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Cheng MY, Yu CL, An X, Wang L, Tsai CL, Qi F, Wang KP. Evaluating EEG neurofeedback in sport psychology: a systematic review of RCT studies for insights into mechanisms and performance improvement. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1331997. [PMID: 39156814 PMCID: PMC11328324 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1331997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Electroencephalographic Neurofeedback Training (EEG NFT) aims to improve sport performance by teaching athletes to control their mental states, leading to better cognitive, emotional, and physical outcomes. The psychomotor efficiency hypothesis suggests that optimizing brain function could enhance athletic ability, indicating the potential of EEG NFT. However, evidence for EEG-NFT's ability to alter critical brain activity patterns, such as sensorimotor rhythm and frontal midline theta-key for concentration and relaxation-is not fully established. Current research lacks standardized methods and comprehensive studies. This shortfall is due to inconsistent EEG target selection and insufficient focus on coherence in training. This review aims to provide empirical support for EEG target selection, conduct detailed control analyses, and examine the specificity of electrodes and frequencies to relation to the psychomotor efficiency hypothesis. Following the PRISMA method, 2,869 empirical studies were identified from PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, and PsycINFO. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria: (i) proficient skill levels; (ii) use of EEG; (iii) neurofeedback training (NFT); (iv) motor performance metrics (reaction time, precision, dexterity, balance); (v) control group for NFT comparison; (vi) peer-reviewed English-language publication; and (vii) randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. Studies indicate that NFT can enhance sports performance, including improvements in shooting accuracy, golf putting, and overall motor skills, as supported by the psychomotor efficiency hypothesis. EEG NFT demonstrates potential in enhancing sports performance by optimizing performers' mental states and psychomotor efficiency. However, the current body of research is hampered by inconsistent methodologies and a lack of standardized EEG target selection. To strengthen the empirical evidence supporting EEG NFT, future studies need to focus on standardizing target selection, employing rigorous control analyses, and investigating underexplored EEG markers. These steps are vital to bolster the evidence for EEG NFT and enhance its effectiveness in boosting sport performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Yang Cheng
- School of Psychology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Chien-Lin Yu
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Xin An
- School of Psychology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Letong Wang
- School of Psychology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Chi-Lun Tsai
- Department of Sport Psychology, Faculty of Sport Science, Universität Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Fengxue Qi
- Sports, Exercise and Brain Sciences Laboratory, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Kuo-Pin Wang
- Center for Cognitive Interaction Technology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
- Neurocognition and Action - Biomechanics Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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Beik M, Taheri H, Kakhki AS, Ghoshuni M, Fazeli D. Contextual Interference Effects on Approach Motivation When Learning Timing Tasks: A Frontal Electroencephalography (EEG) Alpha Asymmetry Study in Older Adults. Percept Mot Skills 2022; 129:1321-1341. [PMID: 35511777 DOI: 10.1177/00315125221098325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of contextual interference on motivational regulation, as measured by EEG (frontal alpha asymmetry), in older adults. Participants practiced a sequenced timing task in random, algorithmic, or blocked schedules in both similar and dissimilar task difficulty conditions, with task difficulty defined by absolute timing goals (in ms) that were either close to each other (1350, 1500, 1650) or far from each other (1050, 1500, 1950), respectively. We assessed older participants' timing accuracy in these conditions, during acquisition and delayed retention learning, using the frontal alpha asymmetry index, recorded during practice, to measure motivation. On the accuracy measure in delayed retention, the algorithm practice schedule (in both similar and dissimilar conditions) was associated with significantly more accurate performance than random and blocked practice schedules. Also during delayed retention and in both task difficulty conditions, performance was better with a random schedule than a blocked schedule. On the EEG motivational measure, frontal alpha asymmetry was more often higher as practice progressed in the algorithm practice condition than in other practice conditions. However, in the random practice schedule, in late, versus early, acquisition, motivational regulation was higher. The blocked groups showed decreased motivation as practice progressed. We interpreted these findings to be in accordance with the challenge point framework and with OPTIMAL motor learning theory and valence hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meysam Beik
- Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Sport Sciences, 48440Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Taheri
- Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Sport Sciences, 48440Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Saberi Kakhki
- Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Sport Sciences, 48440Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Ghoshuni
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Mashhad Branch, 125639Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Davoud Fazeli
- Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Education and Psychology, 37551Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
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Effects of Acute Stress on Psychophysiology in Armed Tactical Occupations: A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031802. [PMID: 35162825 PMCID: PMC8834678 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The ability to perform under extreme pressure is one of the most sought-after qualities in both sports and tactical (military, law enforcement, fire, and rescue, etc.) occupations. While tactical performance relies on both physical and mental capabilities to achieve a desired outcome, it is often hampered by the stressful environments in which these personnel work. The acute stress experienced by tactical personnel can interfere with occupational performance, impacting both physical execution of tasks and decision-making. This narrative review discusses the implications of acute stress on the psychophysiology and physical performance of personnel serving in armed tactical occupations.
