2021, Volume 17, Issue 1
General physical fitness of recreational krav maga trainees and non-trainees at the age of 18 during the pandemic COVID-19
Kazimierz Witkowski1, Jacek Bajor1, Bartłomiej Gąsienica Walczak2
1Faculty of Physical Education and Sports, University School of Physical Education in Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
2Health Institute, Podhale State College of Applied Sciences in Nowy Targ, Nowy Targ, Poland
Author for correspondence: Bartłomiej Gąsienica Walczak; Health Institute, Podhale State College of Applied Sciences in Nowy Targ, Nowy Targ, Poland
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Abstract
Background & Study Aim: The ability to defend oneself is a socially important element from the perspective of security, law and personal dignity. Therefore, fighting systems are popularized as decent self-defence to which all have the right. The purpose of the study was to verify the general physical fitness of 18-year-old males training krav maga in relation to their non-training peers.
Material & Methods: The International Physical Fitness Test, which consists of 8 trials, was used. Eighteen-year-old males (n = 40), including 20 recreationally trained in krav maga for one year (two times a week for 90 minutes each) and their 20 non-trained peers, were examined.
Results: The recreational krav maga trainees showed significantly better results in the 50-meter run, 1000-meter run, pull-up bar overhang, 4 x 10-meter shuttle run, sit-ups from lying on their backs, and trunk bending while standing. The results of krav maga training show that the only motor ability that exceeds the average standard for the Polish population of eighteen-year-old boys is agility (measured by trial 4 x 10 m of runes).
Conclusions: Recreational krav maga training for one year among 18-year-old adepts significantly differentiates their physical fitness in relation to their peers in terms of speed, endurance, arm muscle strength, agility, abdominal muscle strength, and flexibility. However, restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic regarding limited use of sports facilities and direct contact with trainers are documented by lower results of tests of general physical fitness compared to those practicing martial arts in comfortable circumstances.
Key words: International Physical Fitness Test, self-defense, judo