Mental preparation

• What is the purpose of mental techniques for athletes?

  To control emotions and improve performance
• How do mental techniques benefit athletes?

  They help manage stress and improve participation
• What is imagery in sports psychology?

  • A mental technique
  • Performer visualizes success
  • Can recreate past performances or imagine new ones
• How might a footballer use imagery before a penalty?

  By picturing the ball hitting the net
• What enhances the effectiveness of imagery?

  Using all of the senses for vividness
• What is mental rehearsal in sports?

  • A technique where performers visualize executing skills
  • Focuses on specific stages and correct technique
  • Example: Trampolinist rehearsing a backward somersault
• What does the term 'arousal' refer to in sports performance?

  The level of activation and alertness experienced
• How does imagery help control arousal levels?

  By reducing anxiety through positive focus
• What are the benefits of mental rehearsal for athletes?

  • Enhances skill execution
  • Builds confidence
  • Reduces performance anxiety
• What is the role of mental rehearsal in skill execution?

  It enhances skill execution through visualization
• Why is it important for athletes to manage stress?

  To improve their overall performance
• What is the purpose of mental techniques for athletes?

  To control emotions and improve performance
• How does selective attention benefit a performer?

  It helps focus on the task and ignore distractions
• In what situation might a sprinter use selective attention?

  Focusing on the blocks at the race start
• What does positive thinking involve for a performer?

  Being optimistic and confident about performance
• What is positive self-talk?

  Endorsing one's own ability and progress
• What are the effects of positive thinking on a performer?

  • Improves motivation
  • Improves confidence
  • Improves performance
  • Decreases anxiety
• How can positive thinking psych a performer up before a match?

  By thinking about winning before the match
• How does focusing on strengths help a netball player?

  It enhances confidence before a match
• Why is concentrating on shot placement important for a tennis player?

  It helps avoid negative thoughts about mistakes
• What can increase a runner's confidence before a race?

  Remembering good training preparation
• When do performers practice selective attention and positive thinking?

  • When learning new skills
  • In challenging performance situations