Dariusz Gierczuk

Success factors in elite WTF taekwondo competitors

Background The aim of the study was to identify selected success factors of elite Olympic taekwondo competitors in the context of medals that they have or have not won during Polish Senior Championships (PSCs). Material/Methods: Sixty-four elite male taekwondo competitors took part in the study. The competitors were divided into two groups on the basis of their achievements: PSC medallists and non-medallists. Factors determining sports success were modelled with the use of a general linear model (GLM). The procedure lasted until the minimum of the quality criterion, i.e., the Akaike information criterion (AIC), was reached. Results: Successful competitors (medallists) demonstrated significantly better technique, conditioning and flexibility parameters. Technical skills (e.g., strikes and side and roundhouse kicks), speed, dynamic strength and endurance were the factors that contributed to the achievement of excellent results in taekwondo. Conclusions: The research results revealed groups of success factors in taekwondo at a national level. Variables concerning kicks exerted the greatest influence on point scores (360° dollyo chagi montong – 41% and dollyo chagi – 31%).

INFLUENCE OF TRAINING ON ANAEROBIC POWER AND CAPACITY OF UPPER AND LOWER LIMBS IN YOUNG GRECO-ROMAN WRESTLERS

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of training on selected markers of anaerobic capacity of upper and lower limbs in male, Greco-Roman wrestlers from 16 to 19 years of age. The study was conducted four times at one-year intervals on the same group of male competitors (n=12). Every year at the beginning of the second preparatory period all wrestlers performed arm cranking and leg cycling 30 s Wingate tests. The relative peak and mean power of upper limbs were higher in 17-, 18-, and 19-year-old wrestlers compared to 16-year-old ones, but were similar in 17- and 18-year-old athletes. The highest peak and mean power of legs were found in 19-year-old wrestlers. In 18-year-old athletes, the peak power was lower than in 17-year-olds and was similar to 16-year-old wrestlers. The relative mean power in the group of 18-year-old athletes was lower compared to 16- and 17-year-old ones, but it was similar in 17- and 19-year-old wrestlers. Changes in the levels of the relative peak and mean power of upper and lower limb muscles in wrestlers occurred at different periods between the age of 16 and 19. However, it seems that inappropriately chosen training loads may reduce short-term power outputs despite age correct increase in anthropometric parameters. Wrongly applied training did not bring positive effects and could inhibit, for some time, the natural development of power in young wrestlers.

Reliability and Accuracy of Batak Lite Tests Used for Assessing Coordination Motor Abilities in Wrestlers

Abstract Introduction. The aim of this work was to assess selected validity criteria of motor tasks included in Batak Lite. The tasks are used to control coordination motor abilities in athletes of different sports. Material and methods. Twenty male Greco-Roman wrestlers from the sports school SMS in Radom were included in the study. They were 17-18 years of age and their training experience was 4-7.5 years long. The validity of motor tasks was determined on the basis of two criteria, i.e. reliability and diagnostic accuracy. To define the reliability of the tests, the research was carried out twice with an interval of 5-7-days (test-retest). Diagnostic accuracy of selected indices was determined with the help of three main criteria. The analysis included 6 motor tasks performed with the use of Batak Lite. Results. Tests I, II, IV and V are characterised by reliability coefficients higher than 0.50 and, regardless of the assumed accuracy criterion, by coefficients higher than 0.30. Thus, they meet the validity requirements within the assessed criteria. The highest accuracy coefficients were observed in motor tests assessing quick reaction (r = 0.46-0.63), simple reaction including sensory (r = 0.61-0.78), motor (r = 0.33-0.46) and complex (r = 0.34-0.49) reactions as well as spatio-temporal orientation (r = 0.33-0.49) and movement coupling (r = 0.34-0.49). Conclusions. Four Batak Lite tests displayed sufficient reliability and diagnostic accuracy. Therefore, they can be implemented in the training process of wrestlers. The strongest correlation was noted between Batak Lite tests and motor tests that assessed quick reaction, spatio-temporal orientation and movement coupling.

