This randomized double-blind controlled study aimed to investigate the effects of a standardized Kaempferia parviflora (KP) extract on the physical fitness and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters in adolescent sport school students. 194 male students were recruited and randomized into two groups (n = 97), matched by age and sports. The KP-treated group received KP extract capsules at a dose of 360 mg/day and the control group received placebo capsules, continuously for 12 weeks. Physical fitness performance and HRV parameters were monitored with blood biochemical analysis for product safety. KP extract significantly increased the right-hand grip strength, the back-leg strength and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) and decreased the time used for 50-meter sprint test without changing the sit-and-reach test and the 40 yard technical test. For HRV parameters, KP extract significantly increased standard deviation of normal to normal intervals (SDNN), square root of the mean of square of successive normal to normal interval differences (RMSSD) and high frequency (HF) norm, without changing low frequency (LF) norm and LF/HF ratio. The increase in stress resistance and decrease in stress index were found in the KP-treated group, without changing the autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity and balance. Blood biochemical analysis showed normal values of all participants. This data indicates the safety and positive effects of KP on muscle strength, endurance and speed, but not on the flexibility and agility. The modulatory effects of KP extract on HRV parameters suggest its anti-stress effects and would encourage the application in a sport training and exercise.
Keywords: Kaempferia parviflora; anti-stress; heart rate variability; physical fitness; pressure pain threshold; sport supplement.