Model analysis of the mediating effect of sport anxiety on wushu routine sport performance

Background: Self-efficacy is applied to explain the role of self-confidence in improving performance outcomes. However, a model analysis examining the mediating effect of sport anxiety on sport performance under the condition of self-confidence as a mediating variable at different levels of Wushu routine (Taolu) competitions has not yet been conducted. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the model analysis of the mediating effect of sport anxiety on sport performance when self-confidence acts as a mediating variable. Methodology: Participants were 491 Chinese collegiate Wushu competition athletes (mean age = 20.7 ± 1.3 years) from Yunnan Province, China. The following tools were used for assessment: the Sport Anxiety Questionnaire, the Self-Confidence Questionnaire, and the Sport Performance Questionnaire. Results: Self-confidence was found to be a significant predictor only among Wushu routine student athletes at the provincial level (P3), consisting of 91 athletes in competitions, compared to athletes at other levels. At the provincial level, the results revealed that sport anxiety negatively predicted Wushu routine performance (β = -0.306, R2 = 0.094, p < 0.01). Self-confidence mediated the relationship between sport anxiety and Wushu routine performance, with higher self-confidence reducing the negative impact of sport anxiety on Wushu routine provincial performance (Indirect effect = -0.507, 95% CI [-1.446, -0.047]). Conclusion: Self-confidence is a mediator in the model of sport anxiety's influence on sport performance. Therefore, efforts should be made to improve athletes' self-confidence to attenuate sport anxiety and enhance sport performance in Wushu routine competitions.