What is sport psychology?

Sport psychology is the study of psychological factors that affect sporting performance and well-being. Essentially, it is the link between emotions and what people are thinking with their behaviour within a sporting context. Addressing only the physical and technical demands of sport is not adequate for optimal performance. To enhance performance, athletes must also prepare for and overcome the mental demands of their sport, from focus and concentration to team dynamics and culture. This mental element of performance is where sport psychology plays a key role in success and allows athletes to cope with various demands.

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What is the role of a sport psychologist?

Ultimately, the role of a sports psychologist is to enhance athletes’ performance and well-being. Some athletes may seek psychological input to enhance their general performance, whereas others may have a specific issue or a psychological skill that they would like to address. Each client is unique and Alex will work with you to identify areas and implement strategies to help enhance your sporting performance.

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Typically, individual consultations involve an initial assessment where Alex will discuss with you past sporting achievements, experiences as a performer in both training and competition environments and your current ambitions.  On reflection and discussion of your current aims, Alex may help develop and implement mental skills such as self-talk, imagery or specific goal setting to help improve your performance. She also works with sport teams, parents, coaches and can deliver tailored workshops on specific psychological skills or team culture.

 

How can it benefit me?

Sport psychology can help improve your performance, enjoyment, well-being and bring a competitive edge to your training and competition environments.

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Examples of where psychological support can make a difference include:

• Coping with performance anxiety

• Developing leadership attributes

• Enhancing resilience

• Increasing self-confidence

• Improving focus and concentration

• Developing communication skills

• Maximising motivation and enjoyment

• Recovering from injury