Mind–body effects of mindfulness-based training in athletes: a preliminary randomized controlled trial

Introduction: Previous research has shown that mindfulness practice is associated with a range of indicators related to better mental and cognitive health. Emerging evidence also supports benefits for physical health, although these findings are not yet comprehensive. Consequently, this practice is attracting increasing interest in sports, despite the current lack of extensive research and limited application in this context. Methods: This study analyzed the effects of an 8-week mindfulness-based training in athletes on several psychological and physiological variables that may influence sports performance. Forty-six athletes were recruited and randomly assigned to a study group, which joined the mindfulness-based training, or a waitlist control group. Levels of interoceptive awareness, cognitive inhibition, heart rate variability (HRV), pulmonary function, and muscle flexibility were assessed before (T0) and after (T1) the treatment. Results: Results showed statistically significant improvements in interoceptive awareness and SDNN parameter of HRV in the study group compared to the control group following the treatment. Discussion: These preliminary results partially support the holistic health benefits of mindfulness and encourage the integration of mindfulness techniques into sports training. Future research should explore these findings in larger samples and for longer treatment durations.