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Wang KP, Frank C, Tsai YY, Lin KH, Chen TT, Cheng MY, Huang CJ, Hung TM, Schack T. Superior Performance in Skilled Golfers Characterized by Dynamic Neuromotor Processes Related to Attentional Focus. Front Psychol 2021; 12:633228. [PMID: 33664700 PMCID: PMC7921727 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.633228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The meshed control theory assumes that cognitive control and automatic processes work together in the natural attention of experts for superior performance. However, the methods adopted by previous studies limit their capacity to provide in-depth information on the neuromotor processes. This experiment tested the theory with an alternative approach. Twelve skilled golfers were recruited to perform a putting task under three conditions: (1) normal condition, with no focus instruction (NC), (2) external focus of attention condition (EC), and (3) internal focus of attention condition (IC). Four blocks of 10 putts each were performed under each condition. The putting success rate and accuracy were measured and electroencephalographies (EEGs) were recorded. The behavioral results showed that the NC produced a higher putting success rate and accuracy than the EC and IC. The EEG data showed that the skilled golfers' attentional processes in the NC initially resembled those in the EC and then moved toward those in the IC just before putting. This indicates a switch from more automatic processes to cognitive control processes while preparing to putt. The findings offer support for the meshed control theory and indicate the dynamic nature of neuromotor processes for the superior performance of athletes in challenging situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Pin Wang
- Center for Cognitive Interaction Technology (CITEC), Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
- Neurocognition and Action – Biomechanics Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Cornelia Frank
- Sports and Movement Group, Department of Sports and Movement Sciences, School of Educational and Cultural Studies, University of Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Yen-yu Tsai
- Department of Physical Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kao-Hung Lin
- Department of Physical Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Ting Chen
- Department of Physical Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yang Cheng
- School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Chung-Ju Huang
- Graduate Institute of Sport Pedagogy, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Min Hung
- Department of Physical Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute for Research Excellence in Learning Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Thomas Schack
- Center for Cognitive Interaction Technology (CITEC), Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
- Neurocognition and Action – Biomechanics Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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Comparison of Biofeedback and Combined Interventions on Athlete's Performance. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback 2021; 46:227-234. [PMID: 33386459 DOI: 10.1007/s10484-020-09498-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was the comparison of neurofeedback and biofeedback as a combination, against biofeedback intervention alone on athletic performance. 45 novice basketball players were allocated into three groups and assigned accordingly, two experimental and one control group. The experimental group 1 received 24 biofeedback sessions only, experimental group 2 received 24 biofeedback and neurofeedback sessions combined, whereas the control group didn't receive any form of intervention. Athletic performance scales were used before and after each intervention and multivariate analysis of covariance was used to compare the two groups. Results showed that in comparison to the control group, the athletic performance scales scores in both experimental groups were significantly increased. Furthermore, in experimental group 2 (combined method), we noticed a significantly greater improvement in performance levels than experimental group 1. We concluded that neurofeedback and biofeedback interventions combined, can be used as an effective method to enhance athletic performance.
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KOBORI O, SAWAMIYA Y, YOSHINAGA N, C. ROWE A, L. WILKINSON L. INVESTIGATION OF ATTACHMENT ORIENTATION, AND AFFECT REGULATION: USE OF A NOVEL AFFECT REGULATION MAPPING TOOL IN JAPANESE ATHLETES. PSYCHOLOGIA 2020. [DOI: 10.2117/psysoc.2020-b005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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