HYPOTHESIS: music tempo affects the performance, psychological response, and physiological response of well-trained athletes.
METHODS: 10 highly trained road cyclists performed four 20-km time trials. The time-trials were spaced one week apart. The music for each trial was randomized between fast-tempo (140 bpm), medium-tempo (120 bpm), slow-tempo (100 bpm), and no music.
RESULTS: There was no significant change in performance, physiological, or psychophysical variables. However, mood disturbance and tension increased significantly in the fast-tempo trial when compared with medium and no-music conditions.
CONCLUSION: music tempo did not affect the performance of highly trained athletes although fast music compared with no music increased both mood disturbance and tension.
Percept Mot Skills. 2013 Oct;117(2):484-97
