2022, Volume 18, Issue 1
The general physical fitness of Polish military cadets practicing karate kyokushin
Kazimierz Witkowski1, Maciej Szpik2
1Faculty of Physical Education and Sports, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
2Faculty of Security Studies, General Tadeusz Kościuszko Military University of Land Forces, Wrocław, Poland
Author for correspondence: Kazimierz Witkowski; Faculty of Physical Education and Sports, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wrocław, Poland; email: kazimierz.witkowski@awf.wroc.pl
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Abstract
Background & Study Aim: Among the combat methods in the Polish Army, kyokushin karate is widely practiced. Combat proficiency depends on a high level of physical fitness (in a general/comprehensive sense). Therefore, the purpose of the study was the knowledge about the general physical fitness of Polish military cadets practicing kyokushin karate.
Material & Methods: The cadets training kyokushin karate (n = 77, including 64 men and 13 women) from the Officer Training School during their one-year training at the General Tadeusz Kosciuszko Military University of Land Forces were examined. A set of tests and standards was used to verify the physical fitness of Polish soldiers. The set includes 4 tests for men and 4 for women. The tests were carried out in three stages to verify the effectiveness of physical fitness formation.
Results: Between the first and second stages of the study, there was a statistically significant in a single sample (for men). In contrast, between the first and third and between the second and third stages of the study, there was progression that was statistically significant in all samples for men and women.
Conclusions: The studied soldiers significantly increased their level of physical fitness during their one-year training at the General Tadeusz Kościuszko Military University of Land Forces. The role of physical fitness is important in building soldiers’ combat readiness.
Key words: physical culture, combat sports, self-defense systems, safety, Polish Army
