One-Week Home-Based HRV Biofeedback with Supervised Sessions Versus Passive Relaxation: Effects on Autonomic,...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Performance Psychology

Background:

• Heart Rate Variability (HRV) biofeedback is a potential tool for optimizing athletic performance.
• Eastern martial arts require precise sensorimotor control and technical execution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a one-week HRV biofeedback program on physiological indices, sensorimotor functions, and kata performance in Eastern martial arts athletes.

Main Methods:

• Forty high-level martial arts athletes were divided into a biofeedback (BFB) group and a control group.
• The BFB group underwent a hybrid HRV-BFB program including supervised resonance-frequency breathing and one week of home practice.
• Sensorimotor functions and kata performance were assessed before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• The BFB group showed significant improvements in movement oscillation frequency and blood volume pulse, with a tendency towards faster choice reaction time.
• Expert-rated kata performance scores significantly increased in the BFB group compared to the control group.
• HRV biofeedback training positively impacted autonomic regulation and fine motor control.

Conclusions:

• A one-week HRV biofeedback program can enhance autonomic regulation and sensorimotor functions in martial arts athletes.
• This training leads to significant improvements in the technical execution of kata routines.
• HRV biofeedback is a promising non-pharmacological intervention for optimizing performance in Eastern martial arts.