a proposed strength-oriented training program affects sport-specific arm muscle strength as assessed through upward strike performance in kickboxing players and forward strike performance as secondary outcome. Methods: The research was done using a controlled pre–post study design at Tiger Kickboxing Academy (Zarqa, Jordan) between August 1, 2024 and November 30, 2024. Fourteen male kickboxing athletes (black belt; ≥18 years; M=22.2 years, SD=4.5 years) were allocated to an experimental (n=7) that performed the proposed program plus regular training or a control (n=7) group which continued regular training.  Standardized sport-specific tests were done pre- and post-intervention to measure outcomes. Between-group differences at post-test were assessed through ANCOVA adjusting for baseline. Results: The performance of the upward strike improved in the experimental group (15.33±2.45 to 18.51±2.76) while not improving significantly in the control group (14.82±2.12 to 15.22±2.37); ANCOVA showed a significant group effect (F=22.54, p=0.001). The experimental group exhibited improved forward strike performance from 19.54±3.62 to 22.35±3.33. Conclusion: The training program for kickboxing athletes was helpful in improving sport-specific arm strength as observed. There is a need for larger clinical trials.