Performance Intelligence Podcast Bite Size: The Secret Weapon Elite Athletes Use That Costs Nothing | Prof Adam Nicholls
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Jul 16, 2025 Discover how mental imagery can transform athletic performance by activating muscles and sharpening focus. Prof. Adam Nicholls shares insights into how elite athletes visualize success, leading to measurable gains. Hear fascinating stories of mental rehearsal techniques that boost confidence in high-pressure moments. Learn about the intersection of healthy choices and tailored wellbeing strategies, emphasizing the importance of mental state for peak performance across different sports. This powerful mental tool could be the key to turning good efforts into winning moments!
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Imagery Activates Muscles
- Imagining physical movements activates muscles at a low level similarly to actually performing them.
- This mental activation can enhance strength and muscle recruitment to improve performance.
Mental Reps Aid Match Execution
- A Wallabies player said using imagery made a set play feel like he'd done it a thousand times.
- Mental rehearsal prepared him to execute confidently during the game against England at Twickenham.
Israel Adesanya's Fight Visualization
- UFC fighter Israel Adesanya rehearsed his entire walkout multiple times in his mind the night before a big fight.
- This visualization gave him reassurance and confidence during the championship match.
