PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOPHYSICAL EFFECTS OF PRE-TASK MUSIC TEMPO ON BARBELL SQUAT PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Music use is fast becoming a staple in athletes’ pre-performance routine and shown to have positive effects on performance, but evidence supporting its use as a relaxation strategy in sports is scarce. This study examines the psychological and psychophysical effects of slow and fast pre-task music tempo on a barbell squat. We propose that slow-tempo pre-task music might be more beneficial for barbell squat due to its anxiolytic effects. Competitive powerlifters (N = 24) participated in a counterbalanced within-subjects research design experiment. Participants were exposed to three conditions: slow-tempo pre-task music (76bpm), fast-tempo pre-task music (135bpm), and a no-music control before a barbell squat. Dependent variables were competitive state anxiety (CSAI-2R) and ratings of perceived exertion (RIR/RPE). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed no significant effects of pre-task music tempo on RIR/RPE. Somatic anxiety was significantly reduced in the slow-tempo condition compared to the fast-tempo condition. No significant effects were observed of music tempo on cognitive anxiety or self-confidence. The present findings provide preliminary evidence of the utility of slow-tempo pre-task music in reducing somatic state anxiety before barbell squat performance. Athletes are encouraged to cater to their present needs when selecting music for their pre-performance routine.