Author(s): JOHN, J.J.1, SOH, Y.Y.1, Institution: TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY, Country: MALAYSIA, Abstract-ID: 979

Introduction
This study explores how Self-talk (ST) and Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) impact reaction time in volleyball players. While ST and PMR are known to reduce stress individually, their comparative effects on reaction time are underexplored. By employing these strategies as interventions, this research offers insights into their effectiveness for enhancing athletic performance. Findings provide practical implications for coaches and athletes aiming to optimize reaction time through psychological techniques.
Methods
In this study, 24 experienced male university volleyball players (aged 18-24) with a minimum of 5 years of training were randomly assigned to control (CG) (n=8), Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) (n=8), and Self-talk (n=8) groups. Over 6 weeks, experimental groups received either Self-talk or 15-minute PMR sessions, while controls had no intervention. Reaction time was measured using the SMARTfit Inc (Tract the Target system), and statistical analyses included one-way ANOVA and paired t-tests (p < 0.05).
Results
The findings indicated that there was a significant improvement in reaction time in both the PMR group (p = 0.02) and ST group (p = 0.00) with ST showing the most improvement of 13% (Pre: 0.43±0.05) to Post: 0.38±0.03) compared to PMR with 7.1% (Pre: 0.40±0.006) to Post: 0.4±0.4) and control only 1.7%. There was a significant difference between groups in the post-test, determined by One-way ANOVA, (F (2,21) = 3.90, p = 0.36). Tukey post hoc revealed that differences were between CG and ST (p = 0.029).
Discussion
The discussion underscores the efficacy of both Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) and Self-talk training in enhancing reaction time by mitigating anxiety levels during testing. Notably, the Self-talk group demonstrates superior improvement, potentially attributed to its unique capacity to sharpen focus and concentration by mitigating distracting thoughts. This aligns with Self-talks recognized role in managing sport-related anxiety, countering intrusive thoughts that impede performance. Conversely, PMR operates on the premise that muscle tension, induced by anxiety-provoking thoughts, can be alleviated through relaxation techniques. Despite both approaches yielding positive results, Self-talk emerges as the more potent strategy, suggesting its promise as a cognitive enhancement tool for volleyball players. Harnessing Self-talk techniques could thus offer a promising avenue for enhancing sports performance by enhancing cognitive abilities and alleviating anxiety-related interruptions.