Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 25, 2025
06:14
In Vivo Protocol of Controlled Subconcussive Head Impacts for the Validation of Field Study Data
Published on: April 18, 2019
6.6K
Acceptance and Commitment Training for Ice Hockey Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Tobias Lundgren1,2, Gustaf Reinebo1, Markus Jansson Fröjmark1
1Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden.
Frontiers in Psychology
|August 9, 2021
Summary
Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) significantly improved junior ice hockey players' performance and coach ratings. While coach ratings showed lasting effects, objective performance gains were not sustained at follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Sport Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Performance Psychology
Background:
- Mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches require more robust research with direct performance outcomes.
- Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) is a behavioral method enhancing psychological flexibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of ACT on objective and subjective performance in junior elite ice hockey players.
- To assess the impact of ACT on players' focus and commitment to development.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 34 junior elite ice hockey players.
- Intervention group received ACT, control group was wait-listed.
- Objective performance metrics (goals, assists, shots) and blinded coach ratings were collected.
Main Results:
- The ACT group showed significant improvements in objective performance and coach ratings.
- Coach ratings indicated sustained effects at 3-month follow-up, unlike objective measures.
- All participants recommended ACT and valued its contribution to their development.
Conclusions:
- ACT interventions show promise for enhancing athlete performance and psychological development.
- Further research is needed to explore the long-term maintenance of ACT effects and mediating variables.
