Comparison of Physique and Physical Fitness Factor Characteristics of College Taekwondo Majors by School Year

Purpose: In this study, the number of students enrolled in the practical classes is decreasing as the academic year increases due to the reduction of required courses and the expansion of major electives in order to give stu-dents voluntary class options unlike in the past for Taekwondo students. Considering that as a result, physical strength and practical skills may decrease, this study intends to compare and analyze the differences by grade level by measuring the physique and physical strength of students enrolled in the Department of Taekwondo. In addition, the results of this study are intended to be used as basic data for organizing and reorganizing the curriculum by grade level. Method: The subjects of this study were Taekwondo majors enrolled at K University in D city, 27 first graders, 26 second graders, and 26 third graders (total 79), and the characteristics of body composition and physical fit-ness factors were compared and analyzed. Results: As a result of body composition measurement, body fat percentage and body mass index were statis-tically significantly higher in second grade than in first grade. As a result of measuring the physical fitness factors, it was found that the first graders were statistically significantly higher than the third graders in the Harvard Step test, which is an evaluation item for cardiorespiratory endurance. The sound reaction time was found to be statis-tically significantly faster in the first year students than in the second year students. The stand-up long jump, which is a quickness evaluation item, was statistically significantly higher in first-year students than in third-year students. Conclusion: In conclusion, it is considered that the decrease in the frequency of use of the practical practice space and face-to-face classes in the university due to COVID-19 had a negative effect on the physical composi-tion and development of physical fitness of Taekwondo students. Based on the results of this study, it is thought that it is necessary to seek ways to improve the physical strength and practical ability of Taekwondo students.