Effects Of Chronic Bicarbonate Supplementation On Kicking Performance In Highly Trained Taekwondo Athletes

Effects of ergo-nutritional strategies on recovery in combat sports disciplines

Introduction

In order to improve the recovery process in combat sports disciplines, ergo-nutritional strategies could be an effective option in training and competition. Some of these ergo-nutritional aids could improve performance but literature references are scarce, with controversial results regarding actual recovery effects. This systematic review aimed to examine which ergo-nutritional methods are most effective for assisting in the recovery process in combat sports, and to determine the appropriate training stimuli. This systematic review was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review (PRISMA) guidelines. A computerized search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Collaboration Database, Evidence Database, Evidence Based Medicine Search review, National Guidelines, EM-BASE, Scopus and Google Scholar system (from 1995 to April 30, 2021). The PICOS model was used to define inclusion and exclusion criteria. Out of 123 studies initially found, 18 met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Data from 367 athletes from different disciplines were examined. The evidence was grouped in 4 areas: oxidative stress, muscle and energy recovery, muscle repair, and metabolic acidosis. Evidence showed that vitamins, minerals, and some natural ergo-nutritional products are effective as antioxidants. Carbohydrates and protein determine the recovery effect. Sodium bicarbonate has a role as primary acidosis metabolic delayer. Accordingly, ergo-nutritional aids can help in the recovery process. Considering the effects outlined in the literature, more studies are needed to provide firm evidence.

THE INFLUENCE OF STRENGTH TRAINING ON TAEKWONDO ATHLETES’ REACTION SPEED

ABSTRACT Introduction: Taekwondo is a skill-oriented confrontational event. Athletes’ physical fitness and flexible changes in skills and tactics have become the cornerstone of athletes’ victory. Objective: The objective was to explore the influence of strength training on the reaction speed of boxing athletes. Method: 8 master-class Taekwondo athletes, 16 first-class Taekwondo athletes, and 30 second-class Taekwondo athletes from a particular province were selected as Group A, B, and C. The control groups were Group A1, B1, and C1. Results: Group B athletes showed significant changes in 15s front kick and 15s high leg lift. Group C athletes showed highly significant differences in rapid strength. After the traditional fast strength training in the control group, all the Group C1 had significant changes in the test. However, Group B1 athletes only had substantial changes in 15s down split and 15s front kick. There was no significant change in all indexes of Group A1 athletes before and after the experiment. Conclusion: The analysis of experimental data shows that core strength training significantly improves the reaction speed of Taekwondo athletes. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.