The effect of reaction time training using visual stimulus software on the performance of elite table tennis players

Table tennis is a high-speed sport that demands rapid visual processing and instantaneous decision-making. Reaction time, comprising simple and choice reaction types, is a critical factor in elite performance. However, traditional training often overlooks cognitive components. This study aimed to examine the effect of reaction time training using visual stimulus software on the performance of elite table tennis players. A quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group was employed. Twenty elite athletes (aged 17–25) were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received visual stimulus-based training three times a week for eight weeks, while the control group followed standard training. Data were collected using simple and choice reaction time tests and rally consistency and smash accuracy tests. Post-intervention results revealed significant improvements in the experimental group. Simple reaction time decreased by 75.6 ms, and choice reaction time decreased by 88.6 ms. Rally consistency increased by 14.8 strokes, and smash accuracy improved by 7.2 points. Statistical analysis showed highly significant differences (p < 0.001) with large effect sizes (Cohen’s d > 2.5) across all variables. These findings demonstrate that visual stimulus software effectively enhances cognitive and motor performance in elite table tennis. The technology simulates competitive conditions and accelerates perceptual-motor integration. Thus, visual stimulus-based training should be considered vital to modern, evidence-based athletic development programs.