Purpose. The aim of the study was to examine differences in power-velocity characteristics, and the maximal power and height of rise of the body’s centre of mass, measured in the counter-movement jump (CMJ) and the spike jump (SPJ), between judoists, boxers and taekwondo athletes.

Methods. The study involved 7 judoists, 6 boxers, and 6 taekwondo athletes. The maximal power and height of jump were measured at CMJ and SPJ jumps. Force-velocity and power-velocity relations were determined on the basis of 5 maximal cycle ergometer exercise bouts at increasing external loads of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, and 12.5% of body weight (BW).

Results. The absolute and relative power and velocity recorded for an external force-velocity relationship were similar in the groups. A significant difference was only observed between taekwondo athletes and judoists for absolute power at the external load of 2.5% BW (p < 0.05). The judoists had significantly smaller relative maximal power in SPJ (p < 0.05) and height of rise of the body mass centre in CMJ (p < 0.05) than taekwondo athletes. The relative maximal power in CMJ and height of rise of the body mass centre in SPJ was similar in the groups.

Conclusions. In martial arts, training and competition should affect physical characteristics, including jumping and power. The power and velocity recorded for an external force-velocity relationship were similar in the groups. Judoists and boxers did not differ in terms of power or height of the jumps. Taekwondo athletes developed the biggest power and height of the jumps. This is consistent with the discipline characteristics.