Getting off the Bench: EEG and HRV Differences Between Starters and Nonstarters

Abstract

There is a strong interest in what separates top-level performers from those who have yet to achieve the same level, across all performance domains. Advances in psychophysiology give insight into where these differences may lie in the minds and bodies of athletes. The present study compared gymnasts who were selected for the competitive lineup to those who were considered part of the Division I gymnastics beam squad but did not compete. This study compared their initial baselines, their response to heart rate variability and neurofeedback training, and their posttraining levels. Baseline differences existed for self-perception of consistency and confidence. There were no pre or post differences in heart rate variability measures. Sensorimotor rhythm electroencephalography (EEG) biofeedback training was associated with a decline in busy brain waves for the competitors. The competitors also had a lower ratio of intensity (intensity/high alpha) in both the pre-and post-EEG measures.

The Influence of an Alpha Band Neurofeedback Training in Heart Rate Variability in Athletes

“…As already mentioned, in addition to the fact that there are few studies in the sport/exercise research field that combine NFT and HRV, they only compare the effects of each training protocol without analysing how NFT can influence HRV [ 9 , 37 , 38 , 39 ]. Despite this, Rijken (2016) was careful to mention that although their study was not performed to understand the influence of NFT on HRV, he observed what seemed to be an association between the two variables [ 39 ].…”

“…It has been proved that NFT promotes improvement of cognitive ability, reaction time and visuospatial abilities [ 33 , 34 ], giving individuals a base to create self-regulating strategies [ 35 ]. This, in addition to being essential for stabilization and increase in performance [ 36 ], can be improved through the use of NFT and consequently can lead to a higher performance [ 35 , 37 , 38 , 39 ]. These data are in conformity with previous studies that connect increased values of HRV with ANS activity and better performance [ 40 ], in addition to a reduction in stress both in athletes and in cardiovascular and chronical pain patients [ 36 ].…”

“…Bazanova et al (2013) reported an increase in HRV following 10 NFT sessions aiming to increase the alpha power in a non-athlete male population [41]. Regarding HRV and NFT in sport, there are only four studies carried out, all of which compare HRV training by biofeedback with neurofeedback training [9,[37][38][39], but they all assessed the effects of NFT on the athlete's HRV.…”