https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/124664 Search the Channel s https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/simple-search https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129055 title: Integrating Self-Talk and Wearable Technology to Enhance Motivation, Self-Efficacy, and Muscle Function in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial abstract: Wearable activity trackers with progressive goal-setting features can significantly increase physical activity, muscle strength, and skeletal muscle index while reducing sedentary time and BMI (Ho, Peng, Liao, & Yen, 2024); multicomponent interventions that combine physical activity, technology support (e.g., activity monitors), and nutrition counseling likewise reduce the incidence of mobility disability and attenuate long-term declines in muscle strength and mass (Bernabei et al., 2022; Billot et al., 2020). However, most interventions prioritize physical outcomes and seldom incorporate comprehensive behavior-change techniques or address psychological barriers to sustained activity (Ho et al., 2024); short-term adherence is typically higher, whereas long-term engagement requires tackling motivation, self-efficacy, and social support (Wu et al., 2025). This study aims to examine the synergistic effect of combining a self-talk strategy with wearable technology to enhance exercise motivation, self-efficacy, and muscle function in older adults. Sixty community-dwelling adults aged ≥65 years were randomized to one of three arms: (1) combined intervention (self-talk + wearable), (2) wearable-only, or (3) control (no intervention). Over 12 weeks, participants completed a smartwatch-tracked structured walking program (100 steps/min, 30 min, 3×/week); the combined group additionally received weekly self-talk training using motivational and instructional scripts. Outcomes included an exercise motivation scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, ASMI (InBody 370S), handgrip strength (Jamar), and the five-times sit-to-stand test (5×STS). Preliminary analyses indicate that the combined group achieved greater improvements in motivation, self-efficacy, muscle mass, and functional performance than the other groups, along with larger increases in daily step counts and energy expenditure; correlation analyses suggest that self-efficacy may be a potential mediator linking physical activity to muscle health. In sum, integrating cognitive strategies with digital monitoring can enhance the effectiveness of physical interventions in older adults and offers a scalable model for promoting healthy aging and preventing sarcopenia; future programs should systematically incorporate behavior-change techniques and psychological support to improve long-term adherence and health outcomes. <br> Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:06:40 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129014 title: The Application of Self-Talk in Enhancing Throwing Performance: The Moderating Role of Player Position in Baseball abstract: Introduction: Baseball is a competitive team sport in which athletes must possess not only tactical awareness, physical conditioning, and technical skills, but also psychological competencies that play a crucial role in on-field performance. In competitive situations, players are required to demonstrate focused attention and effective control of power to cope with the high-pressure and fast-paced nature of the game. In recent years, self-talk has been recognized as an effective psychological skill in sport, capable of enhancing attentional direction, motivation, and performance-related focus by modulating an individual’s internal dialogue. This enables athletes to concentrate more effectively on task-relevant cues. Purpose: Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the effects of different self-talk strategies on throwing performance among elite baseball players across various fielding positions. Methods: We sampled 44 players (average age 19.76 ± 1.10 years) of a college baseball team in Taichung City and assigned them to three self-talk situations. Further, we measured their baseball throwing accuracy and distance. We used 3 (self-talk type)  2 (pitchers and fielders) mixed design ANOVA to analyze the raw data. Results: We found there is no difference in baseball throwing distance but there is a significant difference in throwing accuracy. A Post hoc comparison found motivational and instruction self-talk had better effects than irrelevant conversations. Moreover, the pitchers performed better than fielders in distance throwing. Conclusion: It was concluded that the use of self-talk can improve throwing accuracy for college baseball players. Given that prior studies incorporating self-efficacy assessments in the context of self-talk have primarily focused on novice athletes and considering that the participants in this study are elite collegiate baseball players, it is recommended that athletes incorporate self-talk strategies to facilitate training in throwing and pitching control. