ABSTRACT
Many animals react to threatening stimuli such as a predator attacks by freezing. However, little experimental research investigated freeze response in humans. Here, we have employed practices commonly used in self-defense training to create two unique scenarios simulating armed physical threat. Sixty healthy men volunteers divided into three groups of twenty (untrained, trained but unexperienced, trained and experienced) underwent these scenarios accompanied by measurement of biochemical, physiological, and psychological markers of stress. Our results show that untrained individuals exhibit stronger freezing reactions, while highly skilled participants display the lowest propensity for freezing, especially in high-intensity scenarios. Moreover, the study shows variations in anxiety levels and selected biomarkers, with cortisol and osteocalcin showing different patterns in low and high-intensity scenarios, and suggests a complex interplay between these factors, electrodermal activity, and stress perception.
Subject(s)
Biological Factors , Self Concept , Male , Animals , Humans , Hydrocortisone , Stress, Psychological/psychologyABSTRACT
Although aikido is a non-competitive martial art, it is recognised by SportAccord as worldwide practiced combat sport. There is a lack of scientific research in aikido and the influence of aikido practice on the human body is not known. This is the first study that presents anthropometric characteristics and body composition data in aikido practitioners. 33 adult male aikido athletes (age 36.5±9.6 years, height 178±8 cm, weight 81.2±10.1 kg) were measured. All subjects were divided from beginner to intermediate and advanced group, and were recruited from the Czech Aikido Federation which is officially recognised by the centre of aikido in Japan. As main methods, bio impedance and skinfold measurements were realized. In aikido, body composition does not play an important role compared to other martial arts. Average values are similar to reference of non-athlete population (BMI 25.6±2.7 kg/m, BF 17.18±5.18 %, FFM 65.71±7.69 kg, BSA 1.98±0.15 m2). Even though, aikido has positive effects on body composition, it does not have a high impact. Thus, aikido players should also gain benefits from other aspects of martial arts.
A pesar de que el aikido es un arte marcial no competitivo, es reconocido por SportAccord como un deporte de combate practicado en todo el mundo. Existe escasa investigación científica sobre el aikido y la influencia de su práctica en el cuerpo humano. Este es el primer estudio que presenta las características antropométricas y datos de composición corporal en practicantes de Aikido. Se midieron 33 hombres adultos, atletas de aikido (edad 36,5±9,6 años, altura 178±8 cm, peso 81,2±10,1 kg). Los sujetos fueron divididos en los grupos: principiante, intermedio y avanzado, reclutados desde la Federación Checa de Aikido, que es reconocida oficialmente por el centro de aikido en Japón. Como métodos principales, se realizaron mediciones de bioimpedancia y pliegues cutáneos. En el aikido, la composición corporal no juega un rol importante en comparación con otras artes marciales. Los valores promedio fueron similares en comparación a valores de la población no deportista (IMC 25,6±2,7 kg/m, BF 17,18±5,18 %, FFM 65,71±7,69 kg, BSA 1,98±0,15 m2). A pesar de que el aikido tiene efectos positivos en la composición corporal, no tiene un alto impacto. Por lo tanto, los atletas de aikido deberían también obtener beneficios de otros elementos de las artes marciales.
