Effect of Mindful Sports Performance Enhancement in College Athletes for Reducing Sports-Caused Anxiety and Improving Self-Awareness: A Critically Appraised Topic

Mindful Sports Performance Enhancement (MSPE) training is a relatively new concept, which focuses on helping athletes manage a variety of stressors experienced throughout a season, including performing well academically, staying fit, having a productive season in their sport, and maintaining a healthy social life. A need for a critical appraisal is needed to assess the effectiveness of the intervention. Two cohort studies and one randomized control trial were included in the study and assessed using STROBE and PEDro Scale. Key results show, all 3 studies identified participants experiencing benefits after MSPE with aspects of awareness, acceptance, and emotion regulation. Furthermore, student-athletes who attended either all the sessions or more sessions after the 6-week course showed greater satisfaction with mental and physical health. Overall, there is level “B” evidence to support effectiveness of MSPE for college athletes in reducing sport anxiety and improving their overall well-being.