Enhancing Neural Efficiency in Competitive Golfers: Effects of Slow Cortical Potential Neurofeedback on Modulation of Beta Activity-An Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Neural efficiency theory proposes that expert athletes optimize brain resource allocation and functioning. Beta band oscillations are associated with attention, motor preparation, and emotional control, reflecting adaptive patterns of reduced cortical energy expenditure (absolute power) and greater temporal precision (peak frequency). Slow cortical potential (SCP) neurofeedback has emerged as a method to train voluntary cortical regulation, yet its application in sports-particularly in precision-demanding disciplines such as golf-remains underexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of SCP neurofeedback on beta band activity in competitive golfers.

Methods: Forty-two golfers were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 21), which completed 16 SCP neurofeedback sessions (2560 trials), or a control group (n = 21). SCP activity was measured during activation and deactivation trials, while EEG beta oscillations were analyzed in terms of peak frequency and absolute power at C3, O2, F8, and T5. These sites were chosen for their relevance to golf: C3 (motor execution), O2 (visual processing), F8 (inhibitory and emotional control), and T5 (visuospatial integration).

Results: The intervention group showed significant increases in positive SCP trials, reflecting improved voluntary cortical inhibition. Peak frequency increased in Beta 1 (C3) and Beta 2 (O2), while absolute power decreased at F8 and T5, which seems to indicate a reduced cortical overload and enhanced visuospatial integration.

Conclusions: SCP neurofeedback modulated beta activity in golfers, enhancing neural efficiency and supporting its potential as an innovative tool to optimize performance in precision sports.