Mental Preparation for Performance

Question 1

Arousal

* definition

Answer 1

A physical and mental state of alertness ranging from deep sleep to intense excitement
* Arousal can affect the physical performance of a sportsperson and their mental state
* Arousal levels need to be controlled to ensure performance is not affected adversely

Question 2

Inverted-U Theory

* what does the graph show
* what can over or under arousal lead to

Answer 2

The inverted-U theory of arousal was developed to show the relationship between arousal and performance
The graph shows:
1. As arousal increases, performance level increases up to optimal performance
2. Above the optimal arousal level, performance levels decrease
When a participant is under-aroused their performance in their sporting activity or skill may be low; this could be due to boredom or not enough concentration

Over-arousal may also lead to low performance in the participant’s activity; this may be due to high levels of stress or anxiety

Question 3

Arousal levels depending on Sport

Answer 3

Sports requiring fine skill and accurate movement and precision, such as aiming for the target in archery, will require low arousal and so will have a lower optimal arousal

Where gross skills with high power and energy are required, such as when lifting weights, high levels of arousal will be needed so the optimal arousal level will be higher

Question 4

Controlling Arousal for Performance in Sport

• name 3 stress management techniques

Answer 4

Arousal levels can be controlled using stress management techniques
These techniques can be carried out before or during a sporting performance
Deep breathing
* Deep breathing is a physical body (somatic) technique
* Participants would deliberately take longer, controlled breaths in and out
Mental rehearsal/visualisation/imagery
Mental rehearsal, visualisation and imagery are techniques of the mind (mental)
Mental rehearsal
* involve a participant visualising themselves performing a skill perfectly before they attempt it lowering arousal levels
* Visualisation and imagery also involve the participant picturing themselves in a safe calm place controlling arousal levels
Positive self-talk
* Self-talk is another mental technique to help optimise arousal levels
* Participants talk to themselves, usually in their heads, with positive affirmations

Question 5

Direct & Indirect Aggression

* definition
* examples

Answer 5

Direct Aggression
This is classified when there is deliberate physical contact between participants
* rugby tackle
* boxing punch
Indirect aggression
Indirect aggression does not involve physical contact and may be used to gain an advantage over an opponent by making them feel less confident or successful
* a tennis player hitting the ball extremely hard toward their opponent

Question 6

Personality Types in Sport

* name two types of personalities
* explain characteristics

Answer 6

Introverts
Common characteristics of an introvert:
* shy/quiet
* thoughtful
* enjoy being on their own
* may become over-aroused easily

Introverts tend to play individual sports that require concentration and precision (fine skill) and where low arousal is required e.g. darts

Extroverts
Common characteristics of an extrovert:
* enjoy interaction with others/sociable
* energised and aroused by others
* enthusiastic and talkative
* prone to boredom when isolated or by themselves

Extroverts tend to play team sports where there is a fast pace, concentration may need to be low, and gross skills are used e.g. football, netball

Question 7

Motivation in sport

* definition
* 2 types of motivation
* examples
* evaluation

Answer 7

Motivation is an internal state of mind that causes us to act toward success or achievement
Intrinsic motivation
* From within - for pride or self-satisfaction and personal achievement
* the feeling after the goal has been achieved
e.g. Intrinsic motivation is deemed more effective than extrinsic motivation
It is more likely to lead to continued effort and participation in the sport
Extrinsic motivation
* From another source - tangible or intangible
* Tangible rewards: certificates, medals or trophies
* Intangible rewards: applause, feedback from others, cheering
e.g. Participants may become reliant on extrinsic motivators such as rewards and may only take part if they are paid or receive recognition