Effect of Different Work-to-rest Ratios During Simulated Taekwondo Combat on Blood Lactate, Heart Rate and Perceptual Responses in Elite Taekwondo Athletes

This randomized cross-over study measured physiological and perceptual responses of taekwondo athletes following a free combat and combats with different W:R ratios. This study was carried out with 4 visits. The first one included body composition measurements and familiarization to the sessions and measurements. During the rest 3 visit, athletes performed simulated combats free and with 1:2 (10 sec work and 20 sec rest), and 2:1 (20 sec work and 10 sec rest) W:R ratios. During all combat sessions, athletes heart rate (HR), blood lactate (bLA), and counter-movement jump performance (CMJ) were measured at rest and at the end of each combat. HR was also measured following each set. Athletes' rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and perceived muscle soreness (PMS) were measured immediately after each combat.