School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
Background: Vertical jump is an index representing leg/kick power. The
explosive movement of the kick is the key to scoring in martial arts
competitions. It is important to determine factors that influence the
vertical jump to help athletes improve their leg power. The objective
of the present study is to identify anthropometric factors that
influence vertical jump height for male and female martial arts
athletes. Methods: Twenty-nine male and 25 female athletes participated
in this study. Participants were Malaysian undergraduate students whose
ages ranged from 18 to 24 years old. Their heights were measured using
a stadiometer. The subjects were weighted using digital scale. Body
mass index was calculated by kg/m2. Waist–hip ratio was measured
from the ratio of waist to hip circumferences. Body fat % was obtained
from the sum of four skinfold thickness using Harpenden callipers. The
highest vertical jump from a stationary standing position was recorded.
The maximum grip was recorded using a dynamometer. For standing back
strength, the maximum pull upwards using a handle bar was recorded.
Multiple linear regression was used to obtain the relationship between
vertical jump height and explanatory variables with gender effect.
Results: Body fat % has a significant negative relationship with
vertical jump height (P < 0.001). The effect of gender is
significant (P < 0.001): on average, males jumped 26% higher than
females did. Conclusion: Vertical jump height of martial arts athletes
can be predicted by body fat %. The vertical jump for male is higher
than for their female counterparts. Reducing body fat by proper dietary
planning will help to improve leg power