ANTHROPOMETRY AND ANAEROBIC PERFORMANCE IN ELITE AMERICAN TAEKWONDO ATHLETES

Abstract

Taekwondo demands a unique blend of physical skills such as strength, speed, power, balance, and flexibility,
making it a highly specialized sport. Additionally, certain anthropometric characteristics are fundamental to
performance in this sport. Objective: To determine the relationship between anthropometric variables and aerobic
performance in the markers of the RAST test in American taekwondo practitioners. Methodology: A quasi-
experimental cross-sectional study, of quantitative, descriptive, and correlational nature, was conducted on a
sample of (n=470) taekwondo athletes. Anthropometric measurements included height, weight, and body mass
index (BMI). Anaerobic performance was assessed using the sprint-based running test (RAST). Results: Statistically
significant correlations were found in all anaerobic performance variables and anthropometrics (p<0.000).
Regarding anthropometric characteristics, it was recorded that the median height was 65.00 inches (with an
interquartile range of 62.00 to 68.00 inches), and the weight averaged 125.60 pounds with a standard deviation of
±28.03, resulting in a body mass index (BMI) of 20.75 (lb/in²), falling within the normal range according to the
classification corresponding to this measurement. Conclusions: Finally, it could be concluded that there is a positive
and statistically significant relationship between anthropometric characteristics and RAST test variables. This
indicates that greater height, higher weight, and higher body mass index increase power, anaerobic capacity, and
allow for a better fatigue index.