Summary of findings
In summarising, the aerobic, ATP-CP and lactic acid
systems all contribute to the energy required for Taekwondo. During a bout of three, 2 minute rounds with
1 minute intervals in between the rounds, the aerobic system contributes approximately
66%, the ATP-CP contributes 30% and the lactic acid contributes 4%. While the aerobic system would be the most
dominant due to all of the sub-maximal efforts that are performed in Taekwondo,
including bouncing before attacking and recovery, the most important energy
system to train would be the ATP-CP system.
This is because the
ATP-CP system is used during faster, shorter and higher intensity bursts of
kicking. Kicking earns the most amount
of points so while it is important for both the aerobic and ATP-CP systems to
be trained, it is recommended that the emphasis is on training the ATP-CP
system as this is where the athlete will earn their points. In relation to my performance, training the
ATP-CP system would benefit me the most, as my aerobic capacity is already at a
high level. Anaerobic training would
include activities that last up to 30 seconds such as sprinting, kicking, stair
runs or resistance training as these rely almost exclusively on the ATP-CP
system. To maintain my aerobic level of
fitness I could do continuous and circuit training. This training should assist me in improving my performance for next year.