Comparative study on psychological characteristics and biomechanical indicators of rock climbers at different levels: An analysis based on self-efficacy, sport motivation, and muscle function performance
Authors: Liu Qi , Hou Wenzhi 
Published: January 2025

Background: Rock climbing is a comprehensive sport that integrates physical strength, coordination, and psychological resilience. Significant differences may exist in the psychological states and biomechanical performance of athletes at different levels. However, systematic studies on the psychological characteristics and biomechanical indicators of rock climbers at different levels remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to compare the psychological indicators (e.g., self-efficacy and sport motivation) and biomechanical characteristics (e.g., muscle activation levels, relative peak torque, and flexor-extensor peak torque ratios) of rock climbers to explore the differences and intrinsic relationships between athletes of different skill levels. The findings aimed to provide a theoretical basis for optimizing performance and designing training strategies. Methods: Twenty-two rock climbers participated in the study, including 11 elite athletes and 11 novice athletes. Psychological indicators were assessed using standardized questionnaires, including self-efficacy and five dimensions of sport motivation: Fun motivation, ability motivation, appearance motivation, health motivation, and social motivation. Biomechanical data were collected using the Noraxon DTS surface electromyography (sEMG) system and the Biodex System 4 isokinetic dynamometer, which measured muscle activation levels and the relative peak torque and flexor-extensor peak torque ratios of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle joints at speeds of 60°/s, 120°/s, and 180°/s. Muscle activation signals were normalized as %MVC, and peak torque values were extracted for analysis. The data were grouped by athlete level, and independent sample t-tests were conducted to compare group differences, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Elite athletes demonstrated significantly higher psychological indicators than novice athletes, particularly in self-efficacy (3.19 ± 0.671 vs. 2.77 ± 0.341) and fun motivation (3.28 ± 1.049 vs. 2.78 ± 0.47). Additionally, elite athletes exhibited higher muscle activation levels and relative peak torque in upper limb and core muscle groups compared to novice athletes (p < 0.05), indicating superior strength control and coordination. Conversely, novice athletes had relatively higher peak torque in lower limb muscle groups but showed deficiencies in strength balance and coordination. Conclusion: Significant differences were found in the psychological states and biomechanical characteristics of rock climbers at different levels. These differences likely contribute to variations in athletic performance. Elite athletes displayed stronger psychological advantages and superior strength in upper limb and core muscle groups. In contrast, novice athletes needed to enhance sport motivation and improve upper limb and core strength to develop comprehensive athletic abilities. This study provides a scientific basis for optimizing training strategies for rock climbers at different levels and lays a foundation for future research on the mechanisms underlying climbing performance.