by
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie
Leader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)
Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
Name of Research:
Level of Drugs Usage and Sport Performance in Malay Silat
Citations:
Parnabas, V., Shapie, M. N. M., & Parnabas, J. (2015). IDO Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology, 15(2), 45–51. DOI: 10.14589/ido.15.2.7
Purpose of the Study:
To evaluate the motives behind drug usage among Malay Silat athletes and to examine the correlation between drug usage and sport performance in university-level Silat competitions.
Key Findings:
- Top Motives for Drug Use:
- Avoiding pain (Mean = 3.51)
- Achievement (Mean = 3.27)
- Gaining strength (Mean = 3.15)
- Relaxation and stress reduction were the lowest motives.
- Correlation:
- A statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.597, p < .01) was found between drug usage and sport performance.
- Demographics:
- Majority of drug-using athletes came from high-income families (46.6%).
- Most had over 5 years of experience in Silat.
Practical Implications:
- For Competitions:
- Drug use may temporarily enhance performance but poses ethical, health, and legal risks.
- Pain management and performance enhancement should be addressed through mental skills training and sports psychology.
- For Organizations (if not used for competition):
- Develop anti-doping education programmes.
- Implement drug testing protocols in Silat tournaments.
- Promote mental resilience and pain management strategies through certified sport psychologists.
Tips for Application:
Athletes:
- Avoid shortcuts like drugs; focus on long-term skill and strength development.
- Learn pain management techniques through proper training and psychological support.
Parents:
- Be aware of the pressures athletes face and support healthy coping mechanisms.
- Encourage open conversations about performance and well-being.
Coaches:
- Monitor athlete behavior and educate them on the dangers of drug use.
- Collaborate with sport psychologists to teach mental skills for pain and performance management.
- Advocate for clean sport and ethical competition.
