Psychophysiological and Performance Effects of Biofeedback and Neurofeedback Interventions in a Top 100 Female Chess Player.

Abstract

(1) Background: Previous studies showed that neurofeedback and biofeedback could improve stress levels, enhance self-control over physiological factors, improve behavioral efficiency, and increase reaction speed to stimuli. Specifically, the sensorimotor rhythm stimulation (12-15 Hz) can enhance cognitive functions such as selective attention and working memory. However, there is no study that analyzes the effect of these interventions in chess players. (2) Methods: A Chess Woman Grandmaster and Chess International Master, with an ELO ranking higher than 2350 points, was selected to participate in this case study. The participant conducted a total of 14 sessions of biofeedback and neurofeedback, training in breathing, sensorimotor rhythm stimulation in Cz, skin conductance, temperature, and heart rate variability combined with chess work. Specific and non-specific tasks were designed to evaluate the intervention. (3) Results: The chess player enhanced the heart rate variability during specific and non-specific chess tasks: chess problems, 15 + 10 games, and puzzle rush games. In addition, the sensorimotor rhythm power decreased during the chess problem and increased during the 15 + 10 game and puzzle rush. Also, chess performance and anxiety levels improved after the intervention. (4) Conclusions: Neurofeedback and biofeedback training combined with chess training could improve the performance of chess players.