Physical and Mental Changes among High School Students in Fukushima, a Disaster-stricken Area, Following Continuous Sports Lessons Taught by International and Olympic Level Athletes

Abstract

Background: Research on the effects of disaster-relief by professional athletes has yet to be conducted. Methods:We investigated the impact of continuous sports lessons, by professional athletes, on the mental and physical health of the participants and the athletes. The participants were high school students of Soma High School. Lessons started in June 2011; as of August 2012, seven lessons have been held. During the four lessons between September and December 2011, we collected qualitative and quantitative data by recording each student's event records and distributing a free response questionnaire to students and athletes. Results: Participants included 45 students and 16 athletes. All the students established new event records. Numerical evaluation by students on perceived physical competence, selfefficacy, and perception of organizational changes failed to show any significant changes, while subjective evaluation by students identified three important categories: "emotional response", "motivation", and "content of instruction". Both students and athletes developed their interpersonal relationships from distant to close, and perceived enhancements in their psychological state during study periods. Conclusions: A trusting relationship was established between students and athletes through continuous sports lessons held in disaster stricken regions, contributing to fruitful outcomes for both students and athletes.