Effectiveness of a Modified Plyometric Training Model in Improving Ushiro Mawashi Geri Skill Among Adolescent Karate Athletes Aged 15–17 Years

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and examine the effectiveness of a modified plyometric training model in improving ushiro mawashi geri skill among adolescent karate athletes aged 15–17 years. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE development model, consisting of the phases of analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The participants were 45 adolescent karate athletes aged 15–17 years who were actively involved in a training program at INKANAS Central Jakarta Branch. The developed product was a modified plyometric training model designed based on the biomechanical characteristics of the ushiro mawashi geri technique and validated by karate experts, measurement and evaluation experts, and training model experts. Data were collected through ushiro mawashi geri skill assessments administered before (pre-test) and after (post-test) a six-session training intervention. The results indicated that the mean ushiro mawashi geri skill score increased from 28.24 (39%) in the pre-test to 66.84 (93%) in the post-test. The normality test revealed that the data were normally distributed (p > 0.05), while the homogeneity test indicated homogeneous variance (p = 0.661). Furthermore, the Paired Sample t-Test demonstrated a significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores (t = −59.298; p < 0.05). The N-Gain analysis yielded an average score of 87.76%, which was categorized as highly effective. These findings indicate that the modified plyometric training model was effective in enhancing ushiro mawashi geri skill among adolescent karate athletes. Therefore, the developed training model is considered feasible for implementation as an alternative training program and may serve as a practical guideline for karate coaches in improving ushiro mawashi geri kicking performance among athletes aged 15–17 years.