Testing and Training Anticipation Skills in Softball Fielders

Abstract

This study investigated whether a video-based perceptual training stimulus could improve anticipatory skill in softball fielders. Elite softball players (mean ± SE age, 19 ± 1 yr) were randomly allocated into a video-based perceptual training group (n = 9), a placebo group (n = 8), or a control group (n = 8). The athlete's decision accuracy and decision time were measured in the laboratory using a ‘life-like’ video-based test of a batter from the perspective of the in-fielder. Following four weeks of training, the video-based perceptual training group had superior decision accuracy and faster decision times than both the placebo and control groups. Importantly these improvements in anticipatory skill transferred to the field environment. The improvements in anticipatory skill were retained after a four week, non-training period. These findings suggest that video-based perceptual training should be used in conjunction with field training to enhance the anticipatory skill of softball fielders.