Getting off the Bench: EEG and HRV Differences Between Starters and Nonstarters
There is a strong interest in what separates top-level performers from those who have yet to achieve the same level, across all performance domains. Advances in psychophysiology give insight into where these differences may lie in the minds and bodies of athletes. The present study compared gymnasts who were selected for the competitive lineup to those who were considered part of the Division I gymnastics beam squad but did not compete. This study compared their initial baselines, their response to heart rate variability and neurofeedback training, and their posttraining levels. Baseline differences existed for self-perception of consistency and confidence. There were no pre or post differences in heart rate variability measures. Sensorimotor rhythm electroencephalography (EEG) biofeedback training was associated with a decline in busy brain waves for the competitors. The competitors also had a lower ratio of intensity (intensity/high alpha) in both the pre- and post-EEG measures.
Note the gymnast standing in the bottom right corner. Later training sessions of gymnasts mirrored the competitor preparing in the same place as she would be prior to performing on the balance beam.
The electroencephalography (EEG) ratios between competitors (n = 6) and bench (n = 5) gymnasts in the preassessments and postassessments are shown for the three ratios (Thompson & Thompson, 2006). The intensity/high alpha ratio for the competitors was significantly lower than the bench at both pre- and postassessment.
The amounts of high alpha (11–12 Hz) and intensity (19–22 Hz) are shown for competitors and bench in the pre- and postassessment. Although not significantly different, the trend of the pattern suggests that competitors may have pre-existing states of higher alpha, which is associated with neural efficiency.
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