#43 - Dr Mike Grevlos - Psychology, Motivation, Neuroscience
Jul 21, 2023
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Dr Mike Grevlos, a professor of Psychology, talks about the misconceptions in golf psychology, the benefits of meditation for golfers, age-related changes in neuroplasticity, and the significance of focus during practice. They also discuss working with athletes, the accuracy of wearable technology, applying meditation to golf, understanding motivational vulnerabilities, the nature versus nurture debate, and optimizing practice sessions for effective learning.
Motivation is a dynamic aspect of the mental game in golf that can be explored and personalized to improve performance.
Perspective plays a vital role in golf, and shifting one's mindset to understand external influences can alleviate mental burden and boost confidence.
Improving the mental game in golf involves breaking down different shot phases, personalizing routines, and deep analysis to uncover underlying issues and develop effective strategies for improvement.
Deep dives
Exploring the Mind and Performance
In this podcast episode, Dr. Mike Grevelis, a professor of psychology and a performance coach, discusses various topics related to the mind and performance. He highlights the misconceptions in golf psychology, the value of meditation for golfers, the changes in neural plasticity with age, and the significance of focus during practice. Dr. Grevelis emphasizes that motivation and neuroscience are essential fields to understand when it comes to sports psychology. He also cautions against the pseudo neuroscience and oversimplification of concepts like shutting down the prefrontal cortex or utilizing brainwaves. Furthermore, he delves into the applicability of meditation to golf and explains the importance of individualizing mental game techniques. Overall, Dr. Grevelis provides valuable insights into the interplay between the mind and performance in golf.
Understanding Motivation in Golf
Dr. Mike Grevelis emphasizes the significance of motivation in golf and the impact it has on performance. He highlights that motivation is not a static state, but rather a dynamic and shifting aspect of the mental game. Dr. Grevelis explores how understanding a golfer's motivation and their personal history with the game can uncover valuable insights. He shares a case study of a professional golfer who did not enjoy golf and felt pressured due to high expectations placed on his talent. By exploring the golfer's motivation, Dr. Grevelis helped him find ways to care about the sport and develop genuine interest, leading to improved performance.
The Role of Perspective in Golf
Dr. Mike Grevelis discusses the importance of perspective in golf and its impact on performance. Using an example of a college player, he explains how the pressure and expectations placed on individuals due to their perceived talent can affect their mindset. By shifting their perspective and understanding the external influences, such as parental or coaching pressure, golfers can alleviate the mental burden and perform at their best. Dr. Grevelis highlights the significance of individualized approaches and the need to explore perspectives, as this can have a profound impact on a golfer's confidence and success.
Exploring Techniques and Deep Analysis
Dr. Mike Grevelis delves into the techniques and analyses involved in improving the mental game in golf. He emphasizes the importance of breaking down the different phases of a shot, such as assessing the conditions, priming, and performing. Dr. Grevelis focuses on understanding a golfer's current routine and explores various ways to enhance their mental processes within each phase. He encourages an exploratory mindset, allowing golfers to find what works best for them individually. Dr. Grevelis also highlights the significance of perspectives, deep analysis, and discussions to uncover underlying issues and develop strategies for improvement.
The role of genetics in skill development
The podcast delves into the nature versus nurture debate regarding talent and genetics. While some believe that genetics play a major role in skill development and fine motor skills, the speaker expresses skepticism based on their extensive research. They argue that genetics alone do not determine an individual's level of performance or ability to acquire skills. Instead, they highlight the complex interaction of genes, environment, neuroplasticity, and other factors that contribute to skill development and individual differences in performance.
Neuroplasticity and the impact of age
The podcast discusses the concept of neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to change and learn through experiences. It emphasizes the importance of focus, goal-directed behavior, and the intent to improve in triggering neuroplastic processes. While some assume that neuroplasticity declines with age, the speaker argues that it remains intact throughout life, although it may be slower in older individuals. They suggest that older learners can still make significant improvements and changes, but it's crucial to approach learning with concentration, purpose, and frequent retrieval practice. The podcast encourages golfers of all ages to adopt effective practice habits and not underestimate their ability to learn and improve.
Dr Mike Grevlos is a professor of Psychology at the University of Sioux Falls in South Dakota. He teaches courses in sport psychology, motivation and emotion, and behavioral neuroscience.
He has also served as a motivation and performance coach to golfers and other athletes for over 20 years.
In this episode we cover a lot of topics related to the mind and performance, misconceptions Dr Grevlos sees in the golf psychology world, the value of meditation for golfers, how neuroplasticity changes with age, and the key role of focus during practice for making changes in how we move.
Just a reminder before we get started that Fit For Golf has it’s own app with programs to suit all levels of golf and fitness. There are options for at home and at the gym, and if you’re skeptical about getting started there are workouts of just 5 minutes in duration!
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Now to the interview!
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