Identifying the technical and tactical characteristics of Olympic medallists in karate

Abstract

This study primarily aimed to conduct an observational analysis of Olympic finalists’ performance to determine the patterns and characteristics of karate at the highest level of competition. Due to the need for a complete analytical system, we can use this study to create useful information about the planning process based on winning strategies. The research is based on an analysis of athletes who go to the final of the Tokyo Olympic Games. Thirty fights in the male competition were analysed. Prevalence, percentage frequency, and nonparametric tests were used (Fisher’s exact test, the likelihood ratio test, and Pearson’s chi-square test) for data analysis. Quantity indicators showed that male karate athletes tend to use upper limb karate techniques (53.70%) more than lower limb (35.65%) and a combination (upper and lower or lower and upper limb 10.65%). The difference in scoring by two tactical models of attack and counterattack was significant, and 69.2% of the points were scored by attacking. Moreover, the results suggest a predominant scoring technique using the Kisami-Tsuki model has the highest number of attacks. Considering these characteristics can provide important indicators for technical and tactical coaches and physical trainers to design special training conditions for their athletes.