The influence of biomechanical adjustments on strike kinematics in kickboxing

Aim: This paper analyzes the kinematic characteristics of a right-hand side strike to the head in kickboxing and identifies low-efficiency elements of the technique for its subsequent correction. Materials and methods. The study involved a qualified kickboxer, a Russian Master of Sport. The athlete performed a series of 10 right-hand side strikes on a boxing mitt using traditional kickboxing technique, with each series separated by a 60-second rest interval. The movements were recorded by a MIRO high-speed camera (USA) mounted lens-down on a special tripod positioned above the subject. Reflective markers were attached to the right wrist, elbow, and shoulder. The video data were processed using the Star Trace 2D software (Ultra Motion Pro FAST hardware-software complex). Results. The study confirmed the hypothesis that strike speed increases significantly through the correction of the biomechanical parameters of the striking motion. The application technique for the corrected side strike provides specific advantages to an attacking or counterattacking athlete, enabling an increase in effective striking range and allowing the strike to be delivered 20% faster. Conclusion. Analysis of the kinematic characteristics of a right-hand side strike performed with traditional technique revealed a marked decrease in the velocity component Vx along the x-axis toward the end of the fist’s trajectory, accompanied by a relative increase in the Vy component. When performing a ‘swing’ strike with the corrected technique – where the strike is executed along an instantly increasing radius of rotation with clear target direction – a notable increase in the velocity component along the x-axis is observed.