Biofeedback optimal performance training can improve quality of life for athletes

Nov 23 2011

Biofeedback optimal performance training can benefit not only the sports performance, but also the overall life functioning of an athlete. Individual athletes, teams, and coaches can gain from a multidisciplinary approach of cognitive and behavioral psychology, biofeedback, and neurofeedback. The U.S. Air Force Academy Peak Performance Center offers student-athletes this additional focus on their sports performance and quality of life.

A composite case study appears in the fall 2011 issue of the journal Biofeedback. It overviews the compilation of optimal performance services at the Air Force Academy with about 50 athletes over three years.

Many of these athletes reported increasing consistency in their performance, significantly reducing race times or increasing scores—depending on the sport—and winning competitions they previously thought they were unlikely to win. Recorded results confirm these findings.

Optimal performance services applied cognitive therapy and biofeedback techniques to 18- to 24-year-old athletes. Physically, the athlete in this case study underwent training to learn to control her heart rate variability and respiration and use these to her advantage. These techniques increased her energy level, allowed her to get to sleep more quickly, and found her more relaxed about sports competitions and academic tests as well.

The brain is trained by developing mental flexibility through neurofeedback. One learns to keep focus—"stay in the zone"—and quickly resolve distractions. Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) shows brain activity at 19 sites, finding patterns of coherence and symmetry. The QEEG assessment provides directions for applying Neurofeedback training.

Cognitive therapy also helps focus the mind by exploring individual and team feelings and attitudes about the athletic performance and life in general. In the composite study, the athlete uncovered feelings of separation from her family. Her athletic success had brought her to the college level, taking her away from a close home and family relationship.

Self-perception, social relationships, attitudes about competing, and perceptions about how others view you are part of the dynamics that optimal performance services address. Physical attributes can be better applied toward the goal of peak performance. And the success and relaxation found in improved focus when on the competitive field translates into a happier, healthier life.