The Effect of Mindfulness Training Based on "Live Visual Tracking" Technique on Decision-Making Speed and Flow State among Handball Playmakers

Abstract

The research aimed to develop a training program integrating mindfulness exercises with live visual tracking techniques and to identify its impact on enhancing decision-making speed and flow state among handball playmakers. The researcher used the experimental method with a two-group design (experimental and control) on a purposive sample of (20) playmakers from Premier League handball clubs for the 2025-2026 season. The sample was divided into two equal groups of (10) players each.

The proposed program was implemented over (8) weeks, with (3) training sessions per week. It included specific exercises merging moment-to-moment mental presence with visual processing of complex game situations. Data were analyzed using the SPSS package. The results revealed statistically significant differences between the pre- and post-tests in favor of the post-tests for the experimental group across all investigated variables. Furthermore, the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group in the post-tests, indicating the effectiveness of mindfulness and visual tracking training in improving playmaker efficiency.

Key Conclusions:

Mindfulness training contributed to reaching the "Flow State," ensuring smooth performance under pressure.

Live visual tracking techniques reduced mental response time, leading to faster and more accurate decision-making.

Key Recommendations:

Adopting training programs that integrate cognitive aspects (visual and mental) within handball preparation programs. Conducting similar studies on different playing positions and in other sports.