Effects of Intensive Training in Enhancing Performance Among Taekwondo Athletes

Abstract

In many sports, intensive training is required to enhance athletic performance especially in combat sports. This study analysed the experience of seven taekwondo athletes from Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan in undergoing intensive training for the preparation of Malaysian Polytechnic Taekwondo Championship 2019. It aimed to identify the effectiveness of intensive training in maximising the athletes’ performance in taekwondo especially sparring techniques. Apart from that, it also identified the relationship between athletes’ body mass index (BMI) and performance in intensive training. Quantitative study was applied in this study. As a result, there was improvement in kicking ability and sparring technique as well as agility among the athletes after four weeks of intensive training and there was significant negative association between BMI and training performance.