BALADHAMMA AND THE SUSTAINABLE SELF-DEVELOPMENT OF ATHLETES

Abstract

This article proposes the application of the five spiritual strengths (Baladhamma) faith (saddha), energy (viriya), mindfulness (sati), concentration (samadhi), and wisdom (pañña) as inner powers that foster profound and sustainable self-development for athletes in physical, mental, and intellectual dimensions. The study demonstrates that these strengths are not merely abstract principles but can be transformed into practical approaches compatible with the world of sports. Faith inspires motivation and confidence, energy strengthens perseverance and discipline, mindfulness enables awareness and emotional regulation, concentration cultivates stability under pressure, and wisdom allows athletes to learn and accept outcomes rationally. Together, these qualities form a process of self-cultivation that goes beyond physical success toward enduring inner growth. Case studies of athletes, both Thai and international such as the meditation practice of Thailand’s national badminton players, the mindfulness training of Panipak Wongpattanakit, and Novak Djokovic’s mental discipline clearly reflect how Baladhamma can be applied in both competition and daily life. The new conceptual knowledge emerging from this study is the notion of the inner game of the athlete, which emphasizes that the true competition lies within oneself, and that overcoming one’s own mind through Baladhamma is the essence of becoming a complete athlete. The conclusion affirms that Baladhamma is not merely an alternative but a crucial framework for developing the qualities of modern athletes, enabling them to cultivate stable inner strength, understand the meaning of success, and live in balanced and sustainable ways both on and off the field.