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:40 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129015 title: Integrating Self-Talk and Wearable Technology to Enhance Motivation, Self-Efficacy, and Muscle Function in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial abstract: Wearable activity trackers with progressive goal-setting features can significantly increase physical activity, muscle strength, and skeletal muscle index while reducing sedentary time and BMI (Ho, Peng, Liao, & Yen, 2024); multicomponent interventions that combine physical activity, technology support (e.g., activity monitors), and nutrition counseling likewise reduce the incidence of mobility disability and attenuate long-term declines in muscle strength and mass (Bernabei et al., 2022; Billot et al., 2020). However, most interventions prioritize physical outcomes and seldom incorporate comprehensive behavior-change techniques or address psychological barriers to sustained activity (Ho et al., 2024); short-term adherence is typically higher, whereas long-term engagement requires tackling motivation, self-efficacy, and social support (Wu et al., 2025). This study aims to examine the synergistic effect of combining a self-talk strategy with wearable technology to enhance exercise motivation, self-efficacy, and muscle function in older adults. Sixty community-dwelling adults aged ≥65 years were randomized to one of three arms: (1) combined intervention (self-talk + wearable), (2) wearable-only, or (3) control (no intervention). Over 12 weeks, participants completed a smartwatch-tracked structured walking program (100 steps/min, 30 min, 3×/week); the combined group additionally received weekly self-talk training using motivational and instructional scripts. Outcomes included an exercise motivation scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, ASMI (InBody 370S), handgrip strength (Jamar), and the five-times sit-to-stand test (5×STS). Preliminary analyses indicate that the combined group achieved greater improvements in motivation, self-efficacy, muscle mass, and functional performance than the other groups, along with larger increases in daily step counts and energy expenditure; correlation analyses suggest that self-efficacy may be a potential mediator linking physical activity to muscle health. In sum, integrating cognitive strategies with digital monitoring can enhance the effectiveness of physical interventions in older adults and offers a scalable model for promoting healthy aging and preventing sarcopenia; future programs should systematically incorporate behavior-change techniques and psychological support to improve long-term adherence and health outcomes. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:40 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129013 title: Effectiveness and application of blocked and random practice in motor skill learning among special needs populations abstract: Background: Motor skill learning among individuals with special needs—particularly those with cerebral palsy (CP)—remains an underexplored yet critical area within the field of adapted physical activity. While blocked and random practice schedules have been extensively studied in the general population, their differential effects on individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities remain insufficiently understood. This study addresses the following research question: In Boccia throwing, how do blocked versus random practice schedules affect acquisition, immediate retention, and delayed retention (4-week) outcomes after an 8-week intervention in two populations—individuals with disabilities and healthy adults? The hypotheses is Practice Schedule (blocked vs. random) × Group (healthy adults vs. individuals with disabilities) × Time interaction on Boccia throwing accuracy (lower AE and VE indicate better performance). Methods: To answer the question, a longitudinal design will be adopted. Participants will be stratified based on functional motor classification and randomly assigned to either blocked or random practice conditions. The intervention will consist of two 30-minute sessions per week for eight weeks. Performance accuracy will be assessed at three time points: post-acquisition, immediate retention, and delayed retention (four weeks post-training). The expected findings that individuals with disabilities will demonstrate superior learning performance in the blocked practice group, while healthy adults will benefit more from random practice in terms of skill retention and performance consistency. Contributions: This research seeks to inform the optimization of evidence-based training strategies in Paralympic sports and adapted physical education. Ultimately, the results will provide both theoretical insights and practical guidance for coaches, therapists, and physical educators working with individuals with special needs. The study is scheduled as follows: participant recruitment and group assignment will begin in January 2026; the intervention and data collection will be conducted from March to June; data analysis and preparation of the research report will take place in July to August; a conference presentation is planned for September; and manuscript drafting and journal submission will occur from October to December. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:38 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129012 title: Effects of listening to music on pre-match state anxiety in tennis players abstract: Introduction: As the technical and physical disparities among competitive tennis players narrow, the greatest potential for enhancing performance lies in strengthening psychological competitive abilities (e.g., stress and emotion management). Music is increasingly utilized in sports settings (e.g., pre-game warm-ups) as a tool to adjust mental state, boost morale, create an active atmosphere, and help athletes maintain focus. While general research exists, there is a need for further empirical studies focusing specifically on the effects of self-selected music on tennis players in a real competitive setting, linking the intervention to both pre-match state anxiety and actual sports performance. The primary objective of this study is to experimentally investigate the influence of listening to music on the pre-match state anxiety (including cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety, and self-confidence) and the final match performance scores of competitive tennis players. