A KINEMATIC ANALYSIS OF THE HIP MOTION IN THAI BOXING CLINCH

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the kinematics of the hip joint between the double collar-tie and double underhook Thai Boxing clinching positions. Ten amateur mixed martial arts athletes executed six knee strikes for both clinching positions. A standard two-dimensional video motion analysis captured at 60 Hz was conducted. The results showed a statistical significant difference at the hip joint angle between two clinching positions. In addition, there was a statistically significant correlation found at the hip joint angular velocity and acceleration. This study demonstrates the importance of the hip joint movement in both clinching positions, which implies the importance of strength training and flexibility at the hip. Future studies are warranted to examine the lower leg kinematic chain to fully understand the Thai Boxing clinch.