Psychological Factors in Athletic Performance
- chhoyjessica
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
By Jessica Chhoy
Motivation:
There are many methods an athlete can use to stay motivated. Goal setting, positive self talk, and a supportive environment are some methods. Motivation can either be intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation comes from within the athlete in how inspired or curious they may be in their sport. Extrinsic motivation comes from external factors like the fame or money they may receive from performing well in their sport. Both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation can help athletes stay motivated.
Stress:
Although stress is often viewed negatively in sports, stress can certainly be a motivating factor in enhancing athletic performance. An excessive amount of stress is when athletic performance may start to decrease. Too much stress can lead to the risk in injury as the lack of athletic concentration and cognition may become present. In a sport like gymnastics, gymnasts are likely to perform precise tricks uncoordinated with the presence of high stress levels.
Moreover, stress can have an impact on sleep. Chronic stress may disrupt an athlete's ability to sleep. Sleep is crucial for the human body, especially in athletes. Our bodies need sleep in order to regenerate damaged tissues. Athletes need an adequate amount of sleep as the constant intense physical demand of their sports can cause tissue damage.
Anxiety:
There are many signs that can determine if an athlete may be experiencing anxiety. Muscle tensions, head pain, and a doubt in winning abilities are some. Anxiety can not only cause an athlete to not perform at their highest abilities, but it can also cause them to self sabotage themselves. It is very common for athletes to starve themselves as a way of self sabotage, which this can eventually lead to eating disorders. Specifically, it can lead to anorexia. This can be dangerous as an athlete with anorexia may be prone to injuries like osteoporosis.
Ways to cope with anxiety as an athlete:
Listening to your favorite songs
Mediating and reminding yourself to have fun
Positive self talk (also helps with motivation)
References:
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