Emotional Intelligence and the Sense of Efficiency of Coaching and Instructing in Wrestling

Emotional Intelligence and the Sense of Efficiency of Coaching and Instructing in Wrestling Introduction. The aim of this study was to diagnose the level of emotional intelligence and sense of efficiency among the occupational group of coaches and instructors in wrestling. Material and methods. The study involved 27 participants of a training course for coaches and instructors in training (25 men and 2 women). The basic methods of research involved the Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire INTE and the GSES scale for measurement of the sense of efficacy. Their use allowed us to diagnose the average level of emotional intelligence and the sense of self-efficacy. Results. Coaches and instructors are characterised by average level of emotional intelligence and the sense of self-efficacy. First class coaches are characterized by significantly higher levels of emotional intelligence, and the belonging to the group of trainers has no influence on the sense of efficacy. Conclusions. The results of the study can provide guidance to create/modify training programs for sports coaches. Developing mental toughness and improving emotional intelligence should occupy a special place in the training process wrestlers.

Success factors in male WTF taekwondo juniors

The most important success factors in sports include body build, conditioning, technical and tactical skills, mental abilities and the experience of a competitor [1]. Since WTF (World Taekwondo Federation) taekwondo was approved for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, it has been the subject of extensive research, where one of the areas of interest is the identification of success factors. Training effectiveness in sport is measured with the best possible performance (result) in the most important competitions. Therefore, many researchers have been interested in establishing success factors in taekwondo. The majority of studies have sought to determine correlations between different indicators and performance in taekwondo, including morphological [2-10], biomechanical [7; 11], conditioning, physiological and psychological indicators [6;8; 12-14] and indicators related to coordination [15]. The aforementioned researchers have found that taekwondo competitors with mesomorphic body build, high levels of speed, strength, endurance and flexibility, as well as shorter reaction times and proper technique have achieved excellent results. Rarely have several success factors in elite taekwondo competitors been analysed simultaneously (in terms of me dals they have or have not won at the highest levels of competition). In the above-mentioned studies, researchers focus ed entirely on single factors that were somatic or physiological. The aim of this study was to identify selected success factors of elite Olympic taekwondo competitors within the context of medals that they have or have not won during Polish Junior Championships (PJCs).

Speed of Reaction and Fighting Effectiveness in Elite Greco-Roman Wrestlers

The purpose of the study was to determine the changes in simple reaction time and to define correlations between simple reaction time and technical and tactical actions performed by elite Greco-Roman wrestlers during a match. Twenty Greco-Roman wrestlers (M age = 19.5 years, SD = 1.8) from the Wrestling Sports Centre in Radom participated in the study. Simple reaction time (including reaction time and movement time) before a match and after the first, the second, and the third round was analyzed. The wrestlers’ reaction time and movement time changed in the course of performance. Wrestlers with higher sports achievements demonstrated a smaller decrement in simple reaction time and performed more technical and tactical actions during a match. The strongest correlations were observed between both reaction time and movement time and the number of technical and tactical actions performed during the last round. Quick reaction was a significant factor in determining the match outcome, which is revealed at submaximal intensity of the effort during a match.

SOD2 gene polymorphism and response of oxidative stress parameters in young wrestlers to a three-month training

Abstract The aim of the study was to analyse the effect of Val 16Ala polymorphism in SOD2 gene on oxidative stress parameters and lipid profile of the blood during a three-month wrestling training. The study included 53 Polish young wrestlers. Blood samples were collected at the beginning of the programme and following three months of the training. The list of analysed parameters included erythrocyte and serum activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), whole blood glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, total glutathione (tGSH) level, concentration of lipid hydroperoxides (LHs), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and creatine kinase (CK) activity in the serum, as well as lipid profile parameters: triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Three-month training resulted in a decrease in CK activity, an increase in serum SOD activity, as well as in unfavourable changes in serum lipid profile: an increase in TC, LDL-C, and TG, and a decrease in HDL-C. Aside from CK activity, all these changes seemed to be associated with presence of Val allele. Prior to the training programme, subjects with Ala/Ala genotype presented with lower levels of LHs, lower whole blood GPx activity, and lower serum concentrations of TC than the individuals with Ala/Val genotype. Both prior to and after three-month training, higher levels of tGSH were observed in Val/Val genotype as compared to Ala/Val genotype carriers. Moreover, multiple regression analysis demonstrated that SOD2 genotype was a significant predictor of pre-training whole blood GPx activity and erythrocyte SOD activity (Val/Val > Ala/Val > Ala/Ala). Altogether, these findings suggest that Val 16Ala polymorphism in SOD2 gene contributes to individual variability in oxidative stress status and lipid profile of the blood in young wrestlers, and may modulate biochemical response to training.

