Proceeding
Supplementary Issue: Spring Conferences of Sports Science. Costa Blanca Sports Science Events, 21-22 June 2021. Alicante, Spain.
Pencak silat combat match: Time motion analysis
in elite athletes championship
NUR SUBEKTI1 , RONY SYAIFULLAH2, MUHAD FATONI1, AGAM AKHMAD SYAUKANI1, ANUGRAH
NUR WARTHADI1, ANNAS RAIS ARNI-RAYHAN1
1Department
of Physical Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Muhammadiyah University
of Surakarta, Indonesia
2Faculty of Sport Science, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta, Indonesia
ABSTRACT
Pencak silat is a martial art characterized by full body contact fighting. Its physical demand during official
games has so far received little scientific attention. For this reason, the purpose of this study is to investigate
the physical intensity based on the time structure during elite pencak silat competition. The classification of
intensity in this study namely high intensity activities (HIA), low intensity activities (LIA), and off position (OP).
A total of 45 fights from 3 elite competitions were used as samples. Using a time-motion analysis system, all
movements relative to the match time were recorded during the fight. Data were obtained by comparing the
fights among weight divisions and match rounds. The results showed that activities' intensity relative to match
time structure were 2.6 ± 0.6 s for HIA; 11.3 ± 1.8 s for LIA and 8.4 ± 3.6 for OP. In addition, the ratio between
combat and non-fight times is 0.1 ± 0.0. Meanwhile, the duration of HIA and LIA in all weight divisions tends
to subsequently increase from round 1 to 3. The difference was found on the duration of OP. Unlike other
weight divisions, the duration of OP in the lightweight division tended to decrease over the match rounds.
This finding confirms that pencak silat characteristics are intermittent. These results can be useful for trainers
aiming to develop training programs to better adapt with the physical demand of the match.
Keywords: Pencak silat; Time-motion analysis; Elite athlete.
Cite this article as:
Subekti, N., Syaifullah, R., Fatoni, M., Syaukani, A.A., Warthadi, A.N., & Arni-Rayhan, A.R. (2021). Pencak silat
combat match: Time motion analysis in elite athletes championship. Journal of Human Sport and Exercise,
16(4proc), S1597-S1608. https://doi.org/10.14198/jhse.2021.16.Proc4.05
1
Corresponding author. Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Muhammadiyah
University of Surakarta, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5850-3856
E-mail: ns584@ums.ac.id
Abstract submitted to: Spring Conferences of Sports Science. Costa Blanca Sports Science Events, 21-22 June 2021. Alicante,
Spain.
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE ISSN 1988-5202.
© Faculty of Education. University of Alicante.
doi:10.14198/jhse.2021.16.Proc4.05
VOLUME 16 | Proc4 | 2021 | S1597
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
INTRODUCTION
Pencak silat is a martial art that has a combat category which involved full body contact (Subekti et al., 2019),
Pencak silat is classified based on body weight, performed on an 8 meter mat, carried out with a duration of
2 minutes with 3 rounds and a rest time of 45-60 seconds between rounds (International Pencak Silat
Federation, 2013). Pencak silat has developed rapidly, becoming one of the sports competed at the 2018
Asian Games. Pencak silat in the combat category is one of the categories contested in official competitions,
which requires athletes to have complex skills and good physical readiness in order to achieve success
(Fatoni et al., 2019). As in fighting sports in general, success in each fight is determined by a point scoring
system from successful attack actions such as (hitting, kicking, and slamming) even ending with a KO victory
for the specified duration (Ouergui et al., 2013; Silva et al., 2011). Several studies show that success in the
combat arena is always associated with biomechanical, physiological and psychological aspects, for example
in kickboxing (Miarka et al., 2016).
Several methodological approaches have been developed in martial arts, to obtain detailed information
regarding the physiological demands of competition. Martial sports competition system that has special
procedures and certain time limits, so that it will affect the physical needs of athletes during the fight. Combat
sports are often associated with high-intensity movement activities in short tempos that highlight the
anaerobic system (Degoutte et al., 2003), with short-term energy system (adenosine triphosphate-creatine
phosphate) and glycolytic system to achieve competitive results (F B Del Vecchio et al., 2012). Combat sports
are characterized by four essential elements as follows, physiological (F B Del Vecchio et al., 2012; Miles et
al., 2008), physical (Amtmann & Berry, 2003), psychometry (Miles et al., 2008), and time progression
(Fabrício Boscolo Del Vecchio et al., 2011).
Judging from the time elements of martial arts movements such as "pencak silat", each action is classified
based on the intensity of the motion (high, low and resting phase), where the match is held under the official
rules of the federation, with a match system that is limited by the time period and the match round period.
