Investigation of the effects of imagery practices on target-aimed punch, motor imagery skills and proprioceptive senses of karate players; [Дослідження впливу практик уявлень на цільові удари, навички рухової образності та пропріоцептивні відчуття каратистів]

Background and Study Aim. This study aims to examine the effects of an 8-week motor imagery training program on target-oriented punch performance, motor imagery skills, and proprioceptive senses in karate athletes aged 15-17. Material and methods. The research employed an "non-equivalent control group design." A total of 31 athletes were divided into experimental (n=16) and control (n=15) groups. The experimental group participated in motor imagery sessions in addition to their routine karate training for 8 weeks, while the control group only performed standard technical training. Data were collected at four different intervals using a target-oriented punch performance test, a joint reposition test (proprioception), and a movement imagery scale. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Repeated Measures ANOVA, Paired Samples t-test, and Bonferroni corrections. Results. The results indicated that while both groups showed improvements in target-oriented striking performance, the experimental group achieved significantly higher mean scores in post-test measurements compared to the control group. Regarding proprioceptive sensory measurements and movement imagery scales (both kinesthetic and visual), the experimental group demonstrated superior development, reaching scores near the maximum possible value. However, retention test measurements revealed a relative decline in shoulder joint sense and technical performance compared to the immediate post-test values. Conclusions. It was concluded that motor imagery exercises practiced in parallel with kumite training significantly enhance technical striking precision, mental imagery capacity, and deep sensory perception in karate athletes.