Dewangga Yudhistira, Nurkholis, Andhega Wijaya, Ghozi Indra Waskita, Pangondian Hotliber Purba, Muhammad Sukron Fauzi, Naheria, Alventur Baun, Muhamad Rohadi, Muhammad Saiin, Hendry Ismawan
Background and Study Aim Core stability training is commonly used in youth martial arts practice to support postural control. Different training approaches and individual strength levels may influence balance outcomes in young karate athletes. Despite the application of various training methods, their relative effectiveness in improving balance remains a matter of practical interest. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of core stability training on balance improvement in young karateka. Material and Methods This 2×2 factorial experiment included 40 male karateka (aged 6–8 years) selected through purposive sampling and grouped using matched-subject ordinal pairing. The research instruments consisted of the plank test and the star excursion balance test. Data analysis techniques were Two-Way ANOVA, Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05), and effect size calculation (partial eta squared) using SPSS version 23. Results There was a significant effect of the training method (core stability vs. control) (p = 0.000; ηp² = 0.707). There was a significant effect of core muscle strength (high vs. low) (p = 0.000; ηp² = 0.730). There was a significant interaction between the training method (core stability vs. control) and core muscle strength (high vs. low) (p = 0.009; ηp² = 0.174). Conclusions The effectiveness of training in improving balance is not determined only by a single training method but is also strongly moderated by core muscle strength. Although both the core stability training method and core muscle strength factors have a moderate-to-high effect, the presence of a substantial interaction indicates that each karateka’s response is different. Identifying core muscle strength in young karateka is critical for achieving optimal balance. © Dewangga Yudhistira, Nurkholis, Andhega Wijaya, Ghozi Indra Waskita, Pangondian Hotliber Purba, Muhammad Sukron Fauzi, Naheria, Alventur Baun, Muhamad Rohadi, Muhammad Saiin, Hendry Ismawan, 2026.
Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia; Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universitas Negeri Medan, Indonesia; Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Mulawarman, Indonesia; Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Kristen Artha Wacana, Indonesia; Faculty of Education, Institute of Teacher Training and Education of the Indonesian Teachers Association East Kalimantan, Indonesia