Time-motion analysis is a non-invasive method that provides a comprehensive approach to the technical,
tactical, physiological response, and energy contribution through the identification of the duration of
movement activity during competition. (Fabrício Boscolo Del Vecchio et al., 2011; Hughes & Franks, 2007;
Moreira et al., 2010). Time-motion considers variations in the duration of time and frequency spent in the
various types of movements performed, such as high-intensity movements (consisting mostly of kicks,
punches, and takedown,) and low-intensity or pauses associated with steps or pauses. (Challis et al., 2015;
Ouergui et al., 2019; Santos et al., 2019; Silva et al., 2011). Martial arts' athletes need to be well prepared to
be able to survive in high-intensity activities in every match. This approach has been recommended in several
martial arts, such as; judo (Kons et al., 2018), karate (Herrera-Valenzuela et al., 2019), taekwondo (Bridge
et al., 2018; Matsushigue et al., 2009), kung fu (Artioli et al., 2009), boxing (Ghosh, 2010; Morton et al., 2010),
Muay Thai (Crisafulli et al., 2009), kick boxing (Buse & Santana, 2008), and wrestling (Kraemer et al., 2004).
The match analysis procedure has proven to be effective and produces information related to situational and
contextual aspects that may differ from each level of competition (Bridge et al., 2011; Casolino et al., 2012).
The scientific approach with the time motion analysis method is increasingly popular, especially among elite
athletes, through the use of computer and video-based information technology, this approach has received
recognition by applied practitioners as a medium for providing objective information about physical
performance (Carling & Bloomfield, 2013), as a guide for coaches in compiling more special training sessions
for athletes based on the demands of sports discipline, (Haddad et al., 2011). To have a good technicaltactical performance capacity, a Pencak silat athlete must be supported by excellent physical components
S1598
| 2021 | Proc4 | VOLUME 16
© 2021 University of Alicante
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
based on the demands of competition (Subekti et al., 2020). A special training model designed to meet the
demands of competition can improve the physical performance of athletes. It will result on athletes become
familiar with the frequency of technical movements and the ratio of motion when simulating the match
(Ouergui et al., 2019). To the date, there is no literature that provides specific information about the structure
of the movement of time in official Pencak silat fights. We only found two studies that specifically investigated
Pencak silat competitions. The first study we found (Aziz et al., 2002), investigated about the physiological
demands relevant to the elite exponents of pencak silat during competition. This study tends to highlight the
response during the match and physiological attributes through test procedures in the laboratory, there are
no results explained regarding the structure of the time performance required during the pencak silat
competition Second, identify the performance characteristics associated with successful exponents in pencak
silat combat (Soo et al., 2018). Although this study involves time-movement analysis, this study specifically
emphasizes the description of movement patterns and technical and tactical characteristics during silat
competitions. The two studies have not provided information regarding the demands of time movement,
based on the intensity of motion of various categories of silat competition divisions.
Based on this phenomenon, researchers are interested in conducting an investigation of the time structure
of the movement of elite athletes during pencak silat fights, as a basis for compiling a tactical guide for a
special pencak silat training program. The purpose of this study is to describe the structure of the movement
time of elite level pencak silat competitions in official competitions (national and international) in different
weight class divisions (light, middle and heavy) and the period of the competition rounds (1st round, 2nd
round, and 3rd round). The results of this study can be used as a reference for trainers in arranging special
training sessions for Pencak silat based on disciplinary demands.
METHODS
Experimental approach to the problem
In accordance with the explanation above, which states that the characteristics of the Pencak silat combat
are open and full of body contact. Time movement structure during the match was investigated through video
observation of matches at three Pencak silat championships in elite athletes (national and international)
downloaded from the official website of the 2016 Indonesian National Sports Week, the 2017 Sea Games in
Malaysia and the Asian Games in Indonesia 2018. Analysis of the timing of the championships world is
recommended as an alternative to obtain realistic values and comparisons of different variables during highlevel athlete competition (Carling & Bloomfield, 2013; Ouergui et al., 2014). Movement time structure (HIA,
LIA and Pause) of all fighters were recorded during the battle period (2 minutes, 3 rounds, 1 minute passive
rest between rounds).
In this study, the time movement activity profile was differentiated by weight class category and competition
round. According to literature (Bridge et al., 2011; Ouergui et al., 2014; Francesco Tornello et al., 2014)
considering the characteristics of combat sports activities, the time structure (duration and number of
sequences of each time variable) is determined and classified into 3 phases: (a) HIA (high intensity activity):
offensive or defensive action; (b) LIA (low intensity activity): preparation and observation; (c) OP (off position)
the referee's "stop" signal pauses. The ratio between the duration of HIA and LIA + referee breaks is
calculated. In addition, the total game time of each round was identified in this study.
Participants
The University's Bureau of Research and Community Service has approved the conduct of this research in
accordance with ethical standards in sports science research. A total of 48 matches in three official
VOLUME 16 | Proc4 | 2021 | S1599
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
championships (national and international) with a total (n = 144) grouped by weight category; (i.e., lightweight:
> 45 to < 60 kg; middle class: > 61 to < 70 kg; and heavyweight: > 71 to < 95 kg).
