Motor Imagery Training and Shooting Performance in Adolescent Basketball Players

Effects of Motor Imagery Training on Shooting Performance Under Cognitive-Motor Dual-Task Conditions in Adolescent Basketball Players

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of an eight-week motor imagery training program on shooting performance in adolescent basketball players under single-task and cognitive-motor dual-task conditions. Thirty male basketball players aged 15-17 years were randomly assigned to either a motor imagery group or a control group. Both groups continued their routine basketball training, while the motor imagery group additionally completed a structured PETTLEP-based motor imagery program three times per week for eight weeks. Two-point and three-point shooting performance was assessed before and after the intervention under both single-task and cognitive-motor dual-task conditions. The study aimed to determine whether adding motor imagery training to routine basketball training improves shooting performance and the ability to maintain shooting performance while simultaneously performing a cognitive task.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male basketball players aged 15-17 years.
• Regular participation in basketball training.
• Voluntary participation in the study.
• Written informed consent from a parent or legal guardian and assent from the participant.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of a musculoskeletal injury or health condition that could prevent participation in basketball training or performance testing.