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Goal Setting in Sport

Written by Gobinder Gill

THEORY: Goal setting is a motivational tool to support and enhance performance. As humans we focus too much on outcome goals. Although outcome goals are important, performers should also consider performance goals. Performance goals are important because they allow you to better understand your own performance. Therefore, performance goals should be set in conjunction with outcome goals. In addition, short-term and long-term goals should also be set.

PRACTICE: When setting goals you must make sure they are written and evaluated throughout. Know your goal, understand your goal and appreciate your goal. Goal setting is a flexible tool that allows modification of goals when required.

APPLICATION: When training or in competition set yourself two goals. These goals can relate to technique, psychological outcomes and physique. Once goals have been set you must review these and write down actions. Consistently refer back to your goals before the next session.

Author

Gobinder Gill

Gobinder is a lecturer in Sport Psychology and Research Methods at Birmingham Metropolitan College in the West Midlands.

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