Procedures
Video observations of matches involve experienced and professional practitioners who are proficient with the
pencak silat competition system, this study record the time spent and duration of each variable (HIA, LIA,
referee breaks) and the total time of the match. To avoid inter-observer variability, it is recommended to
involve a single observer who is responsible for conducting time-motion analysis, referring to similar studies
in kick-boxing, Muay Thai (Ouergui et al., 2014; Silva et al., 2011), and taekwondo (Francesco Tornello et
al., 2014). To verify reliability, a total of 48 matches were randomly selected with the same number (15
matches each) from 3 elite pencak silat championships (national and international). The selected videos were
re-analysed using the Nero ShowTime program (Version 2; Toshiba Samsung Storage Technology
Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) for 7 consecutive days after the first observation (Fabrício Boscolo Del Vecchio
et al., 2011). Reliability was verified using intraclass coefficients (ICCs). ICC for each variable; HIA = 0.99,
LIA = 0.99, and referee pause = 1, representing a high reliability profile for ratters performing combat analysis.
To identify the time structure of the movement, the initial stage is to examine several pencak silat fights from
the three official championships (national and international) to identify the characteristics of the typical
activities and the phases of activities that occur frequently, as used in other studies (Bridge et al., 2011;
Casolino et al., 2012). Furthermore, the results of the identification of the timing motion system were
developed as needed (Table 1), to obtain the possibility of a comprehensive assessment of the activity profile
during the fight.
Table 1. Classification of movement during Pencak silat combat matches
High Intensity Activity
Low Intensity Activity
Off Position
Offense
Footwork rule
Referee stops (between actions
and between rounds)
All tactical "attacking" actions
Standing, alert attitude, rarely
TKO
involve technical actions
approaching/away, turning,
(punches, kicks, and takedown) shifting, non-contact active
carried out with full power and
motion.
speed
Defence
Fake move
Injury
All tactical action (defence)
Movement to deceive the
Foul
involving or not technical action opponent with limbs (hands, feet,
head, other body parts)
full power and speed
Self-defence action (Block,
Interruption and error on digital
parry slip left/right, role
scoring system
clockwise/anticlockwise, foot
defence
Statistical analysis
In this study, the statistical test process was carried out using software; IBM SPSS Version 25.0, is presented
in terms of Mean and SD for selected variables. Two-Way Anova analysis (three class categories: light,
middle, heavy) with 3 rounds of matches (1, 2, and 3) refers to previous studies; kickboxing (Ouergui et al.,
2014). Analysis of variance model to compare the indicators of time and number of HIA, LIA, OP (off position
period), the ratio between HIA / (LIA + OP) and total match time determined through repeated measurements
S1600
| 2021 | Proc4 | VOLUME 16
© 2021 University of Alicante
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
to get round numbers. All variables were measured with their estimated roundness verified according to W
Mauchlytes and Greenhouse-geisser correction if necessary. If differences are found, Bonferroni's post hoc
test is applied. For effect size calculated at each output is interpreted based on the effect size scale: trivial <
0.2; small 0.2-0.6; moderate 0.6-1.2; large 1.2-2.0; and very large > 2.0 (7). The level of significance p = .05
was determined in this statistical test.
RESULT
The results of statistical analysis are presented in Table 2 and Table 3 with information (mean ± SD). The
data shows the average time duration and total time of the HIA, LIA and OP time movement activities from
each weight class category during the match. As for the data on the average frequency of repetition of
activities as a whole, it is presented in Table 4.
Table 2. The duration of each high, low intensity activity and the referee's pause during a pencak silat fight
(n = 144)
HIA (s)
LIA (s)
OP (s)
HIA / (LIA + Pause) ratio
Light Weight Class
Round 1
2.3 ± 0.7
11.1 ± 3.8
11.9 ± 1.4
0.1 ± 0.0
Round 2
2.6 ± 0.6
7.1 ± 3.3
10.9 ± 1.2
0.1 ± 0.0
Round 3
2.6 ± 0.8
5.5 ± 2.7
10.4 ± 2.2
0.1 ± 0.0
Middle Weight Class
Round 1
2.6 ± 0.5
11.3 ± 3.3
11.8 ± 1.9
0.1 ± 0.0
Round 2
2.6 ± 0.4
8.6 ± 2.6
11.5 ± 1.9
0.1 ± 0.0
Round 3
2.7 ± 07
6.0 ± 2.5
11.9 ± 1.4
0.1 ± 0.0
Heavy Weight Class
Round 1
2.6 ± 0.6
10.6 ± 3.5
11.6 ± 2.2
0.1 ± 0.0
Round 2
2.9 ± 07
8.0 ± 2.7
10.2 ± 1.8
0.1 ± 0.0
Round 3
2.8 ± 0.5
7.1 ± 2.7
11.3 ± 1.3
0.1 ± 0.0
Average of all round 1
2.5 ± 0.6
11.0 ± 3.5
11.7 ± 1.8
0.1 ± 0.0
Average of all round 2
2.7 ± 0.6
7.9 ± 2.9
10.9 ± 1.7
0.1 ± 0.0
Average of all round 3
2.7 ± 0.6
6.2 ± 2.6
11.3 ± 1.8
0.1 ± 0.0
Average of 3 rounds
2.6 ± 0.6
8.4 ± 3.6
11.3 ± 1.8
0.1 ± 0.0
There was no significant difference for the weight division category (F6,26 = 1.77; p > .001; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.92;
ƞp2 = 0.03) on the average duration of time for each activity with high, low intensity and off position (Table
2). As for the match period (F6,26 = 9.70; p < .001; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.67; ƞp2 = 0.18), there was a striking difference
(p < .001) in the low intensity activity "LIA" in each round of the match with its effects ƞp2 = 0.30), where the
average value of the first half LIA time (11.05 ± 3.5) was higher than the second half (7.9 ± 2.9), and the third
round (6.2 ± 2.6). Meanwhile, for the duration of high intensity "HIA" and the referee's pause "OP" no
significant difference was found, each of which had a significance value of p > .001. Likewise, the interaction
factor of weight division and match round did not find the main effect (F12.35 = 0.71; p > .001; Wilk's Ʌ =
0.93; ƞp2 = 0.02) on the average duration of time for each movement activity during the fight.
