As part of our research series, we're showcasing some of the research projects produced by both UCFB students and staff members.
For her third-year research project, BSc (Hons) Sports Psychology graduate Isabel Woods investigated whether the motivational properties of a piece of music had an effect on pre-performance mood and 40-yard sprint times in American footballers in training.
Following the project, Isabel drew the following conclusion:
- Positive mood has been shown to interact with the music conditions.
- Listening to no music prior to sprinting produces faster sprint times.
- When a positive pre-sprint mood is accompanied with non-motivational music, slower sprint times are produced.
- The use of synchronous, motivational music was not preferable.
- The music type alone cannot influence sprint scores. Pre-sprint mood has no significant influence on sprint performance.
- Highlights individual preference when listening to music in training.
- Demonstrates a new knowledge that can help when choosing methods in training to aid sport performance.