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:36 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129010 title: Integrating self-talk and wearable technology to enhance motivation, self-efficacy, and muscle function in older adults: A randomized controlled trial. abstract: Introduction: With the accelerating global aging trend, maintaining adequate physical activity and muscle strength has become essential for preventing sarcopenia and functional decline. Traditional interventions primarily emphasize physiological exercise prescriptions, yet often overlook psychological barriers such as low motivation and insufficient self-efficacy that restrict long-term adherence among older adults. This study aims to evaluate the synergistic effects of integrating a self-talk strategy with wearable technology on enhancing exercise motivation, self-efficacy, and muscle function over 12 weeks, and to examine the mediating role of self-efficacy between behavioral changes and physiological improvements. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:35 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129011 title: The Application of Self-Talk in Enhancing Throwing Performance: The Moderating Role of Player Position in Baseball abstract: Introduction: Baseball is a competitive team sport in which athletes must possess not only tactical awareness, physical conditioning, and technical skills, but also psychological competencies that play a crucial role in on-field performance. In competitive situations, players are required to demonstrate focused attention and effective control of power to cope with the high-pressure and fast-paced nature of the game. In recent years, self-talk has been recognized as an effective psychological skill in sport, capable of enhancing attentional direction, motivation, and performance-related focus by modulating an individual’s internal dialogue. This enables athletes to concentrate more effectively on task-relevant cues. Purpose: Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the effects of different self-talk strategies on throwing performance among elite baseball players across various fielding positions. Methods: We sampled 44 players (average age 19.76 ± 1.10 years) of a college baseball team in Taichung City and assigned them to three self-talk situations. Further, we measured their baseball throwing accuracy and distance. We used 3 (self-talk type)  2 (pitchers and fielders) mixed design ANOVA to analyze the raw data. Results: We found there is no difference in baseball throwing distance but there is a significant difference in throwing accuracy. A Post hoc comparison found motivational and instruction self-talk had better effects than irrelevant conversations. Moreover, the pitchers performed better than fielders in distance throwing. Conclusion: It was concluded that the use of self-talk can improve throwing accuracy for college baseball players. Given that prior studies incorporating self-efficacy assessments in the context of self-talk have primarily focused on novice athletes and considering that the participants in this study are elite collegiate baseball players, it is recommended that athletes incorporate self-talk strategies to facilitate training in throwing and pitching control. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:35 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129009 title: The Application of Self-Talk in Enhancing Throwing Performance: The Moderating Role of Player Position in Baseball abstract: Introduction: Baseball is a competitive team sport in which athletes must possess not only tactical awareness, physical conditioning, and technical skills, but also psychological competencies that play a crucial role in on-field performance. In competitive situations, players are required to demonstrate focused attention and effective control of power to cope with the high-pressure and fast-paced nature of the game. In recent years, self-talk has been recognized as an effective psychological skill in sport, capable of enhancing attentional direction, motivation, and performance-related focus by modulating an individual’s internal dialogue. This enables athletes to concentrate more effectively on task-relevant cues. Purpose: Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the effects of different self-talk strategies on throwing performance among elite baseball players across various fielding positions. Methods: We sampled 44 players (average age 19.76 ± 1.10 years) of a college baseball team in Taichung City and assigned them to three self-talk situations. Further, we measured their baseball throwing accuracy and distance. We used 3 (self-talk type)  2 (pitchers and fielders) mixed design ANOVA to analyze the raw data. Results: We found there is no difference in baseball throwing distance but there is a significant difference in throwing accuracy. A Post hoc comparison found motivational and instruction self-talk had better effects than irrelevant conversations. Moreover, the pitchers performed better than fielders in distance throwing. Conclusion: It was concluded that the use of self-talk can improve throwing accuracy for college baseball players. Given that prior studies incorporating self-efficacy assessments in the context of self-talk have primarily focused on novice athletes and considering that the participants in this study are elite collegiate baseball players, it is recommended that athletes incorporate self-talk strategies to facilitate training in throwing and pitching control. