A KINEMATIC ANALYSIS OF ROUND KICK IN TAEKWONDO

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to provide kinematic analysis of the round kick in Taekwondo. The round kick is an important component required in the performance of Taekwondo. In order to accomplish this skill, it is necessary to accelerate the movement of the leg to a high velocity. In order to determine the mechanism involved in this maneuver, kinematic analysis of the motion will be used. This study analyzed the round kick motion through application of the 3D-video analysis system. The data determined that the muscles of the thigh initiate the round kick, transmitting force from the hip, through to the shank and finally to the foot. Before kicking the target, the knee-joint flexes to increase the velocity of leg and then the lower limbs extend. These are the requirements for a rapid and powerful kick.