A comparative analysis of repetition speed development in Gyaku-Tsuki and Mae-Geri techniques in junior Kempo athletes

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Repetition speed of specific techniques represents a component of technical and tactical performance in striking-based combat sports. It is closely related to neuromuscular control, intersegmental coordination, and execution efficiency. The development of rapid, repeated, and precise motor actions is commonly addressed within training programs using various methodological approaches. Despite the application of different training methods, their relative effectiveness in enhancing repeated execution speed remains a matter of practical interest. The aim of this study was to comparatively analyze the development of repetition speed in Gyaku-Tsuki and Mae-Geri techniques in 10–12-year-old junior Kempo athletes following an athletics-based training intervention. Materials and Methods. The study included 24 male junior Kempo athletes aged 10–12 years. Participants were divided into an experimental group (n = 12) and a control group (n = 12). Assessments were conducted at two time points (T1 and T2). Repetition speed was evaluated using 10-second maximal execution tests for Gyaku-Tsuki and Mae-Geri. The Wittygate electronic timing system was employed. Statistical analysis included descriptive indicators, the Shapiro–Wilk test, the Mann–Whitney U test, and Levene’s test. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results. The experimental group showed greater improvements than the control group in both tests. For VRGT, the differences were favorable to the experimental group but did not reach statistical significance. In contrast, VRMG showed statistically significant improvements in the experimental group compared with the control group. Conclusions. The results demonstrate that the introduction of athletics-based exercises into the training structure had a positive effect on VRGT and a significant effect on VRMG in junior athletes. These findings support the need for an integrative approach in combat sports training. In this approach, the development of repeated execution speed through athletic means is harmonized with the refinement of Kempo-specific techniques. This contributes to improved training efficiency and sports performance.