Dynamic Motor Imagery (dMI): A Novel Approach to Motor Imagery and Its Impact on Temporal Accuracy, Learning, and Football Dribbling Performance

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of Dynamic Motor Imagery (dMI) as a novel approach in mental training on three key components: learning, performance, and temporal congruence of football dribbling skills. In this experimental study, 45 amateur male athletes aged 18 to 20 years with similar athletic backgrounds were randomly assigned to three groups: physical practice, Static Motor Imagery (sMI), and Dynamic Motor Imagery (dMI). Following a pre-test of dribbling performance, participants engaged in a 3-week training program with four sessions per week, specific to their assigned group. Performance assessment included measurements of actual execution time, mental imagery duration, successful dribbling trials, and expert evaluations of technical quality. Statistical analyses using ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests revealed that both imagery groups (sMI and dMI) significantly outperformed the physical practice group in post-test and retention test scores (P<0.05). Moreover, the dMI group demonstrated relatively better results in terms of temporal accuracy and technical skill ratings compared to the sMI group. These findings support the hypothesis that combining mental imagery with slight physical movements in dMI enhances cognitive-motor integration, improves temporal fidelity of imagined actions, and boosts the effectiveness of motor skill acquisition. Thus, dMI can be considered a complementary and efficient strategy in athletic training programs, particularly under physical constraints or when aiming to strengthen mental-motor coordination in athletes.