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Impact of Mental Imagery Training on Amateur Cycling Athletes : Insights from Self-Assessments and EEG-Based Brain Activity Analysis

Bolks, F.R. (2024) Impact of Mental Imagery Training on Amateur Cycling Athletes : Insights from Self-Assessments and EEG-Based Brain Activity Analysis.

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Abstract:Mental imagery training, or visualization, is a technique widely recognized for enhancing athletic performance by improving motor skills, attention, self-confidence, anxiety reduction, and muscle strength. Despite its broad application across sports, its impact on amateur cyclists, particularly in terms of brain activity, remains underexplored. This study examines the effects of a seven-week mental imagery sprint training program on five male amateur cyclists, focusing on cognitive aspects such as attention, concentration, anxiety, and motor skills. EEG data were collected weekly to monitor neural changes, while pre- and post-program self-assessment questionnaires evaluated perceived improvements. Findings indicate individual improvements in concentration and anxiety, though statistical significance was not achieved due to the small sample size. EEG trends revealed changes in brain activity linked to measured cognitive functions, suggesting potential benefits of mental imagery training on concentration and attention. This research contributes to the understanding of mental imagery in cycling, highlighting EEG as a valuable tool for monitoring its effects. Further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to validate these preliminary findings and refine mental imagery strategies for optimizing athletic performance.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:EEMCS: Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
Programme:Interaction Technology MSc (60030)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/104783
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