THE SOUND OF MOTIVATION: INFLUENCE OF MUSIC ON THE PERFORMANCE OF TAEKWONDO ATHLETES IN OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY, ILE-IFE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the psychological and motivational aspects of music's impact on Obafemi Awolowo University Taekwondo athletes, with a particular focus on how music influences their training sessions and overall performance. Investigating how music might improve psychological preparedness, motivation, and focus during training sessions was the goal. Fifty Taekwondo players participated in a quantitative survey to provide information on how they felt music affected their emotional and performance states. According to the findings, 70% of participants had a favourable opinion of music's impact, and 40% agreed that it increases energy and reduces weariness during training. Furthermore, seventy percent of respondents thought that their psychological preparation for competition is greatly improved by the fit between their favorite musical genres and the music played in the gym. Individual variations were observed, though, as 34% of respondents said that music had no effect on their motivation, demonstrating how preferences and training environments affect how athletes react to music. In conclusion, while music is an important motivational element for many athletes, its usefulness differs among individuals. Training programs should create customized music playlists, include a variety of musical genres, include feedback systems, inform athletes on the impacts of music, and offer adaptable training spaces that can accommodate different hearing preferences. These techniques can enhance athletes' mental states and boost their performance in competitive environments.