Comparison of Knee Proprioception and Postural Stability between Iranian Amateur and Professional Taekwondo Players

Determining the association between knee joint proprioception and stability in Taekwondo players shows the importance of incorporating proprioception exercises in the Taekwondo training program. In addition, it can be considered by athletes and Taekwondo coaches as one of the components that promote the professional level of performance. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the knee proprioception and postural stability between Iranian amateur and professional Taekwondo players. This cross-sectional comparison study was performed on 40 Taekwondo players who were randomly divided into two amateur and professional groups. The level of players (professional and amateur) was considered as the independent variable, whereas the mean error of target angle reconstruction at 30, 60, and 90 degrees and postural stability were recognized as the dependent variables. Knee joint proprioception and postural stability were assessed using a gyroscope and Biodex stability system, respectively. Data analysis was performed using independent t-test, and its non-parametric equivalent, Mann-Whitney U (in case of lack of establishment of the assumptions of parametric test).  A significant difference was found between amateur and professional groups regarding proprioception at 30 (P=0.001), 60 (P=0.001) and 90 (P=0.008) degrees as well as postural stability (P=0.001), where the professional group obtained better results, compared to the other group. According to the results of the study, performing professional Taekwondo techniques can positively affect joint proprioception and postural stability by increasing physical performance. These issues are important factors for the difference between professional and amateur players.