A study of the relationship between indicators of general and special physical preparedness, psychophysiological and morphofunctional data of 16-17 year old Thai boxers

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Thai boxing (Muay Thai), as a high-intensity combat sport, places complex demands on athletes' preparedness, integrating striking techniques with the hands, feet, elbows, and knees, as well as strength work in the clinch. The aim of the study was to identify the nature and strength of the relationships between general physical preparedness (GPP) and special physical preparedness (SPP) indicators, psychophysiological and morphofunctional indicators in 16-17 year old Thai boxers. Material and methods. Forty qualified Thai boxers participated in the study. A comprehensive assessment was conducted, which included tests of special physical preparedness (number and series of punches, kicks, and knees in 60 seconds), general physical preparedness (explosive power, speed-strength qualities, endurance), psychophysiological indicators (sensorimotor reaction speed, attention, neuropsychic stability), and morphofunctional characteristics (anthropometry, body composition). Pearson correlation analysis was used for data processing. Results. Statistically significant strong correlations were found between SPP indicators and: 1) psychophysiological indicators: simple auditory reaction time (r=0.70-0.86), concentration and switching of attention (r=0.71-0.90), and movement frequency (r=0.78-0.83). 2) general physical preparedness indicators: explosive leg strength (r=0.72-0.90) and speed-strength qualities of the arms (r=0.57-0.59). No significant relationships with general or strength endurance were found. 3) morphofunctional indicators: significant, but weaker, relationships were found with arm span (r=0.76-0.87) and hip circumference (r=0.53-0.64). Other anthropometric indicators (height, weight, BMI, body fat percentage) did not show a consistent relationship with SPP. Conclusions. The effectiveness of specialized training for young Thai boxers is largely determined by the development of psychophysiological functions (reaction speed, attention) and key physical qualities (explosive leg strength), and is less dependent on morphological characteristics. The findings highlight the need to integrate cognitive training and place a greater emphasis on speed-strength training in the training process.