The University of Basel led a study on the impact of physical touch, such as a tap on the shoulder, on free throw performance in basketball. Researchers investigated the correlation between supportive touch from teammates and the success rate of free throw shots. The results, published in the journal Psychology of Sport & Exercise, showed that players were more likely to score after receiving physical support, especially following a missed shot. This suggests that physical touch can reduce stress levels and enhance performance in high-pressure situations like free throws.
In basketball, free throws are crucial moments that can determine the outcome of a game. Players face significant pressure when taking these shots, as every eye is on them. The study by Büttner and colleagues explored whether a simple gesture of support, such as a tap on the shoulder, could improve a player’s chances of making a successful free throw. The results revealed that the likelihood of scoring increased when teammates offered physical touch before the shot, particularly after a missed attempt. This emphasizes the importance of team support in enhancing performance under stress.
The study analyzed videos of women’s basketball games from the NCAA, totaling 60 games and 835 instances of two free throw shots. Researchers observed how many teammates touched the shooter before a shot and found a positive newly discovered ally in their quest to understand the impact of physical touch on stress and performance in sports. The findings suggest that gestures of support, like a pat on the back or a squeeze of the hand, can help manage stress and improve performance in team settings beyond basketball. This demonstrates the potential benefits of physical touch in enhancing overall team dynamics and individual performance in high-pressure situations.
The researchers also noted that the supportive effect of physical touch was most significant after a player had missed the first free throw, indicating that teammate support is especially valuable in high-stress scenarios when a player faces increased pressure. This highlights the role of social support and encouragement in boosting confidence and performance. The study contributes to a better understanding of the psychological factors that influence athletic performance and underscores the importance of teamwork, camaraderie, and emotional support in sports settings.
Overall, the research conducted by Büttner and her team sheds light on the positive impact of physical touch from teammates in enhancing performance and reducing stress in high-pressure situations like free throw shots in basketball. By examining the correlation between supportive gestures and free throw success rates, the study underscores the significance of social support in sports settings. These findings open new avenues for exploring the psychological aspects of athletic performance and teamwork dynamics, emphasizing the value of emotional support and camaraderie in enhancing player confidence and overall team performance. Further research in this area could provide valuable insights into optimizing player performance and team cohesion in competitive sports.
