Tuning into Success: Evaluating the Acute Effects of Self-Selected Music on Netball Shooting Performance

This study investigated the acute effects of self-selected music on the shooting performance of netball players at UiTM Samarahan, Sarawak. Previous research has shown inconsistent results regarding the impact of music on athletic performance; while some studies indicate significant improvements during training with music, others present contradictory findings. In this study, 41 participants completed three sessions: familiarization, shooting without music, and shooting with self-selected music. Following the session with music, participants completed the Brunel Music Rating Inventory-2 (BMRI-2) questionnaire. The results revealed a significant difference in shooting performance between the sessions without music and those with self-selected music (p = 0.04). The motivational properties scores indicated that most participants found music highly motivating (17 participants, 41.5%), moderately motivating (16 participants, 39.0%), or neutral (8 participants, 19.5%). Listening to music may promote relaxation, improve mood, foster a positive mindset, alleviate boredom, boost endurance, and enhance focus. The release of dopamine in response to music may also be a contributing factor.