Title of Submission
The Effects of Mindfulness and Mental Skills Training on Anxiety in Endurance Athletes
Degree Program
Kinesiology - Behavioral Emphasis, MS
Major Advisor Name
Eric Martin
Type of Submission
Scholarly Poster
Abstract
Introduction: Anxiety effects nearly 20% of the United States population and can have a significant impact on athletic performance. However, athletes can mitigate the effects of performance anxiety through the use of mental skills and mindfulness training.
Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine if a mental training and mindfulness intervention can reduce anxiety and enhance performance in triathletes.
Hypothesis: We hypothesize that mental skills training and mindfulness training will help mitigate the effects of performance anxiety and hence, improve performance in triathletes.
Methods: 20 triathletes will engage in a mental skills and mindfulness training program where we will measure pre- and post-anxiety levels. Anxiety will be measured on the Sport Anxiety Scale, mindfulness will be measured with the Kentucky Inventory of Mindfulness Skills. In addition, triathlete performance will be measured pre-program and in a race within one month following the intervention.
Statistical Analysis: A repeated measures MANOVA will test changes from pre to post intervention.
Expected Outcomes: Following intervention, triathletes will be able to mitigate the effects of performance anxiety with the skills learned over the course of the six week intervention and see improved race performance.