Kinesio tape : the effect on self-efficacy in the semi-professional and professional water polo athlete

Abstract

Objective: To analyse the strength of correlation between the application of kinesio taping and perceived self-efficacy, and to establish whether the application of kinesio tape on an injured area had a significant bearing on the confidence levels of the semi-professional and professional water polo athletes. More specifically, to determine the level of perceived confidence of the participants whilst using the taped joint during their daily activities (at rest), during training and during competition. Method: A qualitative, correlational design, with data being collected through an online questionnaire, which was subsequently statistically analysed with the intent to extrapolate and evaluate any trends or relations in response to the research question and hypotheses drawn. Subject recruitment was on a voluntary basis, and restricted to male semi-professional and professional waterpolo athletes above the age of 18 years old that had previously registered at least one season within the national championship at premier or first division level. The data collection period ran on for a total of four weeks during the month of July 2020 and the online questionnaire was available for completion throughout the entire duration. “IBM” SPSS was used to statistically deduce possible correlations and relevant relationships amongst the variables under study, in order to better understand the perception of semi-professional and professional on the effect of the Kinesio Taping Method on self-efficacy. Results: Data analysis revealed that the mean confidence scores were higher in the younger generation of water polo players, in professional sportsmen, and in athletes that suffered an injury within the last year. However, all confidence scores obtained exceeded the standard threshold of 5.1, therefore all participants felt more confident using their injured joint whilst under the application of KT. Conclusion: As the intensity of the activity increased, apprehension increased and mean confidence scores of the athletes decreased. Hence, apprehension and intensity are directly proportional. Simultaneously, as the intensity of the task increases, focus as well as the competitive mindset adopted by the athlete also increase. Even though most results deemed statistically insignificant, participants perceived their sports performance to be better when their injured area was under the application of kinesio tape. The study confirmed that the Kinesio Taping Method had a significant effect on the self-efficacy of semi-professional and professional water polo athletes.