What is PST?
Psychological skills training (PST) is the systematic and consistent practice of mental skills. PST can be used to help athletes improve performance, increase enjoyment in sport, and improve self-satisfaction.
To most effectively use PST, athletes should:
Understand the importance of mental skills in sport and how they can impact sport performance.
Be taught what the mental skill is, why it is important, and how to use it in practice and/or competition.
Incorporate mental skills into both their practice and competition.
There are many mental skills and strategies that athletes use to enhance their performance. The following skills included in the program are known to be the most effective and well-researched skills.
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Goal Setting
Establishing an action plan designed to motivate athletes to become more productive and focused towards achieving sport success.
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Imagery
Creating or recreating deliberate, multi-sensory experiences in the mind. Different functions of imagery enhance many different outcomes.
Self-Talk
The words or phrases we say to ourselves. They should be positive, motivating, meaningful, and easy to remember.
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Routines
Control emotions, focus on the task, and get in the zone. Get competition ready with a pre-performance routine!
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Concentration
Focus on relevant information and block out distractions. Controlling your attention may increase skill execution.
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Managing Emotions
Emotions are our reactions to events, interactions or outcomes in sport. Coping strategies can help reduce stress.
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Psyching Up
Strategies to use when your energy levels are lower than desired. These strategies will help you get into "the zone".
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Relaxation
Strategies to use when your energy levels are greater than desired.
Relaxation techniques can help decrease pre-performance anxiety.
All para-athletes, regardless of competition level, can benefit from the use of mental skills. By completing the modules and integrating the skills into your daily sport environment, you can enhance performance, enjoyment and self-satisfaction.
