Tapping (EFT) for Athletic Performance: evidence summary

A one-page overview of the peer-reviewed research, prepared for discussion with a healthcare provider. The Tapping Evidence Base · July 2026

9studies
3randomized trials
1meta-analyses/reviews
360participants

Selected strongest studies

StudyDesignJournalEffect
Boath, E., Stewart, A. et al. (2012) Systematic review, 7 studies Staffordshire University, CPSI Monograph
Church, D. (2009) Randomized trial, N=26 The Open Sports Sciences Journal
Llewellyn-Edwards, T., Llewellyn-Edwards, M. (2012) Randomized trial Fidelity: Journal for the National Council of Psychotherapy
Mollazadeh, M., Gharayagh Zandi, H. et al. (2025) Controlled trial, N=29 Sports Medicine: Research and Practice
What tapping (EFT) is. A brief self-administered technique combining exposure and cognitive elements with fingertip stimulation of acupressure points. It is used as a self-help and adjunctive practice for stress and emotional regulation. Effect sizes above are tapping vs. a comparison group; d ≥ 0.8 is considered large. Limitations across this literature include variable use of active vs. waitlist controls and reliance on self-report measures. This summary is informational and not a substitute for clinical judgment.