Influence of fitness and physical activity on cardiovascular reactivity to musical performance

Objective: The current study examines the relationships between physical activity and fitness and reactivity to a musical performance stressor (MPS). Numerous studies suggest that being fitter and more physically active has a beneficial effect on individuals' cardiovascular responses to laboratory-based mental challenges. The results are equivocal regarding the transfer of such benefits to real world contexts such as musical performance. Participants: Forty six advanced music students completed this assessment. Method: All participants completed a 20-min pre-performance assessment of heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV) and blood pressure. Participants also completed baseline measures and a sub-maximal fitness assessment on a separate day. Results: A positive association between fitness and HR pre-MPS was found. Fitness was also positively associated with root mean square SD RR-{interval} before the MPS. Higher fitness was related to lower state anxiety post-MPS. Conclusions: Implications of the findings are discussed in relation to classical musicians' day-to-day work and performance.