OBJECTIVE ASSESSMENT OF RECOVERY AND TRAINING LOAD IN KICKBOXING ATHLETES BASED ON WHOOP FITNESS TRACKER DATA

Annotation The relevance of this research is determined by the growing intensity of training and competitive activity in kickboxing, the high demands on athletes' functional readiness, and the need to reduce the risks of fatigue and overtraining. Traditional approaches to monitoring training load and recovery are largely based on subjective assessments and episodic measurements, which limits the accuracy of decision-making. In this context, the introduction of continuous non-invasive biomonitoring using modern fitness trackers becomes especially important, as it provides objective physiological data under real training conditions. The purpose of the article is to scientifically substantiate the possibilities of objectively assessing recovery processes and training load in kickboxing athletes based on data from the WHOOP fitness tracker in order to improve the effectiveness of training management and prevent functional overstrain. Methods. The study employed theoretical analysis and generalization of scientific sources, systematization of biometric indicators, comparative analysis of dynamic physiological parameters, and logical-analytical methods to develop practical recommendations for applying fitness tracker data in the training process of kickboxers. Results. The informativeness of indicators such as heart rate variability, sleep characteristics, and cumulative physiological load in evaluating athletes' adaptive responses was examined. It was established that the dynamics of these parameters depend significantly on the intensity and structure of training and competitive workloads and demonstrate a distinct phase-based pattern across training cycles. The feasibility of using WHOOP data for both operative adjustment of training loads and strategic planning of the training process for athletes of different qualification levels was confirmed. Several scientific and practical challenges were identified, including high individual variability of physiological responses, difficulties in interpreting integrated indices, and the influence of non-training factors on biometric data. Conclusions. The use of WHOOP fitness tracker data expands the possibilities for objective control of the training process in kickboxing and contributes to improving the quality of management decisions, provided that these data are applied in combination with coaching analysis and principles of training periodization. Prospects for further research include the development of standardized models for interpreting biometric data in combat sports, the integration of digital monitoring with other physiological and psychofunctional indicators, and longitudinal studies aimed at assessing the impact of such technologies on adaptive stability and competitive performance in kickboxing athletes.