Mental Conditioning, Physical Training, and Their Influence on Competition Anxiety Among Male Athletes

Competition anxiety is a critical factor affecting the performance of male athletes, underscoring the importance of combined mental and physical training strategies in managing their responses to competitive demands. This quantitative study examined how mental conditioning techniques (relaxation, self-talk, visualization) and physical training methods (endurance, skill development, strength training) relate to and influence behavioral, cognitive, and somatic aspects of competition anxiety among male athletes in Quezon, Bukidnon, Philippines. Using a predictive-correlational research design with proportionate stratified random sampling, data were collected through validated questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression procedures. Results showed high proficiency in mental conditioning and consistent intensive physical training among athletes, alongside frequent experiences of competition anxiety across its dimensions. Analyses revealed significant positive relationships between competition anxiety and both mental and physical preparation, with visualization and strength training as key contributors to anxiety responses. Overall, mental conditioning and physical training collaboratively shape competition anxiety to enhance emotional regulation and resilience. The findings offer valuable insights for designing mental and physical training programs that effectively manage competition anxiety in school-based athletic settings.