Effects of Training Load on Heart Rate Variability in Jiu-Jitsu Practitioners
Date of Award
Spring 5-3-2025
Document Type
Non Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Sydney Sanchez
Abstract
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a rapidly growing sport with demonstrated health and fitness benefits. However, excessive training loads may lead to increased fatigue and injury risk, potentially affecting recovery status as measured by heart rate variability (HRV). HRV is a widely used physiological marker for assessing autonomic balance and recovery status, with lower values indicating increased sympathetic activity and reduced parasympathetic tone. While previous research has examined the acute effects of simulated BJJ competition on HRV, little is known about the chronic impact of sustained training loads on recovery in recreational BJJ practitioners.
The proposed study aims to evaluate the effects of weekly training load on HRV in recreational BJJ practitioners. Using a randomized crossover design, 20 male practitioners aged 25-34 will be assigned to high (8-12 hours/week) and low (3-5 hours/week) training load conditions for 3 weeks each, separated by a one-week recovery period. HRV will be measured daily upon waking using a Polar H10 heart rate monitor and analyzed via Kubios HRV Premium software. Training loads will be quantified using training logs, including session duration, heart rate data, and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). It is hypothesized that higher training loads will result in lower HRV, indicating reduced autonomic recovery and increased sympathetic activity. Findings from this study may inform optimal training practices for recreational BJJ practitioners, helping to balance training volume with adequate recovery strategies to minimize injury risk and enhance performance.