VOLUME 16 | Proc4 | 2021 | S1601
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
Table 3. The total time duration of each high, low intensity activity and the referee's pause during a pencak
silat fight (n = 144)
HIA (s)
LIA (s)
OP (s)
Light Weight Class
Round 1
20.2 ± 11.9
92.4 ± 20.8
68.6 ± 27.5
Round 2
30.6 ± 16.2
82.8 ± 31.4
97.4 ± 38.6
Round 3
41.5 ± 20.0
76.6 ± 32.3
120.9 ± 63.0
Middle Weight Class
Round 1
20.1 ± 8.1
92.4 ± 24.9
58.7 ± 30.2
Round 2
30.0 ± 8.4
99.7 ± 25.2
81.6 ± 36.4
Round 3
39.0 ± 14.9
91.1 ± 54.2
112.4 ± 43.5
Heavy Weight Class
Round 1
18.1 ± 10.1
83.6 ± 30.6
63.2 ± 35.7
Round 2
31.9 ± 13.4
84.7 ± 20.4
76.9 ± 46.9
Round 3
41.6 ± 16.4
99.8 ± 37.9
119.0 ± 50.5
Average of all round 1
19.5 ± 9.8
89.7 ± 25.5
63.2 ± 30.8
Average of all round 2
30.5 ± 12.5
89.7 ± 26.6
85.1 ± 40.7
Average of all round 3
40.6 ± 16.7
89.3 ± 43.5
117.1 ± 51.4
Average of 3 rounds
30.3 ± 15.8
89.6 ± 32.7
88.5 ± 47.1
Table 4. Frequency of the duration of each high, low intensity activity and the referee's pause during the
pencak silat fight (n = 144)
Number of HIA
Number of LIA
Number of OP
Light Weight Class
Round 1
8.0 ± 3.2
9.0 ± 2.5
5.8 ± 2.3
Round 2
11.7 ± 4.7
12.8 ± 4.3
8.9 ± 3.4
Round 3
15.2 ± 4.4
14.4 ± 5.7
11.2 ± 4.9
Middle Weight Class
Round 1
7.7 ± 2.9
8.6 ± 2.6
4.9 ± 2.3
Round 2
11.3 ± 3.1
12.1 ± 3.2
7.1 ± 3.1
Round 3
14.3 ± 4.3
14.7 ± 3.9
9.6 ± 4.3
Heavy Weight Class
Round 1
6.8 ± 3.5
8.4 ± 3.4
5.4 ± 3.0
Round 2
10.9 ± 3.8
11.4 ± 4.1
7.4 ± 3.7
Round 3
14.3 ± 4.3
14.7 ± 3.9
10.4 ± 4.2
Average of all round 1
7.5 ± 3.2
8.6 ± 2.8
5.3 ± 2.5
Average of all round 2
11.3 ± 3.8
12.1 ± 3.8
7.7 ± 3.4
Average of all round 3
14.6 ± 4.1
14.9 ± 4.4
10.3 ± 4.4
Average of 3 rounds
11.1 ± 4.7
11.9 ± 4.5
7.8 ± 4.1
There was no significant difference for the weight division category (F6.26 = 1.23; p > .001; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.94;
ƞp2 = 0.02) to the total duration of high, low and off position activities (Table 3). Meanwhile, for the match
period (F6,26 = 10.17; p < .001; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.66; ƞp2 = 0.18), there was a significant difference (p < .001) in
high-intensity activities "HIA" and off position "OP" with their respective effects (ƞ2 = 0.29; ƞp2 = 0.22), where
the total duration of high-intensity time in the third half (40.6 ± 16.7) was higher than the second half (30.3 ±
12.5) and the third half (19.5 ± 9.8) . Likewise, for the “off position” activity, the third half (117.1 ± 51.4) was
S1602
| 2021 | Proc4 | VOLUME 16
© 2021 University of Alicante
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
higher than the second half (85.1 ± 40.7) and the first half (63.2 ± 30.8). However, for low intensity “LIA” with
values (p > .001; ƞp2 < 0.001), there was no major difference or effect on the total duration of time in each
half of the match (1, 2 and 3). Likewise, the interaction factor of weight division and match round did not find
the main effect (F12.35 = 0.67; p > .001; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.94; ƞp2 = 0.20) on the average total time duration of
each movement activity during the fight.
