Mental training for athletes

WHY THE NEED FOR MENTAL TRAINING?

➥ All athletes should have mental training to be able to "survive" in competitive, stressful and anxious moments.
➥ Without mental training, an athlete is bound to collapse under pressure.
➥ One does not have to be a professional athlete to experience those anxious moments when your heart starts pounding, hands getting sweaty and knees going weak.
➥ Moments of panic, anxiety and emotional ups and downs can interfere with the physical performance at any and every level.

Many athletes with great physical capabilities have been removed from competitive sports because they could not perform on the day of the competition. They might perform well in practice but panic during competitions.

BASIC MENTAL TRAINING INCLUDES:

1. Focusing on your breathing
Focus on your breathing by taking deep inhalations through the nostrils. This helps you to relax, feel more centered and be less prone to distraction.

2. Visualizing
The mind cannot differentiate between imagination and reality. Therefore, spend time every day visualizing the performance desired. Imagining the outcome of the performance helps build confidence.

3. Affirming yourself
Use affirmations to help your mind believe what your body can do. The moment you start believing in what you are capable of, are the moments you excel the most. Use encouraging words like “I can do this,” “I am strong and capable” or “I will accomplish my goal” to affirm and build confidence in yourself.

Now that you have learnt some of the basics of mental training, try to use these techniques whenever you are feeling nervous and stressed out. These tips worked for me, and i'm sure they will work for you too! To me, having self-confidence is key to excelling in whatever you do. Be it sports, work or studies, with self-confidence, you will surely excel! Press on! ッ


References:
http://www.panicbuster.com/anxiety.shtml
http://www.athletics-training.com/articles/sports-psychology.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/wellbeing/7949997/How-to-breathe-life-into-your-body.html
http://www.elephantjournal.com/2011/11/mental-training-for-athletes-elizabeth-aspen-pseudonym/
http://careergirlnetwork.com/visualizing-success/
http://ibelieveandbecome.com/2012/05/28/believe-and-become/