THE DYNAMICS OF COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING IN THE PROCESS OF PREPARING A CONTESTANT FOR A TRIATHLON. A CASE STUDY WITH THE USE OF THE AUTHOR’S NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT PROGRAM
Journal Title: Acta Neuropsychologica - Year 2017, Vol 15, Issue 2
Abstract
[b]Background: [/b]The aim of the research project was to prepare a person who does not do much sport and has never taken part in a triathlon, to become a contestant in Ironman, i.e., swim for 3.86 km (2.4 miles), ride a bike for 180.2 km (112 miles) and run for 42.195 km (26.2 miles – the marathon distance). The preparatory period was from January 2015 to June 2016. The author’s neuropsychological training program was applied. It consists of exercises increasing attention span, enhancing episodic and spatial memory. [b]Material/ Methods:[/b]The authors of the project assumed that three Ironman disciplines, i.e., swimming, cycling and running, should be enriched with two additional modules which would ensure the optimum training of the contestant: psychological training and diet. All this should be supported by biological regeneration and relaxation. For the first three months the future contestant was exercising his attention and taking part in relaxation sessions once a week. For the subsequent six months the frequency of the former increased to two times a week, and the latter – three times a week. [b]Results: [/b]It was found that the neuropsychological training program was effective; already after half a year from the implementation of the training plans, the contestant improved the scope of memorized material significantly, enhanced the level of attention focus and achieved a higher level of visualisation when imagining himself in a relaxing place; meanwhile, a lower level of attention focus was observed when he was visualising swimming, which may indicate that this activity was automated. [b]Conclusions: [/b]Multidimensional preparation for a sporting competition, including neuropsychological training, was effective for an increased level of attention focus and visual-spatial memory improved visualization skills, the ability to relax quickly and effectively, and the ability to enter the flow state were effective for our sportsman.
Authors and Affiliations
Ilona Bidzan-Bluma, Marek Pielak, Dagmara Budnik-Przybylska
Keywords
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- EP ID EP205880
- DOI 10.5604/01.3001.0010.2409
- Views 139
- Downloads 0
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