Abstract
The aim of this contribution is to describe temperament characteristics of athletes in canoeing and explore differences between competitors in white water slalom and sprint. Temperament and characteristics were outlined and defined through the use of the 'Eysenck temperament questionnaire' (EPI).
Research groups were comprised of national senior, and junior water slalom representatives (N=9) and sprint representatives (N=35). Temperament characteristics, knowledge, performance motivation, individual difference, performance impact, motor learning and relationships are integral components to the training process.
The results show that peak performance in sprint and water slalom canoeing, the most suitable temperament is a sanguine type with low neuroticism scores. In comparing the two disciplines, it is shown that water slalom athletes exhibit significantly lower levels of neuroticism.