MOVEMENT STRUCTURES OF ROUND KICKS IN KARATE

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify similarities and differences of various round kicking techniques in karate in terms of kinematic characteristics. On the basis of the ankle velocity-time-courses of the supporting leg and the kicking leg, the possibility of an objective phase structuring should be proven. The subject matters are the Mawashi-Geri and the Ura-Mawashi-Geri in their various executions. In relation to the temporal structures of the movements, general and individual distinctions were found. A characteristic of Mawashi-Geri (front leg) is the appearance of two maximum values of the ankle (kicking leg) velocity. But the relation between them is dependent on the subject. For all subjects the shortest movement times were found for the Mawashi-Geri with front leg.