Purpose: Mental fatigue is recognized as a significant factor influencing the reduction of cognitive and physical performance in athletes. This study aims to investigate the impact of mental fatigue on the relative power of brainwaves in pistol shooters using electroencephalography (EEG).

Methods: The study involved 20 shooters divided into two groups: a mental fatigue group (10 participants) and a control group (10 participants). After fitting EEG caps, participants shot 15 rounds as a pre-test. They were then subjected to mental fatigue induced by the Stroop test for 30 minutes. A post-test similar to the pre-test was conducted afterward. Brainwave activity was measured using a 30-channel EEG device to calculate the relative power of theta to beta and alpha to beta ratios during both pre- and post-tests. Data analysis utilized MATLAB, EEGLAB, Excel, and SPSS, employing mixed ANOVA at a significance level of 0.05.

Results: The results indicated that the effect of mental fatigue on the relative theta power over beta was more pronounced in the central and parietal regions. Additionally, the relative alpha power over beta also showed significant differences in the frontal, central, and parietal areas. This suggests a decrease in concentration and an increase in cognitive load among shooters.

Conclusion: Therefore, the findings of this research can assist in improving strategies for managing mental fatigue by identifying the brain regions involved, based on the electrical activity of brain waves in athletes. This may aid coaches in designing training programs and optimizing athletes' performance.