Effects of mindfulness meditation training on tennis serves accuracy and self-confidence

• Main Author: Kor, Vivian Wei Ting
• Other Authors: Chian Lit Khoon
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2019
• Subjects: DRNTU::Science::General
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/76816
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This study examined the effects of mindfulness intervention with tennis players on service accuracy performance and self-confidence. A mindfulness meditation training (MMT) intervention was self-administered by participants in the experimental group and effects were observed before and after the intervention. The first purpose was to find out if MMT can improve tennis service accuracy performance. The second purpose was to find out if MMT would increase self-confidence levels. Thirty-four tennis players with a minimal of two years playing experience were recruited. Seventeen tennis players were randomly assigned into two groups: a control (C) group and an experimental (E) group subjected to a two-week self-administered MMT intervention. Results of the two groups were compared in service accuracy performance, mindfulness states and self-confidence before and after the MMT. Dependent Paired T-test results indicated the experimental group increased in their level of mindfulness as measured by The Mindful Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS), and reflected an increase in service accuracy performance of the “T” zone. Likewise, significantly lower scores of mindfulness were reported by the control group. No significant improvements were observed in their state self-confidence as measured by the State Sport Confidence Inventory (SSCI). Informal interviews gathered from participants in the experimental group found that most of them felt ‘at peace’ and were more aware of their thoughts during performance. Results suggest that MMT may be useful to achieve greater mindfulness states, and service accuracy performance. Further studies may expand on this current study by employing a longer intervention practice duration. Keywords: tennis, mindfulness, meditation, service, accuracy, precision, self-confidence