Bivariate analysis of taekwondo actions: The effectiveness of techniques and tactics in an Olympic taekwondo championship

Abstract

This paper describes the effectiveness of technical-tactical actions performed during a tournament. A total of 14,145 actions of the 2012 London Olympic Games were analysed. Differences emerged in the use of tactics, techniques, zones, legs and guard to score. Regarding tactics, anticipatory counterattacks were the most effective for scoring one and three points. Circular techniques were the most effective for scoring one point, linear to score three points, and spin techniques to score two and four points. Actions to the chest results in a score of one to two points and actions to the head in a score of three to four points. The rear leg was more effective in scoring one, two and four points. A close guard was more effective for scoring two points. It is suggested that coaches and athletes pursue training in the aforementioned technical-tactical actions according to the score they desire to obtain during bouts.