There was no significant effect on each weight division (F6.26 = 1.08; p > .001; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.95; ƞp2 = 0.02)
on the frequency of repetition of each high, low and off position activity (Table 4). Meanwhile, for the
comparison of the three match periods: (rounds 1, 2 and 3), there were significant differences in body weight
(F6.26 = 13.44; 0.1 ± 0.0; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.58; ƞp2 = 0.23) with respect to the frequency of repetition of the three
activities during the fight. The average frequency of each activity tends to increase; HIA (act 1: 7.5 ± 3.2; act
2: 11.3 ± 3.8; act 3: 14.6 ± 4.1), LIA (act 1: 8.4 ± 3.4; act 2: 12.1 ± 3.8; act 3: 7.7 ± 3.4), and OP (act 1: 5.3
± 2.5; act 2: 7.7 ± 3.4; act 3: 10.3 ± 4.4). Meanwhile, for the interaction factor of weight division and match
round, there was no major effect (F12.35 = 0.10; p > .001; Wilk's Ʌ = 0.99; ƞp2 = 0.003) on the average
duration of each movement activity during the fight.
In addition, the ratio of duration of combat and non-combat activities was found (0.1 ± 0.0), for all categories
of weight division and round of competition (Table 2). The difference that appeared (p > .05) in the match
period between rounds 1-2 (p = .004), rounds 1-3 (p = .0001), but between rounds 2-3 did not show a
significant difference (p = .33).
DISCUSSION
To the researcher's knowledge, this study is the first to be conducted in the sport of Pencak silat. This study
aims to identify the structure of the activity (movement of time) during combat matches at the elite Pencak
silat championships (national and international) and linked by weight division and match round. The results
of data analysis in this study indicate that the structure of the activity (time motion) of the pencak silat fight is
modulated in various fighting periods (rounds of the match). The fact is that during the fighting period, the
duration of the low-intensity motion activity and off position is higher than the duration of the high-intensity
activity. Although the difference in weight division does not affect, the duration of high-intensity activity and
off position is more stable, while for low-intensity activities it is more dynamic in each period of the match.
The total time duration of the three weight divisions in each match period, high intensity activities and off
position tends to increase from the first, second to third half. However, low-intensity activities have a higher
total time duration and are dynamic for each period of the match. As for the frequency of repetition of the
three activities (high, low and off position), it shows that it is not influenced by the weight division factor, so it
can be explained that there is no significant difference in relation to the three weight divisions for each activity
frequency. However, the frequency of repetition of the three activities (high, low and off position) is different
from each period of the match round, where it is found that the frequency increases from the first, second to
third round.
In general, the results of this study indicate that the duration of combat and non-combat activities during elite
pencak silat fights has the characteristics of an intermittent activity pattern. The average duration of HIA
combat activity time (2.6 ± 0.6 seconds), and usually interspersed with a preparatory phase of LIA nonfighting activity on average (8.4 ± 3.6 seconds). In addition, in a fighting situation there is a "pause" or period
of stopping from the referee (off position) with an average time (11.3 ± 1.8 seconds), while for the ratio of
time between fighting and non-combat activities the value (0.1 ± 0.0) is found.
VOLUME 16 | Proc4 | 2021 | S1603
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
This result is different from taekwondo martial arts, although the structure or pattern of activities is technicaltactical (HIA, LIA, and referee pause), but both show different durations of movement. The combat phase in
taekwondo averages 2.2 ± 1.2 seconds, lower than that of pencak silat fights. for the preparatory or nonfighting phase the average was 2.2 ± 0.7 seconds, which is faster than the average duration of time in pencak
silat (Table 2). while the referee pause phase is 2.2 ± 1.2 seconds on average, and the referee pause phase
is shorter, i.e. 5.4 ± 4.5 seconds on average (Bridge et al., 2011).
In line with the results of field measurements on elite pencak silat exponents carried out by (Aziz et al., 2002),
explained that the pattern of pencak silat combat games has characteristics of motion (start-stop), and there
is a wide fluctuation between periods of high-intensity movement activity and pauses (non-fighting) during a
match. From all periods of time, it shows a 1:9 working ratio between fighting and non-fighting activities. This
result is different from the work ratio in other fighting sports, for example muaythai 1:4 (Silva et al., 2011),
karate 1:4 (Beneke et al., 2004), taekwondo 1:3 (Bridge et al., 2011; F. Tornello et al., 2011), MMA (Casolino
et al., 2012) and Kickboxing 1:1 (Ashker, 2011; Ouergui et al., 2014). Agreed with the statement of (Ouergui
et al., 2014) that the difference in combat and non-combat phases in martial arts is influenced by the
technical, tactical, and regulatory characteristics of each of these sports, such as the knockout system and
control system, the duration of the match.
Without debating the difference in weight class and the referee's pause, the comparison of the movement
time of the fight phase in both offense and defence and the preparation phase during the normal time of the
match shows the percentage of 40% and 60%. This value is almost similar to the findings in kickboxing
(Ouergui et al., 2014), however, in contrast to the findings in Muay Thai combat, which explains that the
fighting phase has a percentage of 60% of the total time, and 40% is used for the preparation phase (nonfighting). This proves that there are differences in the demands of time movement in the activity phase of
various types of combat sports, although there are similarities in technical and tactical terms (Davis et al.,
2013).
