Attentional Focus in Action: Enhancing Volleyball Performance in Female Youth Through Targeted Training Cues

Abstract

This study examined the effects of internal and external focus training on balance, vertical jump performance, hand–eye coordination, and flexibility in junior and adolescent female volleyball players. Thirty-four participants (seventeen juniors and seventeen adolescents), aged 7–11 years and 12–14 years, respectively, and actively participating in girls’ volleyball teams, were included. Sociodemographic data were collected using a structured personal information form. Athletic performance was assessed using the Vertical Jump Test (VJT), Flamingo Balance Test (FBT), Y-Balance Test (YBT), Standard Sit and Reach Test (SRT), and Wall Catch Coordination Test (WCCT) to evaluate jump performance, static balance, dynamic balance, flexibility, and hand–eye coordination, respectively. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two training groups. The internal focus group performed exercises using internally focused instructions, whereas the external focus group trained with externally focused cues throughout the intervention. Statistically significant differences were observed between the internal and external focus groups in pre- and post-test outcomes of the VJT, FBT, YBT, and SRT (p < 0.05). No significant between-group difference was identified for the WCCT (p > 0.05). External focus training was more effective in improving jump performance, dynamic balance, and flexibility. In contrast, neither training approach demonstrated clear superiority in enhancing static balance or hand–eye coordination.