Energy System Contribution in Kabaddi: Aerobic, Anaerobic Lactic, and Alactic Demands

Abstract

Kabaddi is a high-intensity intermittent team combat sport characterized by repeated short-duration maximal efforts interspersed with brief recovery periods. Understanding the relative contribution of aerobic, anaerobic lactic, and anaerobic alactic energy systems is essential for designing sport-specific conditioning and recovery strategies. This study examines the proportional energy system demands of elite Kabaddi match play using simulated competition data, physiological modeling, and comparative evidence from combat and invasion sports. Energy contributions are analyzed across match phases and playing positions, including raiders, defenders, and all-rounders. Results are presented using pie-chart visualizations to clearly depict proportional energy system usage. Findings indicate a dominant anaerobic contribution during decisive actions, supported by a substantial aerobic component for recovery and repeated-effort sustainability. The study provides an evidence-based framework for metabolic conditioning, workload management, and performance optimization in elite Kabaddi.