The Effects of Positive Self-Talk Among Winning Athletes in Martial Arts: A Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

Positive self-talk is a psychological strategy employed to enhance athletic performance and resilience. This mixed-methods study explores the impact of positive self-talk on athletes' success in martial arts disciplines, including arnis, karate, and taekwondo. Quantitative data was collected through surveys administered to collegiate competitive athletes, and qualitative insights were derived from in-depth interviews with seven award winning martial artists. The study reveals that athletes using positive self-talk demonstrate statistically significant improvements in focus, motivation, and performance under pressure. Qualitative themes, such as increased confidence and reduced anxiety, complement these findings. These results suggest that structured positive self-talk interventions can optimize competitive outcomes for martial artists.