From the results of data analysis from the entire match round, information can be obtained that the activity
profile of time motion is modulated by the period or phase of the battle in the match, where there is a decrease
in the average duration of activity with low intensity "LIA" in each sequence of the match period. As for highintensity activities, "HIA" and off position "OP" are relatively more stable during each match period. This
finding is similar to the results of previous studies in taekwondo competitions, where there was a significant
decrease in movement activity during the preparation phase in each round of the match (Bridge et al., 2011).
Different from the research results (Santos et al., 2019), which stated that among low-intensity activities (nonfighting) had a higher time duration in the third round than in the previous round (1 and 2). However, there
are similar findings related to the frequency of repetition of fighting activities, which both experienced an
increase in each match period from rounds 1 to 2 to round 3. The highest number of fighting actions was in
round 3, this was explained because of the effort factor of an athlete in position lose points, so to catch up, it
is necessary to increase the rhythm of attack in the hope of obtaining victory at the end of the match.
Meanwhile, the frequency of low-intensity activities in the “preparation phase” actually decreased the number
of repetitions in each match period. This decrease in time duration and frequency.
Likewise, the total time for high-intensity activities "HIA" and off position "OP" increased sequentially in each
match period, but it was different for low-intensity activities "LIA" the total time was relatively more balanced
in each match period. The decrease in the duration of low-intensity motion activities, followed by an increase
in the number of high- and low-intensity motion activities at each turn of the round of the match, may be
caused by the change in score and referee intervention during the period of round-by-half match. This can
S1604
| 2021 | Proc4 | VOLUME 16
© 2021 University of Alicante
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
be observed from the actions or clinch actions taken by the two fighters with increasing numbers from round
to round, especially for athletes who feel they have higher points than their opponents, so as not to be
overtaken, they try to block attacks from their opponents. On the other hand, in the position of a fighter who
is missing a point, in each round of the match he tries to attack as much as possible to generate points in the
hope of winning the fight.
Although the duration of high-intensity movement activity did not change in each round, the total time duration
and frequency of repetition of high-intensity activity increased in the second and third rounds. This can be
explained by the possibility that pencak silat exponents tend to use combination techniques (punches and
kicks), or attacks of more than 2 types in a row rather than using a single technique (one point), as an effort
to change the situation and the numbers on the scoreboard. While the decrease in the duration of lowintensity motion activities in the second and third rounds, explained the possibility that in the first half the silat
exponents carried out the process of observing the movement and characteristics of the opponent's motion,
as their consideration of executing attack actions.
CONCLUSION
This study shows that there is a change in the intensity of each movement activity during a silat competition,
where the weight division has no real effect on the three types of activity. Timed movement activity during
combat is modulated over various periods of the match; the duration of time for high-intensity activities has
a shorter record time (2.6 seconds/round) than low-intensity activities (8.4 seconds/round) and the off position
phase is 11.3 seconds/round) and the ratio of fighting and non-combat activities is found (1:9). The total time
required for each weight division, for high-intensity activities and off position tends to increase in the period
of the next round of matches (1-2-3), while low-intensity activities are more varied. The frequency of repetition
of the three movement activities, all weight divisions tend to increase in each subsequent round of the match
(1-2-3), where the frequency of low-intensity activities is the highest compared to high-intensity activities and
off position.
These results provide important information for special training sessions for pencak silat considering the
duration of time, the ratio of combat vs non-combat, and the frequency of technical and tactical actions (for
example, offensive and defensive actions) that reflect the structure of movement activities in pencak silat
fights in the arena. So that athlete will get used to or quickly adapt to real fighting situations.
What is interesting and should be noted is that the time structure and intensity of the pencak silat fight are
proven not to be influenced by the weight class category but are modulated by each period of the match. The
same is found in kickboxing (Ouergui et al., 2014). In contrast to the literature found on taekwondo (Bridge
et al., 2011), which explains that the activity profile in international taekwondo competitions is modulated by
weight category. There is no difference in the pencak silat match, it could be because the physical demands
and technical maturity in elite competition athletes have the same standards from various weight divisions.
Practical application
Pencak silat from the point of view of the work of the metabolic energy system leads to intermittent nature,
involving high-intensity movement activities and interspersed with periods (intervals) of low intensity. The
findings of this study provide important information and a framework for trainers in planning special
conditioning sessions for pencak silat based on the demands of elite-level match-time movement activities.
To achieve athlete fitness standards, coaches can develop training plans by considering the structure of
specific activities of pencak silat combat, including the ratio of fighting vs non-fighting work. High-intensity
VOLUME 16 | Proc4 | 2021 | S1605
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
interval training is recommended as an exercise method developed specifically involving the technical
aspects of either a single technique or a combination, a duration of 2-3 seconds for high-intensity activities
and rest breaks of 5-10 seconds for periods of low or moderate intensity. In addition, circuit training protocols
may be used for training technical and tactical functional demands, paying attention to movement patterns in
dynamic matches.
CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
The author declares that there is no conflict of interests regarding the text of this article.
