Effects of high-intensity functional training on physical fitness and jumping difficulty movements among college male Wushu routine athletes in China

High-intensity functional training (HIFT) is increasingly recognised as a promising training method. However, its effects on Wushu athletes remain underexplored. This study evaluated the impact of HIFT on physical fitness components (strength, power, endurance, speed, and flexibility) and jumping difficulty movements (Flying Kick, Whirlwind Kick, Outward Leg Swing in Flight, and Side Somersault) among Chinese male Wushu routine athletes. A cluster-randomised controlled trial (cRCT) was conducted involving 60 male athletes aged 18 - 22 years, randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 30) or a control group (n = 30). The experimental group participated in HIFT, while the control group followed a standard Wushu training program consisting of conventional strength and endurance exercises. Both groups trained three times per week for 12 weeks. Data were collected at baseline, 6 weeks (post-test 1), and 12 weeks (post-test 2) using validated physical fitness and technical performance tests. Statistical analysis included analysis of variance (ANOVA) for normally distributed data (e.g., strength, power, endurance, flexibility, and jumping difficulty movements) and generalised estimating equations (GEE) for non-normally distributed data (e.g., speed). Results showed significant improvements in physical fitness and jumping difficulty movements for both groups (p < 0.001). Notable time and interaction effects (time × group) were observed for strength (f = 19.099, p < 0.001), power (f = 32.677, p < 0.001), endurance (f = 31.325, p < 0.001), speed (x2 = 41.899, p < 0.001), flexibility (f = 28.499, p < 0.001), Flying Kick (f = 36.394, p < 0.001), Whirlwind Kick (f = 29.120, p < 0.001), Outward Leg Swing in Flight (f = 10.423, p < 0.001), and Side Somersault (f = 26.280, p < 0.001). Improvements were evident after 6 weeks and became more pronounced after 12 weeks. Conclusion: HIFT proved more effective than standard training in enhancing physical fitness (strength, power, endurance, speed, and flexibility) and jump difficulty movements (Flying Kick, Whirlwind Kick, Outward Leg Swing in Flight, and Side Somersault), with significant improvements observed after a minimum of 6 weeks. These findings highlight the potential of HIFT as an effective training method for Wushu athletes. Future research should explore its application to female athletes, younger age groups, and other technical movements in Wushu.

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