College
College of Health Professions
Date of Last Revision
2026-04-28 12:32:03
Major
Exercise Science
Honors Course
EXER 430
Number of Credits
2
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2026
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to explore how heart rate differs between scrimmages and competitions in varsity esports athletes at The University of Akron. This study also examines how heart rate varies across video game titles, as well as before and after both scrimmage and competition play. A scrimmage is defined as a practice game between two collegiate esports teams in which league standings and tournament eligibility are not affected by the outcome. In contrast, a competition is an official match between collegiate esports teams in which results directly influence league standings and tournament qualification.
Physiological stress can be assessed through heart rate responses. When individuals are exposed to a stressor, activation of the sympathetic nervous system occurs, resulting in measurable increases in heart rate. This study investigates these physiological responses in varsity esports athletes during both scrimmage and competition environments. Heart rate data were analyzed across different game titles and competitive conditions to determine patterns of stress response.
Findings from this research aim to provide a clearer understanding of how physiological stress manifests in esports athletes and how competitive context may influence autonomic response. These insights may help inform strategies for performance optimization and stress management within collegiate esports populations.
Research Sponsor
Stephanie Davis-Dieringer
First Reader
Nate Meeker
Second Reader
Jack Tupta
Honors Faculty Advisor
Melissa Smith
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Community Engaged Scholarship
No
Recommended Citation
Bowerman, Jacob W., "Cardiorespiratory Response in eSports Participants in Competition and Scrimmage" (2026). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 2111.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/2111