Movement pattern of children in Taekwondo training : Descriptive study

Objectives:
To investigate the movement pattern between the taekwondo training with and without music.

Methods:
Participants
• Two target children (n=2)
• The children will be matched for age (6-8 years old), gender, height, weight, and taekwondo experience level (beginner to intermediate) to ensure a controlled comparison.
Conditions:
• Taekwondo with music: Children will perform taekwondo routines and sparring while listening to upbeat, rhythmic music.
• Taekwondo without music: Children will perform the same taekwondo routines and sparring, but without any accompanying music.

Procedure
1. Recruit two children who meet the matching criteria.
2. Record the children's taekwondo movements in the two conditions on separate days, with the order of conditions randomized to mitigate any order effects.
3. The recordings will capture the full range of the children's movements during the 30-minute taekwondo classes. Measures • Movement patterns will be analyzed, including range of motion, fluidity of movements, tempo/rhythm of movements, and emotional expression through movements (Figure 1, 2).

Implications: The findings of this descriptive study on the movement patterns of children in Taekwondo training with and without music could have several important implications. music improves the fluidity, rhythm, and emotional expression of Taekwondo movements, it would suggest that incorporating music can enhance the overall technical quality and enjoyment of Taekwondo practice for young participants. Additionally, this could have significant benefits for children with special needs, such as those with autism spectrum disorder, who may respond positively to the sensory and emotional elements that music can provide in a Taekwondo setting. The study aims to inform the development of more engaging and effective Taekwondo programs for children.