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Evaluating Functional Imagery Training and Internal Visual Imagery on Tennis Serve Performance.
Jonathan Rhodes1, Amelie Leach1
1School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom.
Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology
|February 19, 2026
Summary
Functional Imagery Training, a multisensory approach, significantly improved tennis serve accuracy more than single-sense imagery. This highlights the importance of structured, motivational imagery for athletic performance enhancement.
Area of Science:
- Sports Psychology
- Motor Skill Acquisition
Background:
- Imagery is a common tool in sports, but its effectiveness varies.
- The structure and sensory engagement of imagery influence its impact on performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of Functional Imagery Training (FIT) against single-sense visual imagery and a control group.
- To investigate the role of imagery ability and preference in performance outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-eight tennis players participated in a 6-week intervention comparing FIT, visual imagery, and no imagery.
- Serve accuracy was measured pre- and postintervention using a target-based scoring task.
Main Results:
- Both imagery interventions improved serve accuracy, with FIT yielding significantly greater gains.
- The control group showed no significant performance improvement.
- Imagery ability and preference did not predict performance outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Multisensory and motivational imagery interventions, like FIT, are effective for enhancing athletic performance.
- The structure and emotional relevance of imagery are more critical than individual preference or ability.
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