EEG-based neurofeedback in athletes and non-athletes

Summary

(A)Authors(Year)SampleDiscipline & LevelProtocol (Summary)Main Findings[6]24 pre-elite archersArchery—pre-elite with competition experienceRCT with 3 groups: correct feedback, incorrect (active sham), and control; feedback modeled on slow cortical potential (SCP) paradigmSignificant improvement in performance in performance in the correct feedback group; performance decrement in incorrect feedback group; no significant change in control[35]12 elite gymnastsGymnastics—national/internationalDouble-blind RCT: Alpha-band NFB vs. Sham (active control with random beta-band feedback)Trend toward improved mental balance, physical shape, and reduced sleep complaints (ns)[36]16 pre-elite/elite golfersGolf—national/internationalRCT: SMR-based NFB vs. Sham; pre-post assessment of EEG and performanceIncreased putting accuracy, consistency, and SMR power in NFB group; no change in control[37]18 elite judokasJudo—national/internationalDouble-blind RCT: NFB targeting θ/β ratio vs. Sham; pre-post designSignificant gains in balance and β-power (p < 0.05); no significant change in sham group[7]30 male basketball playersBasketball—competitive athletes (level not specified)Double-blind quasi-experimental design: generic NFB protocol (EEG at Cz/Fz/parietal); control with sham feedbackImproved reaction time, balance, attention and reduced anxiety compared with controls (p < 0.05)[38]26 triathletes (elite endurance) and 25 controlsTriathlon—elite endurance athletesDouble-blind RCT: SMR-NFB vs. Sham (single session); EEG and MRI metricsReal NFB group: ↑ SMR power (p = 0.02), ↑ gray/white matter volumes (p < 0.001); no change in sham[39]64 novice golfersGolf—no prior competitive experienceRCT: SMR, alpha, mu NFB vs. Sham; pre-post and retention testsSMR & alpha groups: ↑ putting accuracy and EEG power short- and long-term; mu group ≈ sham[40]36 skilled golfersGolf—competitive amateursSingle-session RCT: FSI-NFB vs. TI vs. Sham; FMT measuredFSI-NFB improved putting success and reduced FMT pow...