Assessment of Motor Skill Proficiency in 10–12-Year-Old Romanian “Kempo” Practitioners

Abstract

This research aimed to identify the level of motor skill proficiency in 10–12 - year-old Kempo practitioners at the national level, operationalized by investigating explosive strength and execution speed, which are essential components of Kempo performance. The subjects of this observational study were 100 Kempo practitioners aged 10-12 years. Participants were recruited from various Kempo clubs across Romania, ensuring national representation of young athletes involved in this martial art. To achieve the research objective, a battery of tests and trials specifically selected to assess motor skills relevant to Kempo performance was utilized. These assessed agility, balance, coordination, explosive power, and speed. The results showed that, while the young Kempo practitioners demonstrated adequate levels of agility, balance, and coordination, their explosive strength and execution speed were deficient. The model of specific physical training for Kempo practitioners at this age needs to be adjusted by rethinking the specific training means designed to improve these fundamental skills. Further research aims to explore the effectiveness of various training strategies to optimize these skills and ultimately enhance the performance of young Kempo practitioners.