Department of Coaching Education, Avrasya University, Trabzon, 61250, Türkiye
Abstract
This study aimed to examine kicking reaction time to visual stimuli and kicking performance following a standardized exercise protocol in karate athletes, and to evaluate the relationships between these variables. A total of 45 karate athletes, including 25 males and 20 females, voluntarily participated in the study. Participants completed a standardized exercise protocol consisting of 10 repetitions of 20-m sprints, bodyweight squats, and repeated kicking tasks. Kicking reaction time was measured using a specially developed electronic reaction device providing visual stimuli, and the measurement properties of the device were found to be acceptable (ICC = 0.912; CV = 7.4%; Cronbach’s α = 0.927). The findings revealed a statistically significant difference between the first five and the last five kicking reaction times (p < 0.05). Regarding sex differences, a significant difference was observed only in the leg Dempster value, whereas no significant differences were found among age groups. In addition, a significant relationship was found between the leg Dempster value and body weight, while the regression models did not significantly explain kicking reaction time overall. In conclusion, the demographic and anthropometric variables examined had limited explanatory power for kicking reaction time, indicating that other physiological, technical, and training-related factors should also be considered when evaluating performance.
Keywords
Karate,visual reaction time, kicking performance,repeated sprints,combat sports
How to Cite
Ozlukan Sahin, B. (2026). An investigation of repeated kicking performance and kicking reaction time to visual cues in karate athletes. Journal of ROL Sport Sciences, 8, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.70736/jrolss.2433
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