Observational analysis of technical-tactical performance in initiation to combat in karate

ABSTRACT

In training karate, sports initiation through combat or kumite is becoming more and more relevant. The objective of the present work, carried out using an observational methodology, consists of analysing the technical-tactical performance in the initiation to kumite of karate. The observational sample is made up of 61 data packets, generated by 37 competitors, suitable for combat, in 40 combats. The records have been made using the LINCE software. The quality of the data has been guaranteed through inter-observer agreement and within the generalisability theory. A lag sequential analysis has been carried out in a complementary manner, using GSEQ5 software, and a second analysis was performed for the detection of T-patterns, using the THEME software, Edu6 version. The results obtained have made it possible to characterise the offensive technical action executed whether with the fist or leg, the laterality related to the guard that supports the action and the segment with which it is performed, the area of the body to which the technique is directed, and the efficiency obtained. This work is a relevant starting point in the longitudinal programming of formative karate.

KEYWORDS:

• Karate
• initiation
• observational methodology
• lag sequential analysis
• T-patterns

Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge the support of a Spanish government subproject Integration ways between qualitative and quantitative data, multiple case development, and synthesis review as main axis for an innovative future in physical activity and sports research [PGC2018-098742-B-C31] (2019-2021) (Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/Agencia Estatal de Investigación/Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional), that is part of the coordinated project New approach of research in physical activity and sport from mixed methods perspective (NARPAS_MM) [SPGC201800X098742CV0]. In addition, authors thank the support of the Generalitat de Catalunya Research Group, GRUP DE RECERCA I INNOVACIÓ EN DISSENYS (GRID). Tecnología i aplicació multimedia i digital als dissenys observacionals [Grant number 2017 SGR 1405]. Also, this study was funded by grants from the University of La Rioja.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.