Effects of Practicing MuayThai on the Physical Capabilities and Behavioral Aspects of Women

Abstract

Introduction: MuayThai is a combat sport that involves body movements, concentration techniques and its own philosophies, and is still rarely practiced by women. Objective: To verify the effects of MuayThai practice on physical abilities and behavioral aspects in women. Methods: Quasi-experimental study, characterized by intervention with MuayThai in a group of healthy adult women. Abdominal muscle endurance (maximum repetitions in one minute), flexibility of the posterior muscle chain (sit and reach test), body image (Body Image Scale) and behaviors and risk factors associated with the onset of pain (BackPEI-A questionnaire) were evaluated. Descriptive statistical analysis and inferential statistical analysis (t-test and paired sample chi-square test, McNemar test, p<0.05) were performed. Results: The sample consisted of nine women (age=21.6±1.67 years; body mass=66.4±15.1 kg; height=1.64±0.06 m). There was a significant difference in abdominal muscle resistance related to scalar (t(8)=-3.615, p=0.007, Cohen's d=0.042) and classificatory values ​​(χ2(9)=17.100, p=0.047; Cramer's V=0.796). There was no significant difference for the flexibility of the posterior muscle chain ((t (8) =1.523, p=0.166, Cohen's d=-0.39); (χ2(9)=6.750, p=0.345; Cramer's V=0.612)). Regarding the risk factors that predispose to the onset of pain, a worsening was observed (t (8)=1.414, p=0.195, Cohen's d=-0.48). Conclusion: The practice of MuayThai, performed twice a week for approximately two months, was able to have a significant effect on improving abdominal muscle resistance. However, in other variables related to physical capacities and behavioral aspects, it did not present contributions.