ARIHHP research department
The ARIHHP research department comprises three divisions—Kokoro, Waza, and Karada—representing various aspects of human activities, including the Computational Sport Sciences division leverages advanced computational science technology to integrate and analyze information across different fields. We conduct core research in physical education and sports science, applying it to athletes, the general population, and individuals with illnesses. We aim to elucidate principles that will optimize the human performance of both mind and body and to develop foundational technologies based on these principles. By leveraging computational science and technology, we conduct advanced research to enhance physical and mental performance, improve sports coaching and technologies, and advance health and exercise systems. We collaborate closely and exchange information within our internal divisions and with research teams at the Institute of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, including other departments and research centers. This approach enables us to operate effectively by integrating expertise from diverse fields.
Research facilities
ARIHHP makes full use of cutting-edge research facilities to promote innovative next-generation health and sports sciences.
a. Advanced brain analysis facility
- Research objective:
- To elucidate the effect of exercise and sports on brain and mental functions
- Research facilities available at ARIHHP:
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Brain imaging systems (fNIRS, fMRI)
Neurotransmitter measuring system (microdialysis/HPLC)
Hippocampal primary cell culture
Brain metabolism measuring system (metabolic chamber, microwave irradiation and biosensor for metabolites)
Eye mark recorder
Transgenic animal facility
Behavior experiment system (shield room, Morris water maze, open field test and novel objection recognize test)
System for self-monitoring and self-regulation:Two-dimensional Mood Scale
Visual and auditory response measurement system
Eye-tracker(Pupillometry, Eye blink rate)
b. Advanced sport engineering facility
- Research objective:
- To develop sports techniques and goods for performance enhancement
- Research facilities available at ARIHHP:
- Experimental circulating water channel and environmental control tank (visualize water resistance and flow of swimming)
Sport fluid engineering laboratory (the maximum flow velocity of the tunnel is 55 m/s, and the turbulence is 0.1% or less; covers the flow velocity of most sports fluid phenomena)
Optical 3D motion capture system (VICON)
Cluster computers
c. Advanced physical strength training facility
- Research objective:
- To develop sports training and its evaluation methods
- Research facilities available at ARIHHP:
- Optical 3D motion capture system (VICON) and force plates system (measuring motion three dimensionally and measuring kinetics such as torque, power and work of muscles)
Indoor swimming pool (international athletes training in swimming, water polo and artistic swimming, and related research)
d. Cardiovascular & respiratory assessment facility
- Research objective:
- To elucidate adaptation of the cardiorespiratory system to the environment and physical training
- Research facilities available at ARIHHP:
- Environmental chambers (controlling barometric pressure, temperature, humidity, oxygen concentration, etc.)
Cardiorespiratory function analysis system
Blood flow analysis system (measuring blood flow in the brain, the heart and skeletal muscles using ultrasound)
Biochemical analysis system (biochemistry analysis of blood, saliva, urine, etc.)
Vascular Screening System
e. Advanced body composition and energy metabolism assessment facility
- Research objective:
- To elucidate the effect of environment and physical training on body composition, energy metabolism and health
- Research facilities available at ARIHHP:
- Human calorimeter (monitoring human metabolism over 24 hours)
Metabolic chamber for animal (monitoring rats’ and mice’s metabolism when exercising and at rest)
Bone-density measuring equipment (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry)
Big data analysis work station
Skeletal muscle morphological and metabolic properties measuring equipment (MRI, Ultrasound imaging, Electromyograph, Myotonometer, Near Infrared Spectroscopy, etc.)
