Mental Skill Training

Mental skills training is the practice of psychological skills that help athletes perform at their best. Key mental skills such as self-confidence, motivation, arousal regulation, effective communication, and concentration have been related to success in sports.

Similar to physical abilities that are developed with practice, psychological skills must be practiced regularly. When practiced regularly psychological skills will lead to improved mental state, which can improve and maintain high performance.

Mental skills training consists of three phases:
1) EDUCATION: when athletes recognize the importance of mental skills and how they affect performance.
2) ACQUISITION: when athletes acquire mental skills and learn how to employ them.
3) PRACTICE: when athletes are able to automate mental skills and implement them in practices and competitions.

Common techniques used in mental skills training include: goal setting, imagery, and self-talk. When used correctly and practiced regularly, these techniques can help improve you mental game. A Sport Psychology specialist can help athletes use these techniques correctly to improve in wanting areas.

In the next posts I will be explain the techniques listed above, indicate how they can influence performance, and highlight important aspects of each. Visit regularly to learn about mental skills training techniques.