Mental skills

Mental skills are practical skills and methods that help athletes compete to the best of your physical, technical and tactical abilities. Some of the mental skills that sport psychologists help athletes develop are listed below.

Click here for a few tips for improving mental toughness.

Goal setting

Goal setting is an effective method for improving your sporting performance. It helps you work out what you want to achieve in your sport, and what you need to do to get where you want to go. Knowing exactly what you want to achieve helps you decide what skills or abilities you have to work on, and sets you on the path to improving your performance.

Click here for a few tips on setting goals.

Imagery

Imagery involves mentally rehearsing aspects of your performance. It allows you to practice in your mind before you perform, and to see yourself perform at your best. The skilled use of imagery helps you clear your mind of distractions, think positively about what you are going to do, and be fully prepared for your game.

If you are already using imagery, click here for a few tips for improving your imagery skills.

Concentration

Concentration is a skill that is recognised as vital by elite sportspeople. No matter how fit, strong and skilled you are, a lapse in concentration during your sporting performance can lead to being beaten by a less skilled opponent. Improving concentration skills is one of the most effective ways of improving your performance.

Click here for tips for dealing with distractions.

Controlling arousal

Emotional arousal has a major affect on performance. Successful sportspeople work hard to find the right level of arousal for their peak performance. Developing skills in controlling your level of arousal can help you prepare well for your sport, perform at your peak during the event, and react appropriately to things that happen during the game.

Confidence

Confidence is one of the main foundations of success in sport. Confident sportsmen and women trust their bodies, their selves and their persistence, and know that they have the skills to succeed. Building confidence can help you be more positive about your performance.