Science for Sport Podcast cover image

Science for Sport Podcast

248: Overcoming Pressure and Performing Under Stress

Dec 30, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Haley Perlus, a distinguished sport and performance psychologist, shares her journey from elite alpine ski racing to helping athletes master their mental game. She unveils how pressure can be transformed into a competitive advantage and provides practical strategies for maintaining focus and calm during stressful moments. Dr. Perlus emphasizes the importance of recovery and highlights how embracing stillness can unlock creativity and brilliance, offering valuable insights for athletes and anyone aiming to improve their mindset.
32:08

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Harnessing pressure as a motivating factor can shift an athlete's mindset from fear to opportunity, enhancing performance under stress.
  • Developing mental toughness through strategies like recovery techniques and visualization can significantly improve focus and resilience in competition.

Deep dives

The Role of Pressure in Sports Performance

Pressure plays a crucial role in determining athletic performance, particularly at elite levels. Athletes often encounter emotional and mental forks in the road when under pressure, requiring them to choose paths that either empower or hinder their performance. The ability to harness pressure as a motivating factor can transform an athlete’s mindset from fear and anxiety into one of challenge and opportunity. Embracing pressure effectively enables athletes to apply their strengths, leading to enhanced confidence and competitive edge.

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