The effect of infra low frequency–neurofeedback training on pistol shooting performance and attention in semi-skilled players

Bakhtafrooz, Safoura; Kavyani, Maryam; Farsi, Alireza; Alboghebeish, Saeed · 2025 · Crossref

DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2025.1487737

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Summary

This study investigates whether Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) Neurofeedback training can enhance pistol shooting performance and specific attentional networks in semi-skilled athletes. While traditional neurofeedback targets higher EEG frequency bands, ILF neurofeedback operates below 0.1 Hz, aiming to improve self-regulation of the central nervous system, arousal, and vigilance. The research addresses a gap in literature regarding the efficacy of this specific neuromodulation technique in precision sports, where attentional control is critical. The authors specifically examined impacts on three attention networks defined by the Attention Network Test (ANT): alerting, orienting, and conflict control. The experimental design involved 20 semi-skilled pistol shooters (aged 28–40) randomly assigned to an ILF neurofeedback group or a control group. Participants were selected based on shooting scores between 530 and 550 and limited competitive experience. The intervention group underwent 20 sessions of 30-minute ILF neurofeedback training, administered three times per week. The protocol utilized a bipolar EEG montage and provided audio-visual feedback via a computer animation, combining inhibition of higher frequency bands (0.5–40 Hz) with training on slow oscillations (<0.1 Hz). Shooting performance was assessed using the Shooter’s Coordination Analysis Target Training (SCATT) system, while attention was measured using the ANT. Assessments were conducted 24 hours before and after the intervention period. Statistical analysis employed mixed ANOVA to evaluate group and time interactions. Results indicated that ILF neurofeedback significantly improved shooting performance in the intervention group, whereas the control group showed no significant change. In terms of attentional networks, the training led to a significant reduction in reaction times for the alerting and orienting networks, interpreted as enhanced efficiency in these domains. Additionally, the training resulted in a significant reduction in conflict reaction times, indicating improved executive control and ability to resolve interference. The statistical analysis confirmed significant interaction effects for both shooting performance and attentional metrics, demonstrating that the improvements were specific to the neurofeedback intervention rather than general practice effects. The study concludes that ILF neurofeedback is an effective tool for enhancing both motor performance and cognitive attention in semi-skilled pistol shooters. By positively impacting alerting, orienting, and conflict control networks, the training supports the mental resilience and focus required for precision sports. These findings suggest that ILF neurofeedback offers a viable method for optimizing athletic performance through endogenous neuromodulation, providing practical implications for sports psychology and training protocols in disciplines requiring high levels of sustained attention and emotional regulation.

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