Umeå universitets logga

Objectives: Elite athletes face numerous psychological challenges that can increase their risk of developing mental health problems. Therefore, interventions to promote the mental health of athletes are crucial. Many coaches and sports psychologists use mindfulness and acceptance-based methods to enhance athletes' performance and well-being. This study examined the experiences of elite student-athletes who participated in an online-based mental training programme. The aim was to understand how these students perceive online mental training, identify challenges and opportunities, and assess their impact on coping with challenges and self-reflection.

Methods: A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews to capture participants' experiences. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2022). Twenty students from two sports high schools in Sweden completed an online mental training programme based on Gardner and Moore's (2007) Mindfulness-Acceptance-Commitment programme. Ten students participated in semi-structured interviews with four girls and six boys aged 17-19.

Results: Our research yielded four themes: (1) mental training can quickly become demanding, (2) I need to share with someone to develop myself, (3) it can be difficult to talk about the mental aspects, and (4) I now approach the world differently.

In conclusion, coaches and sports psychologists can improve online mental training through personalised feedback, increased interactivity and engagement, the creation of support and community, continuity and regularity, and integration of different methods and techniques in daily activities and practice. Considering these factors, we can adapt online mental training to meet student-athletes needs and optimise their experiences.