Abstract
A growing body of sports psychology research has focused on mindfulness-based
training in sports environments. This study examined the effects of a 6-day
online Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement program on mental health, emotion
regulation (reappraisal and suppression), and athletic performance in
student-athletes. Fifty-three participants were randomly assigned to
experimental or waitlist control groups. Pre- and post-test data were collected
using the Sports Mental Health Continuum-Short Form, Emotion Regulation Scale
for Athletes, and a Self-rated Performance Questionnaire. Additionally, eight
participants from the experimental group joined a post-intervention focus group
interview. Results from 2×2 mixed-design ANOVAs revealed significant interaction
effects for the mental health continuum (η
p
2 =0.242)
and reappraisal (η
p
2 =0.240), suggesting improved
emotional regulation and protection against mental health declines. However,
suppression (η
p
2 =0.008), subjective well-being
(η
p
2 =0.055), and self-rated performance
(η
p
2 =0.005) showed no significant improvements.
Qualitative findings highlighted perceived benefits of the intervention, such as
increased mindfulness, better emotional control, and improved focus and
performance. In conclusion, although statistical improvements were limited to
select outcomes, the 6-day online MSPE intervention appears to be a brief,
feasible approach for supporting the psychological functioning of
student-athletes.
Keywords well-being - reappraisal - suppression - sport - RCT
