How to be a better player ‘between the ears’.

Your physical preparation for sport is only a portion of what ultimately determines the outcome of a game, training session or the pursuit of your/team goals.

Mental preparation is not often discussed as an important component of ‘performance’ for athletes. Yet even the best physically prepared players can have their performance negatively impacted by ‘thoughts’ that have a negative impact on their sport. Factors such as lack of confidence, high levels of anxiety and a lack of ‘focus’ are common in sport.

It is important to realize that for some people mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are a significant factor in their life. If you feel that you have an issue that is impacting your emotional well being and you are struggling to manage on your own, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Tell someone. Your best mate, your GP, your physio or get in contact with organisations such as Beyond Blue for help and advice. www.beyondblue.org.au

Improving your mental approach is like learning any other skill in life.
It takes a bit of time and practice to get better at it.

Here are few points to start to consider –

1. Choose & maintain a positive attitude. Remember your attitude is YOUR choice.

2. Maintain a high level of motivation. Set some goals that challenge you but are achievable. These goals might start off as small ones such as ‘At training tonight I will make sure that I am a positive influence on my teammates’ or ‘I will make sure I communicate better and more clearly with my coaching staff’

3. Use positive self-talk “I can get to that next contest” rather than “I won’t get there in time”.

4. Act in the ‘moment’. You can’t change what happened 5 minutes ago, you shouldn’t worry about what you think might happen in the future. Focus on what is in front of you right now and do you best in that situation.

5. Use ‘imagery’ to your advantage. Imagine delivering a lace out pass to a forward after breaking a tackle of taking a clean pack mark.
Imagery is a powerful force in the execution of athletic skills.

‘We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is therefore not an act but a habit’. Aristotle

If you have any questions about what is the best way for you to improve your performance please contact the team at Rise Health Group.

We hope this information and tips help you to perform at your peak.
If you need any help or advice with regard to your well being don’t hesitate to contact the team at Rise Health Group 9763 9233

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