Progressive muscular relaxation program on cognitive and somatic anxiety among novice football players

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Progressive Muscular Relaxation (PMR) technique in the reduction of mental and physiological components of anxiety among novice Football players aged between 16-18 years. A total of twenty (n=20) subjects were selected randomly and allocated into Experimental group (n=10) and Control group (n=10). Experimental group was given PMR training program for 15-20 minutes just after the general football training sessions starting with a few minutes of preparation with deep breathing and body scanning and ending with full body relaxation along and mindful reflection, while the control group were engaged only in usual traditional football training sessions. Both pre and post-tests data were both taken using the Revised Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI2R) questionnaire from the experimental and control groups. The results showed that the PMR program had neither significantly affected the Cognitive and Somatic anxiety among novice football players nor have significant impact on reducing anxiety among novice football players. Thus, need to explore new possibilities and alternative approaches or combinations of interventions for anxiety management among football players. Coaches and sports psychologists working with novice football players should explore various strategies tailored to individual demands and requirements.