This chapter examines the essential mental preparation athletes require for the Olympics, focusing on the psychological challenges like anxiety and setbacks. It emphasizes the significance of mental training alongside physical conditioning in achieving peak performance amidst intense competitive pressure.
Jess Thom, lead psychologist for Team GB, tells Madeleine Finlay how she prepares athletes for failure and success – and the challenges that arise when the games are over and they have to return to normal life. Help support our independent journalism at
theguardian.com/sciencepod