On the generalizability of the age-related decline in coping with high-arousal conditions in a precision sport: replication and extension.

Two field experiments are reported in which highly skilled miniature golf players varying in age were examined during training and competition (Swedish championships). Number of shots, heart rate, and subjective ratings of anxiety were registered. Results indicated that young and older adult players exhibited a similar increase of competitive anxiety from training to competition, as evidenced by both measures of arousal. In addition, whereas older players deteriorated in motor performance during competitive play, young players improved motor performance in competition. This pattern of results replicates and extends previous research. It is suggested that the data reflect age-related differences in the ability to cope with high-arousal conditions as a result of age-related deficits in task-relevant cognitive abilities.