Effect of Mental Imagery Skill Training Program on Soccer Passing and Control Skills in Collegiate-Level Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Mental imagery is used to re-create a sporting scenario in the mind to enhance sporting technique and performance. Less research has been done on internal and external imagery both in combination. The aim of this study was to see the effect of mental imagery in enhancing soccer passing and control skills in male collegiate-level players. The study evaluated 60 male collegiate soccer athletes, allocated into imagery and control groups. Both the groups were tested for their passing and control skills using Loughborough soccer passing test (LSPT) and McDonald Soccer skill test, followed by mental imagery intervention for a period of 3 weeks for the experimental group. Post-intervention LSPT and McDonald soccer test scores were taken again for both the groups. Within group statistical analysis of data was done using Wilcoxon signed rank test for of the two means pre- and post-intervention and between groups using Mann-Whitney U test. Results showed that there was a notable improvement in the LSPT and McDonald soccer test score measured pre and post imagery. Mental imagery can be a beneficial technique in improving skill-specific training in collegiate-level athletes, for maintaining focus on skillsets, strength and power post-injury and surgery, during detraining and return to sport.