If athletes want to get the most out of their sports performance, it’s critical for them to understand the value of improving their mental game. Athletes’ lack of understanding is the number one barrier that prevents them from embracing mental training. Coaches and parents should educate their athletes on the numerous benefits of sports psychology and mental coaching.
Athletes who embrace mental training have an advantage over competitors because they know how to overcome the barriers that limit their performance. They excel in practice, and fully immerse into their as a competitor in competition. Mentally tough athletes find ways to enhance their game and achieve their performance goals.
Athletes with a strong mental game are able to maintain composure after mistakes, commit to their game plan, and reach their peak potential in sports. Rather than getting frustrated or worried after setbacks, they are able to grind it out, finish strong, and perform with confidence. What’s more is that they are able to cope with distracting and focus on successfully executing each play.
It’s important to discuss with your athletes the benefits of a strong mental game. Remind them that they’re not broken or dysfunctional if they choose to embrace mental training. They’re smart and more likely to gain a mental edge to beat out the competition. Athletes will improve their consistency, confidence and focus with some mental game training.
Young athletes can relate to professional athletes who have utilized sport psychology and mental training to enhance their performance. They include Tiger Woods, Roy Halladay, Alex Rodriguez, Aaron Rodgers, Rafeal Nadal and many Olympic athletes. These athletes openly talk about the importance of having a strong mental game. Athletes are more likely to embrace mental training when they understand it and its benefits. However, the best way for athletes to buy into mental training is when they actually experience its power firsthand.
“Well, trying to win a major is pressure, there’s no doubt. I was nervous and that’s a good thing. That means you care. You can try and use that energy as best you can to heighten your focus and then get into the right situation and it worked out great for me this week.”
~ Tiger Woods
