Neural Correlates of Performance and Neurofeedback Training in Ice Hockey Shooting
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2018-04-30
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Abstract
The purpose of this research was to investigate individual alpha peak frequency, event-related dynamics of brain oscillations, and the effect of neurofeedback training in the externally paced skill of ice hockey shooting. A review of literature and rationale for three stand-alone manuscripts are presented in chapter one. In chapter two, inter- and intra-individual variations in individual alpha peak frequency (IAPF) and ice hockey shooting performance were examined. No significant inter-individual variation between baseline IAPF and level of shooting performance or intra-individual pre- to post-shooting performance were found, suggesting that IAPF is a stable neurophysiological trait marker. In chapter three, event-related dynamics of brain oscillations in the externally paced skill of ice hockey shooting performance were explored. In contrast to research on closed skill sports, significant widespread ERS (or reduction of ERD) of theta, alpha, SMR and beta 1 bands was observed after the externally paced signal to shoot on net occurred. This finding is likely indicative of automaticity and reduced cognitive processing. Furthermore, widespread ERD occurred prior to the external cue, which is likely indicative of increased information processing. In chapter four, the effect of a sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) neurofeedback training (NFT) intervention on ice hockey shooting performance was investigated. The SMR-NFT participants demonstrated the ability to regulate SMR activity in the lab setting, but no significant changes in SMR power were observed during the actual ice hockey shooting performance. Ice hockey shooting performance was improved for all participants, yet the rate of improvement for the SMR-NFT group was significantly greater than the control. Finally, in chapter five overall findings and future recommendations are discussed.
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Electroencephalography (EEG), Individual Alpha Peak Frequency (IAPF), Event Related Synchronization (ERS), Event Related Desynchronization (ERD), Neurofeedback training (NFT), Biofeedback training (BFT), Optimal performance, Sport, Ice hockeyElectroencephalography (EEG), Individual Alpha Peak Frequency (IAPF), Event Related Synchronization (ERS), Event Related Desynchronization (ERD), Neurofeedback training (NFT), Biofeedback training (BFT), Optimal performance, Sport, Ice hockey
Citation
Christie, S. (2018) Neural correlates of performance and neurofeedback training in Ice hockey shooting (Doctoral thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/31898