Laterality assessment in martial artists through kinematic analysis of striking techniques

The purpose of this study was to objectively measure and highlight laterality differences in striking techniques between elite martial artists and to compare the results achieved by each athlete. The research hypothesis is that the kinematic analysis of both fighting stances (dominant and non-dominant sides) can reveal laterality differences for each athlete. We used an inertial measurement unit system based on 17 motion trackers consisting of 3D gyroscopes, 3D accelerometers and 3D magnetometers, namely the Xsens MVN Awinda system. We collected data on the striking techniques of 8 elite martial artists. The kinematic parameters were calculated and analysed for some of the most commonly used techniques in martial arts, more specifically, straight and roundhouse punches. In order to obtain information about the laterality levels of the monitored athletes, we compared the values of these parameters for technical execution on the dominant and non-dominant sides and highlighted significant differences through the non-parametric Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks Test of significance. To facilitate comparisons between athletes in terms of laterality, we designed an original rating scale and created diagrams based on their scores. The assessments carried out will contribute to both the management and individualisation of training and the choice of combat tactics in a much more informed way.