The relationship between the mood states and physiological markers after Nihon kendo kata

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the profile of mood states (POMS) and physiological responses after Nihon kendo kata. Twelve male kendo players (22-74 years old, higher than third-grade of kendo) performed each Uchitachi and Shitachi in Nihon Kendo kata. Heart rate measurements and blood sample collections were conducted before and after the kata, and the profile of mood states (POMS) was completed after and before the kata. The blood sample was used to measure adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and free testosterone concentrations. The heart rate was significantly increased (P < 0.05) after the kata. No change was observed in the concentrations of measured hormones and the POMS. Significant positive correlations between the concentration of DHEA and vigor (r = 0.59, P < 0.05) and heart rate and anger (r = 0.61, P < 0.05) were found after the kata only. Significant negative correlations were found between the concentration of free testosterone and fatigue (r = -0.87, P < 0.01) and anger (r = -0.65, P <0.05) after the kata only. Furthermore, partial correlation showed the significant positive correlations between the concentration of DHEA and vigor (r = 0.65, P < 0.05) before the kata, and the correlation increased after the kata (r = 0.73, P < 0.05). The present study suggests that Nihon Kendo kata may affect mood status and physiological response.