Sports Conditioning
Ochi Laboratory
Through field experience, scientific trials, and social contribution,
we explore "conditioning" including training and recovery
to maximize human performance
from physical, mental, and technical perspectives
Our Mission
The Sports Conditioning Ochi Laboratory is affiliated with the Department of Health and Sports Science,
Faculty of Health Sciences at Niigata University of Health and Welfare,
with the vision of "Sports Science through Experience, Trials, and Contribution."
Our students gain experience in real-world settings, conduct evidence-based trials,
and contribute their findings to athletes and the general public,
striving to practice true sports science.
Research Characteristics
Body
Physical
Evaluating training stress in female athletes using hair cortisol. Scientifically validating the effects of foam rolling on lactate clearance after high-intensity exercise to propose optimal recovery methods.
Mind
Mental
Visualizing long-term chronic stress and mental health through hair cortisol and oxytocin measurement. Developing new technologies to predict arousal states from facial expression changes during exercise.
Technique
Technical
Demonstrating the effects of VR exercise on working memory and positive mood. Clarifying the relationship between pitch selection ability and spatial executive function in baseball, using fNIRS/fMRI to elucidate the connection between skill improvement and cognitive function at the brain level.
Laboratory Activities
Introducing our daily laboratory life including research, experiments, and events
Recent Activities
【Preprint】Preprint Published on Chronic Stress Assessment Using Hair Hormones and Heart Rate Variability
Dr. Genta Ochi's research group is conducting research combining heart rate variability and hair hormones (cortisol and oxytocin) as biomarkers to assess chronic stress and mental health in athletes. We have recently published our research findings as a preprint.
【Paper Published】VR Technology Scientifically Elucidates Baseball 'Pitch Selection Ability'
Lecturer Genta Ochi and Kodai Kato (2023 graduate) developed a new method to scientifically evaluate baseball batters' pitch selection ability (the ability to distinguish strikes from balls) and demonstrated that pitch selection ability is closely related to actual batting performance.
【Paper Published】Research Introduction in 'Chiiki Caring' November 2025 Issue (Released October 14)
Genta Ochi's research 'Utility of Exergaming Using Virtual Reality Environments to Enhance Cognitive Function' will be published in the medical and welfare journal 'Chiiki Caring' November 2025 issue.
【Book Published】Research Findings Published in International Academic Book Edited by Professor Emeritus Soya of University of Tsukuba
The international academic book '**Exercise Brain Stimulation for Cognitive Function and Mental Health**' was published by Springer Nature.
【Conference Presentation】Lab Members Presented at the Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine Conference!
Three laboratory members presented their research findings at the Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine Conference held in September 2025.