Effects of Led Lighting Training on Response Time in Greco-Roman Wrestlers

Abstract Introduction Response time is one of the determinants of performance effectiveness in wrestling competitions. Its high levels help wrestlers fight more effectively when performing appropriate technical and tactical actions. Different factors such as a proper warm-up, unexpected situations, muscle fatigue, asthenic reactions, competition prestige and previous injuries may exert an influence on perceptual abilities (including RT and MT) and affect fighting effectiveness. Getting to know determinants of response time may provide a lot of valuable practical information that can be used in wrestling-related training. The study sought to determine changes in response time in Greco-Roman wrestlers produced by LLT. Material and Methods Twenty-four Greco-Roman wrestlers (age = 18.6 1.8, years of experience = 6.0 1.6) took part in the study. The wrestlers were divided according to two weight classes (lightweight and heavyweight). Within LLT programme, they performed special motor tasks using Batak Pro (15 minutes in total). Between the tasks, response time (reaction time and movement time) was measured. Reaction time test (RT, version S1) of the Vienna Test System was used in the study. Results Response time changed in a variety of ways (different directions and intensity of changes). The changes were noted both in RT and MT. Contrary to LLT, a standard warm-up did not contribute to an improvement in RT. The greatest changes were observed after ten minutes of exercising. Intragroup differences in response time grew smaller in the course of the task performance. No differences in response time were noted between wrestlers representing different weight classes. Conclusions Physical exertion within LLT affects response time in Greco-Roman wrestlers regardless of their weight classes. The most favourable changes occur after 10 minutes of exercising that requires high attentional focus (exercises performed after a standard warm-up). The type of warm-up and the exercises used may constitute a factor improving performance effectiveness. It is recommended that in a pre-competition warm-up, more time should be devoted to exercises requiring high attentional focus.