Abstract:
The research was aimed at identifying the anthropometric, physical and physiological
characteristics of junior Taekwondo athletes to achieve an international status. Data were
collected from 25 males and 11 females aged 15.5 ±2.6 years. Measurements consisted of body
composition (body fat percentage (%BF), sum of 6 skinfolds), flexibility (sit & reach, hip flexor
(HF) and quadriceps flexibility (QF), lower extremity explosive power (vertical jump (Diff VJ)
and vertical jump relative power (R Power), muscle endurance (sit-ups and push-ups), muscular
strength (handgrip right and left), hexagonal agility (HEX) and agility T-test, aerobic power (20
m bleep test (20MST) converted to maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max.). Data were analyzed
using t-test for independent samples and Z-score statistics. Significant higher %BF and sum of
skinfolds were recorded in junior female players. No differences in body mass, stature and BMI
were found. Male athletes had higher (p<0.001) VO2max (42.2±6.8 ml/kg/min) compared to
females (31.7±6.5 ml/kg/min). Female athletes showed lower (p<0.001) results in push-ups
(9.0±6.5 reps) compared to males (25.6±10.5 reps). Maximal grip strength (kg) of both hands
was higher (p<0.05) in males. No differences in sit-ups, explosive leg power and agility were
found between males and females. The analysis of individual Z-score for assessment of fitness
variables has practical implications contributing to the trainability and performance of junior
taekwondo athletes.
