Mindfulness-Based Peak Performance, Endurance Performance Under Pressure, Performance-relevant Mental Attributes

The primary aim of this study is to conduct a well-designed trial to investigate the effect of an MBI program entitled Mindfulness-based Peak Performance (MBPP) on endurance performance under pressure from an interdisciplinary approach of sport psychology, sports training, and cognitive neuroscience. The secondary aim is to examine the effect of MBPP program on performance-relevant mental attributes in behavioral and neurocognitive assessments.The present study hypothesizes that the MBPP and self-talk groups will improve performance under pressure, but MBPP is expected to show greater improvement than ST. Additionally, we expect the MBPP will improve the relevant mental attributes.

Inclusion Criteria:Aged between 18 and 30 yearsNormal or corrected-to-normal 20/20 visionNo red-green color blindnessAble to speak and read ChinesePhysical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) score = 0With one of the designated sport proficiencies (i.e., middle-long running, marathon, triathlon)No previous major experience in mindfulness-related training (e.g., meditation or Tai Chi)Provide informed consentExclusion Criteria:Diagnosed or self-reported cognitive problemsThe diagnosed or self-reported physical disease (e.g., untreated hypertension and chronic heart disease, stroke, brain tumor, musculoskeletal disorders, other exercise contradictions)Diagnosed or self-reported major psychiatric illness (e.g., major depression, schizophrenia)History of alcohol or drug abuseUnwillingness to be randomized to one of the three groupsCurrently participating in another study trial