Scholars' Showcase 2025

Anxiety is a prevalent issue among athletes, among other feelings, particularly at the collegiate level, where it can negatively impact performance, focus, and emotional control. Recent research has explored various interventions to reduce pregame anxiety, with music emerging as a potential solution. Music has long been recognized for its psychological and physiological benefits, including stress reduction, mood enhancement, and focus improvement. This study reviews existing literature on the use of music to mitigate performance anxiety in athletes, focusing on its role in enhancing psychological resilience, physical performance, athletes' attitudes, and motivation. Research has shown that music, both lyrical and instrumental, can help athletes enter a calm, focused state of mind, though its effectiveness can vary based on genre, individual preferences, and sport-specific contexts. Studies have also highlighted that motivational and relaxing music types tend to be the most effective in reducing anxiety and improving performance. However, findings on the general impact of music remain mixed, with some research indicating no significant effects. This review aims to provide insights into how music can be utilized as an intervention to reduce athletic anxiety and improve performance, suggesting that more tailored approaches are necessary for maximizing its benefits.