Sport psychology

Skills are learned patterns of movement acquired through training. They enable athletes to perform effectively. Skills range from simple to complex and can be open or closed, depending on the sport.

Performers need guidance to acquire and improve their skills. Visual, verbal, manual and mechanical guidance are used in different situations and to support performers in a range of different ways.

Feedback tells performers how well they performed or are performing. It can focus on knowledge of results or knowledge of performance and can be intrinsic or extrinsic, positive or negative.

To succeed and perform their best, athletes need to use their minds as well as their bodies. Mental techniques help to control emotions, manage stress and improve participation and performance.

Setting SMART targets helps participants to plan their training. This involves considering the type and regularity of training, ways to stay motivated and ways to improve and optimise training.