Methodological approaches to enhancing the psycho-emotional stability of basketball players during competition preparation

The article presents methodological strategies aimed at enhancing the psycho-emotional stability of basketball players during their preparation for competitions. The importance of managing psycho-emotional states is emphasized as a key factor in improving competitive performance and maintaining consistency in gameplay. The paper provides a detailed description of anxiety-reduction techniques, including progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, and psychofunctional training incorporating visualization and autogenic practices. Special attention is given to addressing motor disharmony, which manifests as decreased coordination and accuracy in gameplay under elevated anxiety levels. The study is based on an experimental program conducted at an Olympic Reserve Sports School and includes a comprehensive assessment of anxiety levels using the Taylor Anxiety Scale and the Spielberger–Khanin method, as well as analysis of autonomic balance through the Kerdo Index. Quantitative data are presented showing a 54,87% reduction in state anxiety, a 52,14% decrease in trait anxiety, a decline in excessive nervousness from 55% to 23%, and a 48,7% improvement in autonomic nervous system balance. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed program in improving both the psycho-emotional condition and the quality of basketball players’ performance.