Mental training: Chinese calligraphy

ISSP Master Class

Chinese calligraphy practice as a mental training method:

A science-to-practice approach

L. Zhang and Ms. X. Yue

Many empirical studies have shown that traditional mental skills training (e.g., relaxation exercises, imagery exercises, simulation exercises, attention-focusing exercises, biofeedback exercises, goal setting exercises, etc.) can effectively improve athletes’ mental skills and sports performance.

I personally believe that knowledge of training systems conducted in cultures other than the West is important so that we do not keep our minds closed to non-traditional treatment or ways that are well known to us. This Master Class offers us that opportunity.

Chinese calligraphy practice can not only strengthen athletes’ mental skills, but also improve athletes’ spirituality, which is a new method of mental training that combines both arts and Taoism.

In this presentation, Zhang Liwei of Beijing Sport University, who has worked with the Team China in preparation for the Summer and Winter Olympics since 2000, will introduce the characteristics of Chinese calligraphy practice and discuss how it can be used to help athletes conduct mental training through the practice of calligraphy and to achieve practical results in international competitions including Olympics through three cases.

Yue Xin, a doctoral candidate at Beijing Sport University, will report on seven experimental studies conducted by  Zhang’s team, presenting findings that calligraphy practice enhances manual stability, promotes self-control, and improves self-efficacy. Some of the findings supported the facilitating effect of calligraphy practice, while some failed to find the positive effect.

Overall, Chinese calligraphy practice is a very promising way of mental training due to its Chinese cultural characteristics and the role of both art and Taoism.