The effect and relationship of mental training on motivation levels i̇n cross-country skiers

The main purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between cross-country skiers' mental training levels and their motivation levels in sports. A total of 205 active cross-country skiers from different age and education levels who competed during the 2024–2025 season participated in the study. The research was conducted using the relational survey model, and data were collected through the Demographic Information Form, the Sport Mental Training Questionnaire (SMTQ), and the Sport Motivation Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0, applying descriptive statistics, reliability analyses, independent samples t-test, Mann Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis test, and Spearman correlation analysis. The findings revealed a positive and significant relationship between mental training and motivation levels of athletes. In addition, significant differences were found in mental training and motivation scores according to gender, education level, national athlete status, and sport age, while meaningful relationships with age were also identified. The results indicated that not only physical preparation but also psychological readiness plays a decisive role in the performance of cross-country skiing athletes. In particular, regular application of mental training techniques was found to improve athletes' concentration, self-confidence, and coping with stress. In conclusion, it was determined that as the mental training levels of cross-country skiers increase, their motivation levels also rise, indicating that mental preparation has a significant effect on motivation in sports. This emphasizes the necessity of systematically including mental training programs in the practice plans of coaches and sports psychologists. Keywords: Cross-country skiing, mental training, motivation, athletic performance.