Cardiovascular Effects of 16 Weeks of Martial Arts Training in Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Sedentary habits increase the chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Physical activity is one of the means of prevention and treatment of these diseases, thus martial arts represent a dynamic option in promoting physical activity. Objective: The objective of the study is analyze the effects of 16 weeks of Martial Arts (Muay Thai or judo) training on cardiovascular variables in adolescents. Methods: The sample consisted of 40 adolescents, aged 11 to 14 years, divided into two groups: Martial Arts (n=28) and control (n=12). Weight and height measurements were taken to calculate body mass index. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) at rest, pulse pressure (PP) and rate-pressure product (RPP), were also measured. The intervention was carried out through Martial Arts (Muay Thai and judo) training held twice a week for 90 minutes, over 16 weeks. The control group did not undergo any training. The statistical analysis was performed using the following tests: Shapiro-Wilks, Levene’s, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), eta-squared effect size and the net-effect, using SPSS 15.0 software and a significance level of 5%. Results: There was no statistical difference between the control and Martial Arts groups for the sample characterization. There was a significant difference in systolic BP in the Martial Arts group when compared with the control group (p-value=0.049). The effect size can be considered moderate (effect size=0.163), with a good net-effect (3.4 mmHg). Conclusion: This study showed that 16 weeks of Martial Arts decreased systolic BP in normotensive adolescents. Level of Evidence II; Therapeutic studies - Investigating the results of treatment.

Research on the influence of fuzzy mathematics simulation model in the development of Wushu market

“…Second, the information contained in various indicators must be able to scientifically reflect the information of core competitiveness. Third, the choice of evaluation methods for constructing core competitiveness must be scientific and feasible [3].…”