Welcome to another fascinating post from the ORIEMS FIT Straightforward Science Series, where we break down scientific research in the simplest way possible.
Today, we explore how the words you say to yourself before jumping can actually improve your performance. Let’s dive into what the science says!
(Scroll to the end of each post to find a link to the original study, often with full PDFs—perfect for building your research collection.)
What is this research about?
This study, titled "Effects of Instructional and Motivational Self-Talk on the Vertical Jump," looked at how self-talk (the things you say to yourself) influences physical performance—specifically vertical jump height and power.
Who conducted this research and where?
- Authors: David A. Tod, Rhys Thatcher, Michael McGuigan, and Joanne Thatcher.
-
Institutions:
- Aberystwyth University in the United Kingdom
- Edith Cowan University in Perth, Australia
These institutions are highly regarded for their sports science programs, and the researchers have expertise in sports psychology and biomechanics.
Who participated in the study?
The study involved 24 healthy and active men and women, aged between 20 and 22 years. These participants were not elite athletes but engaged in regular physical activity like basketball, soccer, or tennis.
What did they measure?
The researchers tested the participants’ vertical jump height and the power they generated during their jumps. They looked at how these were influenced by:
- Motivational Self-Talk: Saying phrases like, "I can jump high!"
- Instructional Self-Talk: Saying phrases like, "Bend and drive!"
- Neutral Self-Talk: Counting backward as a control condition.
- No Instructions: Simply jumping without any self-talk.
What did they find?
General Explanation
Both motivational self-talk and instructional self-talk improved participants’ jump height and power.
Neutral self-talk and no instructions had little to no effect.
Specific Evidence Supporting the Findings
-
Jump Height:
- Participants using motivational self-talk jumped an average of 0.414 meters, and those using instructional self-talk jumped 0.415 meters.
- This was higher than the 0.403 meters achieved with neutral self-talk and 0.408 meters without instructions.
-
Power Generation:
- Motivational self-talk increased the force generated during the jump to 261.2 Newton-seconds, while instructional self-talk produced 263.9 Newton-seconds.
- Both were significantly higher than the 254.1 Newton-seconds recorded with neutral self-talk.
-
Speed:
- Instructional self-talk helped participants rotate their knees faster at 582.6 degrees per second, compared to 565.8 degrees per second with no self-talk.
Why does this matter?
Words are powerful! This research shows that what you say to yourself can directly affect your physical performance. By focusing your thoughts and energy with positive or instructional phrases, you can:
- Generate more power during exercises like jumping or sprinting.
- Perform with better technique by keeping your mind on the movement.
- Feel more confident, which can lead to better results in sports or fitness.
How can this help you?
- Before a challenging exercise, try using motivational phrases like "I can do this!" to build confidence and energy.
- During technical movements, focus on instructional phrases like "Keep your core tight" or "Drive through your legs."
- Avoid letting your mind wander; what you say matters more than you think!
Link to the Research
Research Paper Name: Effects of Instructional and Motivational Self-Talk on the Vertical Jump
Simplified Name: How Self-Talk Boosts Your Jump Height
Authors: David A. Tod, Rhys Thatcher, Michael McGuigan, and Joanne Thatcher
Source: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2009
Click here to read the full study
This is a reliable and trustworthy source published in a peer-reviewed journal widely respected in sports science.
What do you think?
Have you ever tried using self-talk to boost your performance? What phrases work best for you?
Let us know in the comments below, and feel free to share this post with anyone who could use a little mental boost in their fitness journey!
Enhance your fitness and relaxation routine with EMS technology trusted by over 10,000 Aussies.
Proudly chosen from 68,000+ nominees.
🏆 Voted Year’s Best two years in a row (2024 & 2025).
Click above to check availability.
Disclaimer: This product is designed for general wellness and fitness purposes only. It is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
For Research Digest , all social media channels
About ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST
At ORIEMS FIT, we bring you simplified insights from groundbreaking studies to inspire curiosity and help you explore new ways to improve health and fitness. Share this blog with anyone who might benefit from these findings!
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this website, including all blog posts and content, is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. This information does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical consultation.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before:
- Starting any new treatment or supplement regimen
- Making changes to your current healthcare routine
- If you have questions about your health or medical conditions
Our products are not medical devices and have not been evaluated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Individual results may vary.
For our complete terms and conditions, please visit our full Disclaimer page. . For full details, visit our Disclaimer.
