Armwrestling as a Means of Optimizing Cadets’ Physical Fitness under Martial Law

The article substantiates the academic and practical relevance of integrating armwrestling into the physical education system of cadets in higher military educational institutions during the legal regime of martial law. The ongoing military challenges and changes in modern warfare conditions require high-intensity development of cadets’ physical capabilities, structural optimization of training time, and adaptive training under limited space or infrastructure conditions. The study updates the implementation provisions of the current Instruction on Physical Training in the System of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine (Order No. 225). The purpose of the study was to theoretically ground and experimentally evaluate the effectiveness of an adapted training methodology based on armwrestling tools for improving cadets' strength and physical fitness within one academic semester. The research methodology involved a comprehensive approach, including theoretical analysis, pedagogical observation, expert assessment, pedagogical testing of strength qualities, and mathematical statistics for data processing. The study involved two groups of cadets (control and experimental, 22 individuals each). The experimental group additionally engaged in an adapted armwrestling program focused on isometric holding capacities, hand-wrist strength, and forearm muscle development utilizing portable equipment (rubber bands, adjustable dumbbells). The comparative analysis of empirical data revealed significant, highly realistic progress in the experimental group compared to the control group. Statistically significant improvements (p<0.05; p<0.01) were achieved in pull-ups on the horizontal bar (+9.2%), push-ups (+8.3%), handgrip dynamometry (+7.6%), and isometric static weight holding at a 90° elbow angle (+12.9%). The findings demonstrate high efficiency and autonomous potential of armwrestling integration for maximizing local muscle strength and functional stamina required for professional military activities under current stress-induced defense operational environments.