Importance of Rational Thinking in Sports Performance

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Martin Turner. Martin is a Reader in Psychology at The Manchester Metropolitan University specialising in human performance under pressure and adversity. Martin’s research also includes the use of a counselling framework called Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) to help athletes reduce their irrational beliefs that cause unhelpful emotions and maladaptive behaviours.

As a practitioner sport and exercise psychologist, Martin has worked with a number of professional athletes across a range of sports including football, cricket, rugby, cycling, archery, shooting, and equestrian.

Martin has a new book out entitled “The Rational Practitioner” which provides a comprehensive portrayal of REBT applied within sport and performance. In this episode we explore the book with a focus on how athletes and coaches can utilise and incorporate REBT into their practices.