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Competing at the Olympic level requires superior physical
training and skill. Today, mental training has become a huge component
in preparing for competition at this level.
One
obstacle to performing at the highest level is anxiety. Performance
anxiety is the result of a malfunction in a complex neurologic system.
The
human brain is organized into two basic structures. The diencephalon
is the reflex portion. Some examples of these reflexes include breathing
or removing an extremity from a painful surface. The telencephalon is
the thinking portion that controls cognitive activity.
The
“fight or flight” response is a reflex that includes a wave of
adrenaline resulting in increased heart rate, rapid breathing and
tremors. This response is typically brought on by fear. When this reflex
redirects the thinking portion of the brain, havoc can ensue.
If
the “fight or flight” response can be channeled by the cognitive
regions, the energy produced can result in a phenomenal performance. It
is the goal of sports psychologists to provide the necessary tools for
athletes to harness this energy and direct it appropriately.
Similar
to physical training, this is accomplished by practice. Mental and
physical repetition of a skill or presentation makes the process more
automatic and smooth.
A basic approach involves identifying a goal, visualizing the goal and then blocking out distractions.
“The
mental side of sport is actually the mental side of preparation. Many
athletes work hard but they don’t work with purpose. One principal
aspect of sports psychology is learning how to integrate the mental side
with physical preparation,” states Dr. Douglas Gardner, a sports
psychologist who works with many amateur and professional athletes.
Application of this approach to training for any endeavor can result in new levels of success.
