Performance profiling is a valuable technique, used to identify and organise training, preparation and the development of an individual (Richards, 2008). This technique can provide important information on athletes, which can be used to implement realistic goal setting strategies and help maximise their intrinsic motivation (Butler et al. 1992; Jones, 1993). If applied correctly, these […]
Motivation can be defined as the factors which direct and energise the behaviours of humans and other organisms- the drive behind the reasons we do things. Researchers have investigated a number of theories in order to understand motivational needs- however it seems that it is only through looking at these theories as a collective motivation […]
Development is always a hot topic. How do leaders develop employees? How do coaches develop athletes? How do teachers develop students? Development is always at the forefront of organizations and teams believing that development is the route to success. However, development has many moving parts when identifying the best approach for an individual or organization […]
Athlete preparation is a hugely diverse area with many different factors contributing to producing the best possible performance on any given occasion. It is the norm to see player preparation centred around the physiological aspect of performance, whether that is muscular or any other physiological aspect. Consequentially, a factor, which may often be overlooked, is […]
Imagery is a great tool for improving sports performance and its use and benefits have been well documented. However it is thought that the weaknesses of imagery can limit the extent to which it is useful i.e. not all athletes have the ability to image successfully. Therefore it is suggested that the use of observation […]
“Lack of direction, not lack of time, is the problem. We all have twenty-four hour days.” – Zig Ziglar This month I would like to discuss the aspect of focus and concentration to create performance and ultimately success. I’m sure it would prove beneficial to discuss the theoretical frameworks of focus and concentration. Concepts such […]
In my previous article about parenting in sport (link available below), it was concluded parents should support, praise and encourage their child’s involvement in sport. What failed to be detailed however, is when praise should be given and where it should be directed. Therefore I shall attempt to answer these questions in the current article. […]
Abraham Lincoln once described an a optimist as someone who “finds opportunity in every difficulty” whilst a pessimist to be someone who ‘finds difficulty in every opportunity”. Another way to look at optimism is in terms of explanatory style. Explanatory style examines the way an individual explains their experiences, successes and failures (Scheier & Carver, […]
Athletic identity is defined as the degree to which an individual identifies with the athlete role (Brewer, Van Raalte, & Linder, 1993). Athletes are usually rewarded for complete commitment to being an athlete and placing their sport as their highest priority. Unfortunately, there has been evidence that a strong and exclusive athletic identity is potentially […]
The topic of hydration still appears to be confusing for those who are looking for advice. A quick search on online and you will find a variety of conflicting information that could not only affect performance, but your health too. The aim of this article is to “sieve the gold from the sediment” and provide […]