REFERENCES
Amtmann, J., & Berry, S. (2003). Strength and conditioning for reality fighting. Strength & Conditioning
Journal, 25(2), 67-72. https://doi.org/10.1519/00126548-200304000-00012
Artioli, G. G., Gualano, B., Franchini, E., Batista, R. N., Polacow, V. O., & Lancha Jr, A. H. (2009).
Physiological, performance, and nutritional profile of the Brazilian Olympic Wushu (kung-fu) team.
The
Journal
of
Strength
&
Conditioning
Research,
23(1),
20-25.
https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e318187687a
Ashker, S. El. (2011). Technical and tactical aspects that differentiate winning and losing performances
in boxing. International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport, 11(2), 356-364.
https://doi.org/10.1080/24748668.2011.11868555
Aziz, A. R., Tan, B., & Teh, K. C. (2002). Physiological responses during matches and profile of elite
pencak silat exponents. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine.
Beneke, R., Beyer, T., Jachner, C., Erasmus, J., & Hütler, M. (2004). Energetics of karate kumite.
European Journal of Applied Physiology, 92(4), 518-523. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-004-1073x
Bridge, C. A., Jones, M. A., & Drust, B. (2011). The activity profile in international taekwondo competition
is modulated by weight category. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 6(3),
344-357. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.6.3.344
Bridge, C. A., Sparks, A. S., McNaughton, L. R., Close, G. L., Hausen, M., Gurgel, J., & Drust, B. (2018).
Repeated exposure to taekwondo combat modulates the physiological and hormonal responses to
subsequent bouts and recovery periods. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 32(9),
2529-2541. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000002591
Buse, G. J., & Santana, J. C. (2008). Conditioning strategies for competitive kickboxing. Strength &
Conditioning Journal, 30(4), 42-48. https://doi.org/10.1519/SSC.0b013e31817f19cd
Carling, C., & Bloomfield, J. (2013). Time-motion analysis. In Routledge handbook of sports performance
analysis (pp. 301-314). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203806913-35
Casolino, E., Lupo, C., Cortis, C., Chiodo, S., Minganti, C., Capranica, L., & Tessitore, A. (2012).
Technical and tactical analysis of youth taekwondo performance. The Journal of Strength &
Conditioning Research, 26(6), 1489-1495. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e318231a66d
Challis, D., Scruton, A., Cole, M., & Callan, M. (2015). A time-motion analysis of lightweight women's
judo in the 2010 World Championships. International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching, 10(23), 479-486. https://doi.org/10.1260/1747-9541.10.2-3.479
Crisafulli, A., Vitelli, S., Cappai, I., Milia, R., Tocco, F., Melis, F., & Concu, A. (2009). Physiological
responses and energy cost during a simulation of a Muay Thai boxing match. Applied Physiology,
Nutrition, and Metabolism, 34(2), 143-150. https://doi.org/10.1139/H09-002
S1606
| 2021 | Proc4 | VOLUME 16
© 2021 University of Alicante
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
Davis, P., Wittekind, A., & Beneke, R. (2013). Amateur boxing: activity profile of winners and losers.
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 8(1), 84-92.
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.8.1.84
Degoutte, F., Jouanel, P., & Filaire, E. (2003). Energy demands during a judo match and recovery. British
Journal of Sports Medicine, 37(3), 245-249. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.37.3.245
Del Vecchio, F B, Coswig, V. S., & Neves, A. H. S. (2012). Wrestling combat sports: biochemical,
hematologic and hormonal responses. Braz J Exerc Physiol, 11(4), 246-254.
Del Vecchio, Fabrício Boscolo, Hirata, S. M., & Franchini, E. (2011). A review of time-motion analysis
and combat development in mixed martial arts matches at regional level tournaments. Perceptual
and Motor Skills. https://doi.org/10.2466/05.25.PMS.112.2.639-648
Fatoni, M., Nugroho, H., & Subekti, N. (2019). Antropometri Factors Determinants of Pencak Silat
Tanding Category. 4th Progressive and Fun Education International Conference (PFEIC 2019).
https://doi.org/10.2991/pfeic-19.2019.9
Ghosh, A. K. (2010). Heart rate, oxygen consumption and blood lactate responses during specific training
in amateur boxing. International Journal of Applied Sports Sciences, 22(1), 1-12.
https://doi.org/10.24985/ijass.2010.22.1.1
Haddad, M., Chaouachi, A., Wong, D., Castagna, C., & Chamari, K. (2011). Heart rate responses and
training load during nonspecific and specific aerobic training in adolescent taekwondo athletes.
Journal of Human Kinetics, 29(1), 59-66. https://doi.org/10.2478/v10078-011-0040-y
Herrera-Valenzuela, T., Ibieta, C., Saez Fuentes, M., Saez-Madain, P., Cancino Lopez, J., Verdugo, F.,
Ramirez-Campillo, R., Valdes-Badilla, P., Pardo, C., & Franchini, E. (2019). Physiological responses
of elite karate athletes during simulated competition. Ido Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial
Arts Anthropology, 19(4), 45-50.
Hughes, M., & Franks, I. (2007). The essentials of performance analysis: an introduction. Routledge.
https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203938065
International Pencak Silat Federation. (2013). Competition Regulations (1st ed.).
