Talent Identification Through Taekwondo Training Program and Its Relation to Biomechanical Performance of Taekwondo Athletes: Basis for Enhanced Training Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Athletes' performance is the basis oftraining program's effectiveness. To have an effective training plan, trainers and coaches should look for the talents of their athletes. By identifying the skills of potential athletes, one can find the suitable sports for them. In discovering the talents of potential athletes, Talent Identification Program in Sports is used. Talent Identification was utilized to detect the weakness and strength of the athletes. It is one of the factors to be considered in designing the best training plan for the athletes.

METHODS

The study utilized the descriptive correlation design and qualitative method of research to describe the existing status of the taekwondo athletes of the Tanauan City Division through the measurements of their biomechanical parameter and its relation to taekwondo training program related variables. The researcher chose the 32 secondary taekwondo athletes, who represented Tanauan City in the Regional Sports Competition as the respondents of this study. The researcher used a modified questionnaire adopted by similar study validated by research and taekwondo experts as the main instrument in data gathering.

RESULTS

44% of the respondents are 14 -15 years old; 53% have normal BMI; 50% has less than 1 year playing experience; 37% are of fin weight; and 75% came from the public schools. The respondents "strongly agreed" that the training program objectives, training schedule, competencies of coaches and trainers, and psychological attributes have effects on their taekwondo skills. They "agreed" that facilities and equipment, incentives and awards, and parents support are contributive to their performance. They "moderately agreed" that funding and budget allocation have relationship to their skills development. They rated "excellent" in leg power, "very satisfactory" in reaction time, and "satisfactory" in flexibility, agility, speed and cardiovascular endurance.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the findings and conclusions of the study, the following recommendations are offered:

1. Coaches, trainers, and athletes may continue their training practices and focus on the low level of athletes' performance.

2. Coaches, trainers, and sports administrators may consider the training program related variables in designing and conducting taekwondo training for the athletes.

3. Coaches, trainers, and athletes may use the training program crafted on this study for their skills and performance development.