Do brief mindfulness-based interventions improve sport-related performance? A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Psychology
• Mindfulness Studies

Background:

• Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) enhance psychological factors crucial for sports performance.
• Traditional MBIs present barriers like time, cost, and accessibility.
• Brief MBIs (≤ 30 minutes) are emerging as a more accessible alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the effects of brief MBIs on short sport-related performance outcomes.
• To evaluate the impact of time-efficient mindfulness practices on athletic capabilities.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across five major databases.
• Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to November 2025.
• Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool.

Main Results:

• Ten RCTs indicated that brief MBIs positively influenced specific performance outcomes, especially precision-based motor skills.
• Improvements were noted in golf putting, hand grip strength, basketball tactical performance, and penalty kicks/free throws.
• Mixed results were observed for basketball free-throw accuracy, and no significant effects on muscular endurance were found.

Conclusions:

• Brief MBIs (≤ 30 minutes) can yield short-term performance enhancements in sports requiring attention, fine motor control, and decision-making.
• Observed effects are acute, with inconsistent evidence across different sports.
• Further research with standardized assessments and broader performance/physiological measures is recommended.