The Effects Of Message Framing On Motivation And Performance In Cyclists

A coach can use either controlling or supportive message framing to convey information to the athlete that can affect the provision of basic needs and affect the athlete's motivation (Ryan, 1982). Cycling is a physically and mentally challenging sport that requires high amounts of self-determination to succeed. Cyclists often complete training on their own and communicate with a coach through an online platform. The wording of written messages while communicating online between athlete and coach can convey either controlling or supporting messages that can affect athlete motivation and performance. On the basis of self-determination theory, the purpose of this study was to determine whether either a controlling or supportive message given prior to a cycling ergometer test to exhaustion would alter perceived competence, perceived autonomy, motivation and performance in a group of amateur cyclists.