Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Assistant Professor, PhD in Motor Behavior, Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Mashhad, Iran
2
Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Mashhad, Iran
3
Laboratory of Intelligent Machines, LUT University, 53850 Lappeenranta, Finland
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between pre-competition mood states and heart rate response during competition in beginner and expert show jumping equestrians. In this field study, 40 riders, including 20 beginners and 20 experts, participated. Participants completed the Profile of Mood States questionnaire prior to competition, and their heart rate was recorded during competitive performance using a wearable sensor. Independent t-test with unequal variance correction and Mann–Whitney U test were used for group comparisons, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to examine relationships between variables. Results showed that the mean heart rate in beginner riders was significantly higher than in expert riders (119/88 vs. 103/78 beats per minute, p < 0/001, effect size = 1/57). In contrast, no significant differences were found between the two groups in the subscales of tension, depression, anger, vigor, fatigue, and confusion, as well as the total mood disturbance score. Furthermore, none of the pre-competition mood subscales showed significant correlations with heart rate during competition. Findings indicate that although skill level is associated with significant differences in physiological responses, pre-competition mood states alone are not sufficient to predict heart rate changes under competitive conditions. These results highlight the importance of integrating psychological and physiological measures for a more comprehensive understanding of athletic performance.
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