There are many theories surrounding the development of personality. The Biological Approach to personality suggests that genetics are responsible, with a well researched link between genetics and personality traits (Eysenck, 1967). Behavioural theories associate personality characteristics with the individual and their interaction with the environment; focusing on learning stemming from increased behaviours that have positive […]
According to dictionary.com, a “cliché” is “a trite, stereotyped expression; a sentence or phrase, usually expressing a popular or common thought or idea, that has lost originality, ingenuity, and impact by long overuse.” Anyone who has spent even a short time involved in sport, at any level, knows that the field of coaching is filled […]
In August of last year I moved to the USA to play soccer for a small university in Tennessee. What we achieved as a team was more than any of us could have imagined, or even dreamt about whilst going through a brutal pre-season at the beginning of August. We under-achieved in our conference, lost […]
Many research studies have found how participation in sport can heighten an individual’s probability of developing an eating disorder or disordered eating problems. This is due to not only psychological, socio-cultural and genetic pre-dispositions to developing these issues but also additional risks unique to the sporting environment. Inadvertently, behaviours such as excessive exercise or training […]
“I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life and that is why I succeed.” Michael Jordan In sport, the requirement to bounce back from adversity is key to long-term success. Research across a range of sports strongly suggests that those who demonstrate resilience to adversity are more likely to reach set goals […]
Few studies have investigated the role of overall life stress and wellness on performance and injuries in elite junior sport. The adolescent phase of development is one where athletes face many competing demands. As a result, whilst their need for sleep has not changed to that of childhood, evidence suggests their perception of their need […]
Often, we make the excuse that if we were “motivated enough” to go to the gym to lift weights, shoot extra free throws after practice, or run that extra mile on the track, we could achieve our goals of being a better athlete or achieve a greater level of fitness. However, motivation is a resource […]
Anxiety is a state consisting of psychological and physical symptoms brought about by a sense of apprehension of a perceived threat. However, levels of anxiety can differ according to situation and the individual. Trait anxiety relates to an aspect of personality in which nervousness is a stable personality trait. State anxiety refers to temporary feelings […]
What is an expert coach? What is the difference between an effective coach and an ineffective coach? If these questions can be answered then better coaches can be developed which is important as coaches shape peoples experiences of sport. However there is a lack of consensus in the literature over the definition of an expert […]
“They may have the 10-point gap, but they’ve got a big ask to stay at 10-points for the rest of the season, and I don’t think they’ve got the team to do that right now.” Tony Smith, owner of Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) team the Sheffield Steelers may regret making this comment given that […]