EFFECT OF YOGIC PRACTICE ON ANXIETY OF JUDOKAS

Abstract

Context: The contribution of physical and psychological factors to the performance of
sportsperson is vital and should not be overlooked. Achieving the highest level of
performance in sports demands a cohesive integration of these two factors. Athletic
performance is increasingly influenced by psychological factors rather than solely relying
on the athlete's physiological health. It has become evident that various mental aspects
play a significant role in enhancing physical capabilities. The focus of sport psychology is
primarily on enhancing performance and ensuring the well-being of athletes.
Aim: The study was carried out to analyse the Effect of Yogic Practice on Anxiety of
Judokas.
Methodology: A research study was conducted with 30 female Judokas from the Mayai
Lambi Judo Academy located in Mayang Imphal, Manipur, all of whom had participated
in national competitions. The age range of the participants was between 16 and 19 years.
They were divided into two equal groups of 15. Group A, identified as the Experimental
Group, participated in yoga training, while Group B, the control group, did not receive any
training. The experimental group practiced yoga five days a week, with one hour of
sessions in the morning, while the control group continued with their standard exercise
regimen for the same duration. The assessment of anxiety was conducted at two points:
before (Pre-test) and after (Post-test) the experimental period, employing the Sports
Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) developed by Rainer Martens.
Results: Statistical evaluation of the data was performed using a t-test, with a significance
level fixed at 0.05. The results of this study indicated that the eight weeks of yogic practice
had a significant influence on the anxiety of Judokas in the experimental group (E.G.)
compared to those in the control group (C.G.). The pre-test outcomes for both the
experimental and control groups showed no significant differences; in contrast, a
significant difference was noted between the two groups in the post-test.
Conclusion: It is concluded that engaging in yoga led to a reduction in anxiety among
Judokas. Notably, after eight weeks of consistent yoga practice, judokas experienced a
significant reduction in their anxiety.