Exploration of Student-Athletes’ Mental Toughness Due to Frequency of Synchronous Online Learning

Abstract

This study explores the decrease in mental toughness due to the frequency of seated synchronous online learning among BAPOMI DIY athletes. This study is a combined study of simultaneously embedded models, with quantitative methods as the primary method and qualitative methods as the secondary method. Fifty BAPOMI athletes from various sports statuses as students at DIY were recruited through purposive sampling with the consideration that they were implementing synchronous learning. This research also enrolled six coaches and trainers in BAPOMI DIY. Quantitative data was collected using a 1–5 scale questionnaire, and qualitative data using semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics analyze quantitative data, and qualitative data is analyzed by data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The results of the quantitative study show that the decrease in the mental strength of self-confidence of BAPOMI DIY athletes due to synchronous online learning is included in the high category. In the decline of mental toughness, fatigue is included in the moderate category. Decreased mental toughness is included in the high category. Decreased mental endurance motivation (training/competition) is included in the high category. Decreasing mental strength symptoms of depression are included in the high category. The results of this quantitative data are also in line with the statements of coaches and parents of students who stated that: during online learning, athletes are tired because there are more tasks, the interest in training is reduced compared to offline learning, less focus and less. from enthusiasm, tiredness from sitting in front of the laptop, and reduced concentration due to many lecture assignments. Athletes feel bored, are often late for practice, sometimes get permission to do college assignments, come, often ask for permission, decrease training motivation, decrease fitness, and don't look fit. It can be concluded that synchronous online learning takes too long and sits a lot that is not matched with regular physical activity among athletes, which can cause a decrease in mental toughness from various aspects at a high level. However, there is one aspect that is included in the level category low but still conditional. The role of the coach is becoming more and more critical because they can diligently control the physical and psychological development of the athlete.