CSCS Prep: Psychology of Athletic Preparation and Performance
May 22, 2024
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This podcast delves into the psychology of athletic preparation and performance, covering topics like arousal, anxiety, stress, reinforcement, relaxation techniques, skill development practices, and performance feedback for exam study. It emphasizes the significance of sports psychology for NSCA certification exam preparation and offers valuable tips for optimal athletic performance.
Arousal can positively or negatively impact performance, influenced by the intensity of motivation at a specific time.
Coaching methods like reinforcement and punishment can shape athlete behavior, with positive reinforcement increasing the likelihood of repeated positive performance.
Deep dives
Psychological States and Conditions: Arousal, Anxiety, and Stress
Arousal, the intensity of motivation at a point in time, can impact performance positively or negatively based on the situation. Anxiety, a generally negative performance state, includes cognitive and somatic anxiety. Stress results from an imbalance between demands and an individual's ability to respond, which can be distressing or beneficial based on the situation.
Manipulating Coaching Delivery: Reinforcement and Punishment
Coaching methods like reinforcement and punishment influence behavior. Positive reinforcement, praising athletes for good performance, increases the likelihood of repeated positive behavior. Negative reinforcement involves removing something to encourage desired behavior. Conversely, positive punishment adds something to deter unwanted behavior, and negative punishment takes something away to decrease undesired behavior.
Relaxation techniques include diaphragmatic breathing, which helps athletes connect to their breath and achieve a calm state. Progressive muscle relaxation involves tense and relax movements to understand tension and relaxation. Imagery, visualizing performance success, prepares athletes for events and reduces stress. These techniques can aid athletes in managing pre-performance anxiety and stress levels.