Abstract

https://doi.org/10.58984/smb2601041z

This article presents data from a comparative analysis of the morphofunctional state, physical qualities, and functional fitness parameters of highly skilled Sanda athletes from Russia and the athletes from Republic of China. Based on physiological testing data, differences identified in morphofunctional status, respiratory muscle development and pulmonary ventilation, limb muscle hypertrophy, psychophysiological characteristics of reflex response speed and accuracy, and mental and physical aerobic capacity. This allowed us to identify key parameters for constructing useful models for assessing the functional fitness of elite martial artists. Results. Russian martial artists are distinguished by: 1.a high level of myofibrillar hypertrophy in the upper limb muscles; 2. development of maximum voluntary muscle strength in the upper limbs; 3.significant accuracy and speed of response to stimuli in the “Reaction to Light” and “Reaction to a Moving Object” tests; 4. a high ability to resist fatigue when solving cognitive tasks of increasing complexity; 5. a high level of coordination and aerobic endurance, indicating a high level of sensory and central reflex development. These advantages enable Russian athletes to effectively perform in grabs, strikes, and throws, which involve the muscles of the upper limbs. Chinese athletes show predominantly myofibrillar hypertrophy in the thigh and lower leg muscles, enabling them to more effectively deliver kicks to the opponent’s head, torso, and thigh using kicking techniques. The most informative test for assessing the coordination abilities of martial artists is the “Target” test, performed in a classic imitation-mimicking fighting stance. Among the tests characterizing the specialized performance of martial artists, the “Shuttle Run” test (3 x 10 m (sec)) is the most informative, demonstrating the highest degree of reliable differences. The key points for modeling the functional fitness characteristics of martial artists were indicators of aerobic fitness and upper limb muscle strength. The identified range of aerobic endurance and maximum voluntary hand muscle strength development can serve as a guide for focusing physical training loads on elite, highly skilled martial artists from various global Sanda schools.