Abstract

Taekwondo (TKD) is characterized as an intermittent and high-intensity sport in which predominates the execution of fast and explosive movements, with continuous movements and changes of direction (COD). Objective. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between the TSAT test, explosive strength, and 5-M line speed in national level TKD competitors of both sexes. Material and method. Through a correlational design, 14 competitors of both sexes who regularly compete in regional and national tournaments (age 19 ± 3 years; size 164 ± 10 cm; body weight 62 ± 10 kg; experience 7.2 ± 2.9 years), participated in this study. As indicators of explosive strength, squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ) were evaluated, as well as the 5-m linear speed (5-M) and the taekwondo-specific agility test (TSAT). Results. Among the main findings of this study, a direct relationship (r = .70) between 5-M and TSAT and an inverse relationship (r = -.63) between SJ, CMJ (r = -.53), and TSAT were documented, respectively. Conclusions. Our data shows that the TSAT test is related to 5-m linear velocity and explosive force. Coaches should consider training these qualities, using similar exercises to develop agility in TKD competitors.