Effect of Mindfulness Induction on Taekwondo-Specific Performance and Autonomic Recovery

This randomized, counterbalanced crossover study investigated whether a mindfulness induction could improve kicking performance and facilitate psychophysiological recovery following fatigue manipulation in taekwondo athletes. After completing a cognitively demanding task and a simulated taekwondo match, participants underwent either a 15-min mindfulness induction or a control condition before performing taekwondo-specific kicking tests. Kicking performance and heart rate variability (HRV) were assessed as the primary outcomes, while perceived exertion, blood lactate, mental fatigue, and state mindfulness were evaluated as secondary outcomes. The findings will provide insight into the potential of mindfulness induction as a practical between-match recovery strategy for enhancing both physiological and psychological recovery in taekwondo athletes.

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Be at least 18 years of age. 2. Have at least 4 years of taekwondo training experience. 3. Have normal or corrected-to-normal vision. 4. Be a Chinese speaker. 5. Not be engaged in any weight-loss program. 6. Be free from injury at the time of participation. 7. Provide written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Have regularly practiced mindfulness meditation within the past year. 2. Be currently participating in another clinical trial. 3. Be at high risk for performing physical performance tasks (i.e., a score greater than 0 on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire \[PAR-Q\]).