Effect of Karate on Neurocognitive Physiology: A Focused Review.

Abstract

The literature survey shows improvement in cognitive performance following acute bouts of physical exercise and chronic exercise patterns. However, neurocognitive growth through karate, a moderate intensity physical activity, is very limited. The synchronization of the nervous and endocrine system can be best reflected through this martial art form through neurogenesis and cognitive potentiation. Numerous outstanding reviews have summarized these findings for martial arts like judo and taekwondo. This review tries to orchestrate the efficiency of karate in neurocognition. The specific aim of this review paper is to magnify the efficiency of karate training in cognitive functions, through its response to neurochemical transmissions and electrophysiological signaling. Numerous related literature were evaluated, screened, and selected using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses eligibility criteria. All appropriate publications that satisfied the primary objective of the study were scientifically and schematically presented in this review paper. The psychophysiological effect of karate training and their relation with brain functions have been elaborated. This review compiles the few studies established on the cognitive benefits of karate through the electrical stimuli and neurochemical release. Karate may be effective in advancement of particular brain functions and neurocognitive actions through a life time. Electrophysiological studies have unraveled improved neural efficiency, stress tolerance, working and muscle memory but need further exploration. Similarly, to better understand the effects of karate on neurochemical secretions, further research involvement is required.