Sex-Specific Differences in Neuromuscular Performance, Joint Mobility, and Postural Control in Elite Karate Athletes

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Abstract
Elite karate performance depends on neuromuscular power, joint mobility, and postural stability, yet sex-specific biomechanical profiles in this population remain insufficiently characterized. This study examined differences in lower-limb explosive power, joint kinematics, and visual-dependent postural control in 28 international-level karatekas. Assessments included vertical jump tests, joint mobility tasks performed at preferred and maximum velocities, and stabilometric evaluations under eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. Males demonstrated significantly longer flight and phase times across all jump tests (all p < 0.05), and higher maximum angular velocities during shoulder flexion and extension, while females exhibited greater hip abduction range of motion during the Wall Split test (all p < 0.05). In postural control, females showed larger Ellipse Area and Path Length under eyes-open conditions (p < 0.05), but these differences were eliminated when vision was removed. The Romberg Index indicated comparable reliance on visual input between sexes. These findings may support the development of more individualized, sex-specific conditioning strategies in elite karate.

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