MARTIAL ARTS AND COMBAT SPORTS - SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES IN TERMS OF THE BASIC ACTIVITIES OF A COACH

Abstract Introduction. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that different approaches to the training process in the selfdefense and martial arts, reflected the hierarchical structure of the basic activities of a coach. Materials and methods. Opinions of 159 trainers with many years of experience in capoeira (n=16), taekwon-do ITF version (n=95) and wrestling (n=48) were collected. Diagnostic survey method was used, and the instrument was a questionnaire developed by Tumanian [7] and modified by Januszewski and Sterkowicz [8]. Results. Capoeira and wrestling trainers did not agree as to the status of any of the 20 coachs activities. The biggest differences were in assessing the significance of instructing trainees during competitions, developing planning process and first aid giving. Rsp ranks correlation coefficient = 0.66, p<0.01. Capoeira and taekwon-do coaches had consistent opinions in case of five activities. The largest differences occurred in terms of organizing and judging the competition and instructing trainees during competitions. Rsp rank correlation coefficient = 0.50, p<0.05. The opinions of taekwon-do and wrestling coaches were in line for two activities and the two activities were given different ranks. Rsp rank correlation coefficient = 0.71, p<0.001. Conclusions. Managing technical and physical preparation of trainees, as well as their training process and body control, were the most important activities of a coach in three combat variations. Scientific-methodical research was considered unimportant. None of the surveyed coaches agreed with others on the importance of professional activities, and their rank does not differentiate representatives of the three types of combat.

The analysis of coordination training means used in the training of wrestlers

Wrestling belongs to a group of sports with high complexity of movements and the variability of conditions of their ap plication. During a fight a wide range of grappling techniques performed in various ways can be observed. The precision of movements performed depends on the coordination levels of a competitor. Therefore, it is one of the most significant and indispensable elements in the training process of wrestlers. An adequate emphasis on coordination training, including the development of the predominant CMAs, is an absolute must at all stages of wrestlers’ training [1-10]. Coordination complexity is an essential criterion of classifying training means when assessing the volume of loads in combat sports [7,11,12]. In wrestling it is noticeable when means at various levels of difficulty are applied. These include exercises where different muscle groups are engaged. Such exercises are performed in non-standard conditions, sometimes with various accessories or pieces of apparatus as well as during a non-standard fight. The following factors influence the coordination complexity of exercises in wrestling: levels of activity and the number of participants, time limit, size of the exercise surface, difficulty of a motor task including acrobatic elements, a fight against a stronger opponent or several op po nents as well as wrestling games and plays with elements of team games. Despite its theoretical and practical importance, the classification of coordination training loads has not been sufficiently investigated as yet [7,11,13]. It is borne out by the fact that there are no precise rules of classifying training means in terms of volume, intensity and coordination complexity [7,11, 12]. The lack of the classification of coordination training loads may result in an incorrect planning of a training cycle and ineffective training of an athlete [11]. The aim of the study was to assess coordination training means applied in a 6-month training cycle of Greco-Roman wrestlers.

Effects of Rhodiola rosea supplementation on mental performance, physical capacity, and oxidative stress biomarkers in healthy men

Purpose The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of chronic Rhodiola rosea (R. rosea) supplementation on mental and physical performance, as well as hormonal and oxidative stress biomarkers. Methods Twenty-six healthy male students received either R. rosea extract (600 mg/day; RR) or placebo (PL) in a randomized double-blind trial. Prior to supplementation (Term I) and following 4 weeks of supplementation (Term II), the students underwent psychomotor tests for simple and choice reaction time, included in the Vienna Test System. Also, the subjects performed VO2peak test. Blood samples were obtained before and after the test to measure the hormonal profile (cortisol, testosterone, and growth hormone), as well as the biomarkers of oxidative stress (lipid hydroperoxides, total antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase) and muscle damage (creatine kinase). Results R. rosea ingestion shortened reaction time and total response time. Moreover, a greater relative increase in the number of correct responses was observed in RR group as compared to the PL group. No changes in endurance exercise capacity and hormonal profile were observed after R. rosea ingestion. R. rosea ingestion raised plasma total antioxidant capacity. It did not, however, affect other measured parameters. Conclusion Chronic R. rosea ingestion does not affect physical performance, but can improve the results of some psychomotor tests (simple and choice reaction time) in young, healthy, and physically active men. The improvements in mental performance, however, at least in our study, seem not to be related to changes in cortisol release or antioxidant activity of R. rosea extract. Thus, the specific mechanisms responsible for these effects still need to be elucidated.