Thirty male novice taekwondo athletes aged 14-16 entered an eight-week experiment. The SAQ group scored higher than controls on all five post-test kicks, with significant within-group improvement over time.
Key findings
- Post-test experimental versus control means were 17.46 vs 13.06 for front kick, 16.93 vs 10.26 side, 13.00 vs 9.46 push, 13.66 vs 8.20 hook and 24.33 vs 15.46 downward, all p
Why this matters globally
SAQ is a low-cost approach adaptable by youth coaches if safety and transfer from skill tests to real competition are confirmed.
Thai researcher contribution
Bangkokthonburi University researchers developed the programme with coach and expert input, linking sport science to youth kicking practice.
Limitations to consider
Only 30 boys were studied, with no clear randomisation, assessor masking or retention follow-up. Baseline hook-kick imbalance and multiple outcomes raise bias and multiplicity concerns.