A model of sporting performance constructed from autonomic nervous system responses.

Abstract

Four autonomic nervous system (ANS) variables: skin potential and resistance, skin blood flow and temperature - plus instantaneous heart rate and respiratory frequency - were simultaneously recorded during sporting competitions. The performances of 15 marksmen and 7 archers were analysed by comparing the variations in the six parameters during a concentration phase prior to shooting and during the shooting (or active) phase proper. The results of the performances distinguished two groups of sportsmen: firstly, the best shots and secondly, the worst shots. Comparison of the autonomic responses between the groups showed statistically significant correlations among the ANS variables. This made possible a relationship between performance characteristics and a percepto-effector factor to be defined. More precisely, this factor was defined as the number of correlations of the measured variables in the two phases, concentration and shooting. A positive relationship was demonstrated--the higher the factor, the better the performance. In addition, the stability of the factor was greater within the best marksmen and archers group. A model of the temporal change of the percepto-effector factor in both groups was given in three dimensions. This modelling of performance characteristics gave a visual indication of the differences between best/worst performances.