Techniques
Diaphragmatic Breathing
The process of trained diaphragmatic breathing allows for athletes to simply just breathe. Studies have shown that mindful deep breathing has contributed to lowered heart rate and blood pressure, which is important during tense, high stress situations, that often occurs in sport. Athletes that give themselves this moment of clarity, can help them separate and ignore outside distractors and focus on the task at hand.
Positive Self-Talk
Allowing oneself to appreciate their own strengths and acknowledge their own capabilities and influence their own growth, can help an athlete build and maintain confidence regardless of the circumstance. Supporters and admirers tend to only be in favor of those who are accomplished, but when times are tough, it can be a lonely battle. Positive self-talk allows athletes to be their own admirer, because if you don't believe in yourself, who else is going to?
Visualization & Imagery
Developing the mindset that prepares an athlete for an upcoming performance. Having the ability to shut down outside distractors and focus on every aspect of the objective. To be able to sit down, close the eyes, and create from memory the feeling of achievement can produce similar results from that prior success. Practicing visualization and imagery gives athletes the opportunity to place that feeling of past success towards the upcoming performances, giving them that can do mentality rather than the feeling of impotence.
S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting
In sport failing is inevitable. Being able to set more ideal short-term goals, both individually and as a team, creates a building block for progress and forward momentum. S.M.A.R.T. goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-based. Having these ideas in place allows for the minor accomplishments to develop into larger accomplishments and eventually, long-term achievements.
Team Dynamics
It is impossible to win without having a team-first mindset. Being able to communicate and understand roles within a team can establish better cohesion and more organic and congruent flow. In a team dynamic training environment, athletes can grow as leaders, critical thinkers and problem solvers. Working together can also help build a broader picture when it comes to goal development. After all, there is no "I" in "TEAM"!
