The effects of attentional focus instructions on approach jump performance

Abstract

Introduction Attentional focus has been shown to significantly influence motor learning and performance, with external focus instructions enhancing performance compared to internal focus instructions. Research has also demonstrated that novice performance is improved when instructed to focus on skill execution processes rather than outcomes. However, this effect remains untested in complex jumping skills crucial to numerous sports. Purpose This study aimed to investigate the effect of internally and externally directed process and outcome focus instructions on approach jump height and approach speed in novice participants. Methods Twelve individuals aged 18 to 22 participated across three sessions: Familiarization, Test Session 1, and Test Session 2. During the test sessions, participants executed approach jumps in various conditions, each emphasizing specific cues: External Focus-Outcome, Internal Focus-Outcome, External Focus-Process, and Internal Focus-Process. Jump-and-Reach Height, Estimated Jump Height by Flight Time, and Approach Speed were assessed through 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVAs. Results External focus and outcome conditions led to the highest jump-and-reach height ( p < .05). Process conditions yielded faster approach speed compared to outcome conditions ( p < .001), irrespective of internal or external focus direction. Estimated jump height by flight time was similar across all conditions. Conclusions The study suggests that benefits of external focus and process instructions for novices may apply only to certain performance variables in complex motor skills. Practical Applications Practitioners can optimize novices’ performance using various process- and outcome-based instructions. External, outcome-based cues enhance overall task performance, while process-based cues may improve specific technical components.