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:34 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129008 title: Effectiveness and application of blocked and random practice in motor skill learning among special needs populations. abstract: Background: Motor skill learning among individuals with special needs—particularly those with cerebral palsy (CP)—remains an underexplored yet critical area within the field of adapted physical activity. While blocked and random practice schedules have been extensively studied in the general population, their differential effects on individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities remain insufficiently understood. This study addresses the following research question: In Boccia throwing, how do blocked versus random practice schedules affect acquisition, immediate retention, and delayed retention (4-week) outcomes after an 8-week intervention in two populations—individuals with disabilities and healthy adults? The hypotheses is Practice Schedule (blocked vs. random) × Group (healthy adults vs. individuals with disabilities) × Time interaction on Boccia throwing accuracy (lower AE and VE indicate better performance). Methods: To answer the question, a longitudinal design will be adopted. Participants will be stratified based on functional motor classification and randomly assigned to either blocked or random practice conditions. The intervention will consist of two 30-minute sessions per week for eight weeks. Performance accuracy will be assessed at three time points: post-acquisition, immediate retention, and delayed retention (four weeks post-training). The expected findings that individuals with disabilities will demonstrate superior learning performance in the blocked practice group, while healthy adults will benefit more from random practice in terms of skill retention and performance consistency. Contributions: This research seeks to inform the optimization of evidence-based training strategies in Paralympic sports and adapted physical education. Ultimately, the results will provide both theoretical insights and practical guidance for coaches, therapists, and physical educators working with individuals with special needs. The study is scheduled as follows: participant recruitment and group assignment will begin in January 2026; the intervention and data collection will be conducted from March to June; data analysis and preparation of the research report will take place in July to August; a conference presentation is planned for September; and manuscript drafting and journal submission will occur from October to December. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:32 GMT https://tkuir.lib.tku.edu.tw/dspace/handle/987654321/129007 title: Effectiveness and application of blocked and random practice in motor skill learning among special needs populations abstract: Background: Motor skill learning among individuals with special needs—particularly those with cerebral palsy (CP)—remains an underexplored yet critical area within the field of adapted physical activity. While blocked and random practice schedules have been extensively studied in the general population, their differential effects on individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities remain insufficiently understood. This study addresses the following research question: In Boccia throwing, how do blocked versus random practice schedules affect acquisition, immediate retention, and delayed retention (4-week) outcomes after an 8-week intervention in two populations—individuals with disabilities and healthy adults? The hypotheses is Practice Schedule (blocked vs. random) × Group (healthy adults vs. individuals with disabilities) × Time interaction on Boccia throwing accuracy (lower AE and VE indicate better performance). Methods: To answer the question, a longitudinal design will be adopted. Participants will be stratified based on functional motor classification and randomly assigned to either blocked or random practice conditions. The intervention will consist of two 30-minute sessions per week for eight weeks. Performance accuracy will be assessed at three time points: post-acquisition, immediate retention, and delayed retention (four weeks post-training). The expected findings that individuals with disabilities will demonstrate superior learning performance in the blocked practice group, while healthy adults will benefit more from random practice in terms of skill retention and performance consistency. Contributions: This research seeks to inform the optimization of evidence-based training strategies in Paralympic sports and adapted physical education. Ultimately, the results will provide both theoretical insights and practical guidance for coaches, therapists, and physical educators working with individuals with special needs. The study is scheduled as follows: participant recruitment and group assignment will begin in January 2026; the intervention and data collection will be conducted from March to June; data analysis and preparation of the research report will take place in July to August; a conference presentation is planned for September; and manuscript drafting and journal submission will occur from October to December. <br> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:07:31 GMT