Science Weekly
How Team GB’s psychologist gets the athletes mentally ready
Aug 8, 2024
Jess Thom, the lead psychologist for Team GB, dives into the intricate world of athlete mental preparation. She sheds light on techniques like breathing exercises and reframing anxiety that empower athletes under extreme pressure. Thom also discusses the emotional challenges athletes face post-Olympics, including the dreaded 'post-Olympic blues' and transitioning into life beyond sports. Sharing practical tips, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining motivation, like partnering with friends for workouts to stay engaged after the thrill of competition fades.
16:11
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Quick takeaways
- Psychological preparation for athletes focuses on managing anxiety through techniques like cognitive reframing and breathing exercises, enhancing performance under pressure.
- Transitioning from competition to everyday life requires proactive planning and support to ease emotional challenges and foster future career development.
Deep dives
Psychological Preparation for Olympians
Olympic athletes undergo extensive psychological preparation to handle the immense pressure of competing at such a prestigious event. Sports psychologists guide athletes in defining what success means to them, focusing on behaviors that lead to peak performance rather than solely on feelings like confidence. Techniques such as breathing exercises and cognitive reframing help athletes manage nerves and anxiety, enabling them to perform effectively under stress. For example, one athlete learned to reinterpret feelings of anxiety as excitement, allowing her to channel her adrenaline positively during competition.
