The effect of listening to music at different tempos on certain anaerobic performances in volleyball players: An evaluation in terms of chronotype

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of listening to music at different tempos on anaerobic performance parameters in volleyball players, with consideration of chronotype characteristics. Materials and Methods: Thirteen volunteer volleyball players who had been regularly training for at least three years and had no chronic health conditions participated in the study. Participants were classified according to their chronotype using the Horne and Östberg Chronotype Questionnaire. Music conditions were categorized as 60–80 BPM, 90–110 BPM, 120–140 BPM, and no music. Anaerobic performance was assessed using vertical jump and handgrip strength tests, conducted in the morning (08:00–10:00) and evening (18:00–20:00). Data were analyzed using a 2 (time) × 4 (music tempo) repeated measures analysis of variance (Repeated Measures ANOVA), with the level of significance set at p<0.05. Results: Significant differences were observed in peak power, relative peak power, and vertical jump performance across different music tempo conditions (p<0.05). In contrast, no significant differences were found in rating of perceived exertion (RPE) or handgrip strength (p>0.05). Comparisons across time of day revealed significant changes in peak power, relative peak power, and vertical jump performance (p<0.05); however, no significant time × music tempo interaction was detected (p>0.05). Significant relationships were identified between psychological scales and peak power, RPE, and vertical jump performance, whereas no significant associations were found with relative peak power or handgrip strength. Conclusion: The findings indicate that different music tempos influence peak power, relative peak power, and vertical jump performance, but do not affect RPE or handgrip strength. Psychological variables were associated with peak power, RPE, and vertical jump performance, but not with relative peak power or handgrip strength. Overall, these results suggest that music tempo may serve as a supportive factor for enhancing certain components of anaerobic performance. Keywords: Anaerobic test, Circadian rhythm, Music, Music tempo, Performance