Inhibitory Control as Predictor of Mental Imagery Ability in Athletes: Implications for Cognitive Training in Sports

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education & Sport Sciences, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education & Sport Sciences, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the relationship between components of executive functions and mental imagery ability, as well as to predict mental imagery based on executive function components among athlete and non-athlete students.

Methods: The statistical population included students of Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, from whom 89 participants (45 athletes and 44 non-athletes) were selected through convenience sampling. The study was applied in purpose and descriptive-correlational in method. Executive functions were measured using Nejati’s Cognitive Abilities Questionnaire, and mental imagery was assessed using the Movement Imagery Questionnaire–3. Data were analyzed using Spearman and Pearson correlation tests and linear regression in SPSS version 26, with a significance level of 0.05.

Results: The results showed that athletes had higher mean scores in executive function components and mental imagery compared to non-athletes. In the athlete group, mental imagery was positively correlated with inhibitory control (p=0.008), decision-making (p=0.013), and planning (p=0.006), whereas no such relationship was found among non-athletes. Linear regression showed that inhibitory control significantly predicted mental imagery and explained about 17.8% of its variance (p≤0.05).

Conclusion: physical activity can enhance cognitive processes, particularly in the domains of inhibitory control, planning, and mental imagery. It is recommended that physical training programs be accompanied by cognitive exercises in students’ educational curriculum to improve their mental and athletic performance.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Sports Psychology
Volume 17, Issue 2
February 2025
Pages 281-295

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History

  • Receive Date: 13 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 26 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 21 December 2025

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