by
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie & Haziq Samsuddin
Leader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)
Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
Name of Research:
Silat Tempur vs Silat Olahraga: Which Is the Best Combat Sport for Children?
Citations:
Samsuddin, H., & Shapie, M. N. M. (2021). In G. Zhang & T. Green (Eds.), Martial Arts, Combat Sports, and Mutual Learning of Civilizations in the Post-epidemic Era: 10th IMACSSS International Conference (pp. 51–57). Chongqing, China: College of Physical Education, Southwest University.
Purpose of the Study:
To compare Silat Tempur and Silat Olahraga in terms of suitability, safety, and effectiveness for children’s development in martial arts, and to determine which format is more appropriate for youth participation.
Key Findings:
- Silat Tempur:
- Designed as a beginner-friendly combat sport for children aged 7–12.
- Emphasizes basic techniques, safety, and controlled sparring.
- Uses protective gear and simplified rules to reduce injury risk.
- Encourages early technical and tactical development in a safe environment.
- Silat Olahraga:
- More advanced and competitive format.
- Higher physical demands and risk of injury due to full-contact nature.
- Suitable for older or more experienced athletes.
- Comparative Analysis:
- Silat Tempur is more suitable for early-stage development, focusing on motor skills, confidence building, and safe exposure to combat sports.
- Silat Olahraga is better for elite performance pathways, but may not be ideal for young beginners due to its intensity.
Practical Implications for Silat:
- Silat Tempur provides a structured, safe, and age-appropriate entry point for children into martial arts.
- It supports Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) by introducing foundational skills before transitioning to Silat Olahraga.
- Coaches and organizations should integrate Silat Tempur into youth programmes to nurture talent and reduce dropout rates due to injury or fear.
- Silat Tempur can be used as a screening and development tool for identifying future elite athletes.
Tips for Application:
Athletes (Children):
- Begin with Silat Tempur to learn basic techniques and build confidence.
- Progress to Silat Olahraga when physically and mentally ready.
Parents:
- Choose Silat Tempur for children’s first exposure to martial arts.
- Monitor progression and ensure safety and enjoyment are prioritized.
Coaches:
- Use Silat Tempur as a developmental stage in athlete training.
- Focus on technical mastery, discipline, and safe sparring.
- Transition athletes to Silat Olahraga based on readiness, not age alone.
