Option B.4 - Psychological Skills Training

PST Training

It s learnable, should benefit everyone and should complement other preparations. Systematic and constant practice of mental or psychological skills. Can include goal setting, mental imagery, relaxation techniques and self talk. Issues include it is not just for elite athletes, it's not just for problem athletes and it doesn't provide a quick fix.

Phases of PST

Education, acquisition and practice

Goal Setting

Associated with enhancing self-confidence and motivation. Should be SMARTER goals.

SMARTER Goals

Specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, timed, exciting and reviewable

Outcome Goals

Results or objectives will be achieved. Compared with others.

Performance Goals

Some Measure of personal Performance

Action/ process Goals

Things which need to be done to achieve desired outcomes- outcome goals giver direction while action goals move us toward that direction

Mental Imagery

Employment of imagery to mentally practice an act, is a technique. Associated with concentration enhancement, self-confidence, skill acquisition, emotional control, practice strategy and can help cope with pain and injury. Issues include using all the sense, external and internal imagery and imagery control.

Relaxation Techniques

Associated with arousal regulation, reducing somatic and cognitive anxiety. Should include progressive muscular relaxation (tensing certain muscles), breathing techniques and biofeedback.

Self-Talk techniques

Associated with concentration, attention, cognitive regulation and motivation enhancement. Is an internal dialogue. Encourage positive self talk and limit negative self talk