Mental Training Interventions and Pre-Match Preparation Effectiveness Among Badminton Athletes in a Sports Institute in Wuhan, China

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of mental training interventions on pre-match preparation among badminton athletes at a sports institute in Wuhan, China. Utilizing a descriptive-comparative-correlational research design, the study assessed 153 athletes across eight mental training dimensions: goal setting, focus and concentration, strength and anxiety management, confidence and motivation, emotional regulation, communication and team dynamics, recovery and mental fatigue, and implementation and consistency. Results revealed an overall composite mean of 3.08, indicating that athletes perceive mental training interventions as "Effective" and "True of Our Training." The highest-rated dimension was confidence and motivation (mean=3.48), while strength and anxiety management received the lowest rating (mean=2.64). Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in assessments based on age, but significant variation was found in physical readiness perceptions between freshmen and sophomores. The findings demonstrate that while the program successfully builds psychological foundations, it requires enhanced focus on practical anxiety management strategies. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing mental training protocols in competitive badminton.