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DisKURSO_IMJR-Journal-TemplateThe Effects of Stretching Exercise in Enhancing Side Kick Performance in Karate
Author: Kirk Sebastian M. Guerrero, Raven M. Balaman, Dhen Lauren Jay S. Asilan, Jhon Jhon R. Lugcon, Jo-Ann R. Hinosolango, Jeddah Quiño-Justol
Country: Philippines
Volume & Issue: Volume 1, Issue 2, October 2026 - December 2026
Page No.: 103-107
DOI.: https://doi.org/10.63941/DisKURSO.2026.1.2.09
Publication Date: October 15, 2026
Abstract:
This study investigated the effects of specific stretching exercises on side kick (yoko-geri) performance among 38 first-year female Bachelor of Physical Education students at Tagoloan Community College, using a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design without random assignment. Participants were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=20) performed Sitting Single Leg Hamstring Stretch and Half Split Stretch, while Group 2 (n=18) performed Butterfly Stretch and Seat-Side Straddle Stretch, with routines held for 16 seconds each, repeated 2-3 times, 2-3 days per week over five weeks at the college's covered court and parking areas. Pre-test results showed moderate-to-high "Good" (chest-level) kicking performance in both groups (Group 1 mean=3.40, SD=0.598; Group 2 mean=3.28, SD=0.461), with 73.68% at Level 3. Post-tests indicated significant improvements: Group 1 reached "Outstanding" (face-level, mean=4.00, SD=0.00; t(19)=-4.49, p=.001; W=0.00, p=.002), and Group 2 also "Outstanding" (mean=3.72, SD=0.461; t(17)=-3.69, p=.002; W=0.00, p=.006). However, no significant between-group difference emerged in performance increments (t(36)=-1.53, p=.134; U=120, p=.081), confirming both routines equally enhanced flexibility, neuromuscular coordination, range of motion, and kick execution. These findings, grounded in biomechanical theory, support integrating such stretching into PE curricula and karate training while recommending future longitudinal studies on long-term effects and individual factors.
Keywords:
Stretching exercises, Side kick, Karate