Author(s): KUSUMP, S., PHILUEK, P., Institution: SPORTS AUTHORITY OF THAILAND, Country: THAILAND, Abstract-ID: 263

INTRODUCTION:
Elite wheelchair table tennis performance requires rapid information processing, sustained attention, and emotional regulation under competitive pressure. Although physical training is well established, structured programs integrating cognitive-motor training and mindfulness remain limited in para-sport. This study aimed to develop and psychometrically validate an Integrated Cognitive-Motor and Mindfulness Training Program and to examine its effectiveness using cognitive and neurophysiological markers.
 
METHODS:
Content validity of the program was assessed by five experts, yielding an Item–Objective Congruence (IOC) range of 0.80–1.00. A randomized crossover design was conducted with provincial and national wheelchair table tennis athletes. Assessments were performed at Baseline (W1), Post-intervention (W2), and Follow-up (W3). Outcome measures included Reaction Time (RT), EEG-derived indices of focus and relaxation, and Heart Rate Variability (HRV). Statistical analyses included Cronbach’s alpha for internal consistency, Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) for test–retest reliability, paired t-tests, and Partial Eta Squared (ηp²) for effect size estimation.
 
RESULTS:
The program demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.86) and excellent test–retest reliability for EEG and HRV measures (ICC = 0.89; 95% CI [0.78, 0.94]). Post-intervention results showed a significant reduction in reaction time and improvement in cognitive performance (t = −6.16, p < 0.001), with a large effect size (ηp² = 0.66). Neurophysiological findings revealed patterns consistent with optimal psychophysiological functioning, including increased alpha power (Relaxation) and task-relevant beta modulation (focused attention), which were maintained at follow-up.
 
CONCLUSION:
The integrated cognitive-motor and mindfulness program is a valid and reliable intervention for enhancing neurocognitive efficiency in wheelchair table tennis athletes. The large effect size supports its practical relevance and highlights the value of combining mindfulness with cognitive-motor training as a standardized mental preparation framework in para-sport.