Characteristics of energy metabolism and stress load in elite MOBA E-sports athletes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

E-sports gained growing recognition as a competitive pursuit with quantifiable physiological demands. While previous studies have shown that cognitive stress modulates energy metabolism and autonomic nervous system regulation, phase-specific physiological responses during gameplay remain poorly understood.

Methods

20 elite League of Legends players (rank ≥ Platinum) were enrolled. Their cardiopulmonary function and autonomic nervous system activity were monitored during rest and across three distinct match phases (early-, mid-, and late-game). Energy metabolism parameters were measured using a portable cardiopulmonary testing system, and heart rate variability indices were assessed with a chest-worn monitor.

Results

Compared with the resting state, the earl

SUBMITTER: Li Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12920208 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature