Effects of psychological arousal and relaxation on muscle performance, activation, and heart rate variability during maximal muscle strength and precision tasks

Author

Allison Ann Brown, Mississippi State UniversityFollow

Advisor

Gillen, Zachary

Committee Member

Vickers, Brad

Committee Member

Smith, JohnEric

Date of Degree

8-7-2025

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Kinesiology (Exercise Physiology)

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Education

Department

Department of Kinesiology

Abstract

Psychological arousal plays a vital role in athletic performance, with the optimal point of arousal and performance level varying by task complexity. A common manipulator of arousal is music, which can produce multiple physiological effects. This study investigated whether unfamiliar arousing or relaxing music influences heart rate variability, muscle activation, maximal muscle strength, and muscle precision. Theoretically, if participants are found to have differing muscle performance responses as a result of differing music selections, this would further support the notion that the optimal point of arousal and performance is dependent upon the complexity of the task at hand. Thus, coaches and exercise professionals might consider adjusting athletes’ environments to produce a psychological arousal level appropriate for the type of task demanded.

Recommended Citation

Brown, Allison Ann, "Effects of psychological arousal and relaxation on muscle performance, activation, and heart rate variability during maximal muscle strength and precision tasks" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 6619.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/6619