Kons, R. L., Franchini, E., & Detanico, D. (2018). Relationship between physical fitness, attacks and
effectiveness in short-and long-duration judo matches. International Journal of Performance Analysis
in Sport, 18(6), 1024-1036. https://doi.org/10.1080/24748668.2018.1545198
Kraemer, W. J., Vescovi, J. D., & Dixon, P. (2004). The physiological basis of wrestling: Implications for
conditioning
programs.
Strength
&
Conditioning
Journal,
26(2),
10-15.
https://doi.org/10.1519/00126548-200404000-00001
Matsushigue, K. A., Hartmann, K., & Franchini, E. (2009). Taekwondo: Physiological responses and
match analysis. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 23(4), 1112-1117.
https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181a3c597
Miarka, B., Del Vecchio, F. B., Julianetti, R., Cury, R., Camey, S., & Franchini, E. (2016). Time-motion
and tactical analysis of Olympic judo fighters. International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport,
16(1), 133-142. https://doi.org/10.1080/24748668.2016.11868876
Miles, M. P., Andring, J. M., Pearson, S. D., Gordon, L. K., Kasper, C., Depner, C. M., & Kidd, J. R.
(2008). Diurnal variation, response to eccentric exercise, and association of inflammatory mediators
with muscle damage variables. Journal of Applied Physiology, 104(2), 451-458.
https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.00572.2007
Moreira, A., Arsati, F., de Oliveira Lima-Arsati, Y. B., Franchini, E., & De Araújo, V. C. (2010). Effect of a
kickboxing match on salivary cortisol and immunoglobulin A. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 111(1),
158-166. https://doi.org/10.2466/05.06.16.25.PMS.111.4.158-166
VOLUME 16 | Proc4 | 2021 | S1607
Subekti, et al. / Time motion analysis in Pencak silat elite combat match
JOURNAL OF HUMAN SPORT & EXERCISE
Morton, J. P., Robertson, C., & Sutton, L. (2010). Making the weight: a case study from professional
boxing. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 20(1), 80-85.
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.20.1.80
Ouergui, I., Benyoussef, A., Houcine, N., Abedelmalek, S., Franchini, E., Gmada, N., Bouhlel, E., &
Bouassida, A. (2019). Physiological Responses and Time-Motion Analysis of Kickboxing:
Differences Between Full Contact, Light Contact, and Point Fighting Contests. Journal of Strength
and Conditioning Research, Publish Ah(20). https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003190
Ouergui, I., Hssin, N., Franchini, E., Gmada, N., & Bouhlel, E. (2013). Technical and tactical analysis of
high level kickboxing matches. International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport.
https://doi.org/10.1080/24748668.2013.11868649
Ouergui, I., Hssin, N., Haddad, M., Franchini, E., Behm, D. G., Wong, D. P., Gmada, N., & Bouhlel, E.
(2014). Time-motion analysis of elite male kickboxing competition. Journal of Strength and
Conditioning Research. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000000579
Santos, J. F. da S., Dias Wilson, V., Herrera-Valenzuela, T., & Sander Mansur Machado, F. (2019). TimeMotion Analysis and Physiological Responses to Taekwondo Combat in Juvenile and Adult Athletes.
Strength and Conditioning Journal, 1. https://doi.org/10.1519/ssc.0000000000000517
Silva, J. J. R., Del Vecchio, F. B., Picanço, L. M., Takito, M. Y., & Franchini, E. (2011). Time-motion
analysis in Muay-Thai and kick-boxing amateur matches. Journal of Human Sport and Exercise, 6(3),
490-496. https://doi.org/10.4100/jhse.2011.63.02
Soo, J., Woods, C. T., Arjunan, S. P., Aziz, A. R., & Ihsan, M. (2018). Identifying the performance
characteristics explanatory of fight outcome in elite Pencak Silat matches. International Journal of
Performance Analysis in Sport, 18(6), 973-985. https://doi.org/10.1080/24748668.2018.1539381
Subekti, N., Fatoni, M., & Sudarmanto, E. (2019). Belajar dan Berlatih Pencak Silat (Muhammadiyah
University Press (ed.); 1st ed.). Universitas Muhaamadiyah Surakarta.
Subekti, N., Sistiasih, V. S., Syaukani, A. A., & Fatoni, M. (2020). Kicking ability in pencak silat, reviewed
from eye-foot coordination, speed, and ratio of limb length-body height. Journal of Human Sport and
Exercise
2020
Winter
Conferences
of
Sports
Science.
https://doi.org/10.14198/jhse.2020.15.Proc2.36
Tornello, F., Minganti, C., Chiodo, S., & Tessitore, A. (2011). Time motion analysis of youth taekwondo
combats. Annals of Research in Sport and Physical Activity. https://doi.org/10.14195/21827087_2_25
Tornello, Francesco, Capranica, L., Minganti, C., Chiodo, S., Condello, G., & Tessitore, A. (2014).
Technical-tactical analysis of youth Olympic taekwondo combat. Journal of Strength and
Conditioning Research. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000000255
This work is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0).
S1608
| 2021 | Proc4 | VOLUME 16
© 2021 University of Alicante