Driven by Music : Effect of Tempo on Cognitive Performance in Precision Based Athletes

This study investigates the effects of instrumental music tempo on cognitive performance in national-level athletes. A total of 90 athletes from precision based sports specifically shooting sport, archery and fencing (aged 18 to 25 years). Athletes were randomly assigned to three conditions: fast tempo music (>120 BPM), slow tempo music (<76 BPM), and control group (no music). Parameters for cognitive performance were reaction time, working memory and accuracy. They were assessed using the Deary–Liewald Reaction Time Task (simple and choice reaction time, error count) and the N-back task (working memory accuracy and false alarms). The study followed a pre-post experimental design. Athletes in the experimental groups were exposed to assigned music conditions before post test measurements. A mixed design ANOVA revealed significant reaction time × music tempo interactions across cognitive variables. Fast-tempo music improved reaction time (faster reactions) but increased error rates, indicating a speed–accuracy trade-off. In slow tempo music, reaction time worsened (slower reaction) but enhanced accuracy by reducing error rates and false alarms, suggesting improved inhibitory control. These findings demonstrate that music tempo influences cognitive processes, with fast music enhancing speed and slow music promoting accuracy. These results support the use of tempo based music as a practical tool for cognitive or arousal regulation in athletic settings.