The Impact of Pressure Training on the Performance of Semi-Professional Female Rugby League Players
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Background: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of pressure training on the performance of semi-professional female rugby league athletes. Methods: Using a within-subjects design, 16 female athletes (19.9 ± 3.4 years) performed a passing accuracy task under three conditions; (1) a control condition; (2) a physiological fatigue condition; and (3) a threat of consequence condition. Passing performance, perceived pressure, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and self-confidence were assessed. Results: A significant main effect of conditions was found for rate of perceived exertion (p < 0.001), self-confidence (p < 0.028), and perceived pressure (p = 0.011). There was no main effect of condition on passing performance. Post hoc comparisons revealed that RPE was significantly higher in the physiological fatigue condition when compared to the control (p = 0.009) and threat of consequence conditions (p < 0.001). Perceived pressure was significantly higher in the threat of consequence condition compared to the control condition (p = 0.037). Conclusions: The main findings of this study are that (1) passing performance was not impacted by pressure training conditions, and (2) threats of consequences are an effective manipulation to generate pressure in female semi-professional rugby league players. These results offer nuanced insights into the impact of pressure generation in training environments for female semi-professional rugby league athletes.
Source: Behavioral Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/bs14090856
Authors: Michele Lastella, Sharni Upton, Dean J. Miller
Institution: Central Queensland University
Language: English
Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,501
Funder: Central Queensland University
OpenAlex ID: W4402842690