There are two ways to become more resilient: one by talking to yourself, the other by retraining your brain.
If you've suffered a major failure,answer is "Building Resilience .
" Talk to yourself. Give yourself a cognitive intervention and counter defeatist thinking with an optimistic attitude. Challenge your downbeat thinking and replace it with a positive outlook.”
But, fortunately, major failures come along rarely in life.
What about bouncing back from the more frequent annoying screwups, minor setbacks and irritating upsets that are routine in any leader's life?
Resilience is, again, the answer — but with a different flavor.
You need to retrain your brain.
The brain has a very different mechanism for bouncing back from the cumulative toll of daily hassles.
And with a little effort, you can upgrade its ability to snap back from life's downers.
Fun Science that will help your endurance performanceStephen Magness
A hodge podge of random studies exploring motivation, willpower, recovery, and even a few studies on sex... Basically a what is cool in the world of exercise science that actually applied to training athletes.
http://www.ScienceofRunning.com
There are two ways to become more resilient: one by talking to yourself, the other by retraining your brain.
If you've suffered a major failure,answer is "Building Resilience .
" Talk to yourself. Give yourself a cognitive intervention and counter defeatist thinking with an optimistic attitude. Challenge your downbeat thinking and replace it with a positive outlook.”
But, fortunately, major failures come along rarely in life.
What about bouncing back from the more frequent annoying screwups, minor setbacks and irritating upsets that are routine in any leader's life?
Resilience is, again, the answer — but with a different flavor.
You need to retrain your brain.
The brain has a very different mechanism for bouncing back from the cumulative toll of daily hassles.
And with a little effort, you can upgrade its ability to snap back from life's downers.
Fun Science that will help your endurance performanceStephen Magness
A hodge podge of random studies exploring motivation, willpower, recovery, and even a few studies on sex... Basically a what is cool in the world of exercise science that actually applied to training athletes.
http://www.ScienceofRunning.com
Under mentioned five simple exercises can help you recognize, and start to shift, the mind-sets that limit your potential as a leader.
1. Find your strengths
2. Practice the pause
3. Forge trust
4. Choose your questions wisely
5. Make time to recover
Living the Full-life
What is living the full-life? Consider the three basic pillars of positive psychology—the pleasant life, the good life, and the meaningful life. Living the successful blend of these three pillars is considered living the full-life.
The aim of positive psychology is to scientifically study the successful blend of these pillars. Using the readings for this module, the University online library resources, and the Internet, research the three pillars of positive psychology.
Based on your research, respond to the following:
The 4th Way - Using Aikido for Human and Business PerformanceGerald Lopez
Aikido is a peaceful martial art that can also be used for stress management, for building human resilience and for resolving conflicts. MindBody Dojo™ offers training on using the principles of Aikido for self-confidence, resourcefulness, empathy, courage and leadership.
Summary
Pilates exercise is popular in the general population [1] the clinical and fitness areas (Segal, 2004). The use of the Pilates at least at the end of
training to improve dancers flexibility and trunk mobility was suggested [2]. Flexibility and joints mobility as well as core strengthening is the focal
point of the Pilates exercises [3]. Hamstrimg muscle elasticity is important in many functional and athletic activities, because dancers must show high
amplitude movements with lower extremities and trunk [3]. Aerobic Gymnastics athletes continuously perform complex movements following music
patterns, which require high levels of fitness, strength, flexibility and range of motion in joins [4]. In spite of a growth in gymnastic modalities, we didn’t
find research about Pilates effect to young age Aerobic Gymnastics athletes. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in Aerobic Gymnastics athletes
hamstrings muscles elasticity and trunk mobility after 7 and 14 weeks of Pilates exercises.
Abstract
The goal of any practice or physical education class is typically to enhance and optimize performance in the skills of interest. However, it is sometimes
difficult for students to have a sound understanding of the movement tasks and how to alter their performance based on verbal feedback alone. With
access to portable electronic devices growing rapidly, it is not uncommon for most people to have a cell phone or tablet readily available. Instead of
banishing these devices from the facility, there may be an opportunity to use these devices to better convey points of interest from the instructor to the
student. A single Physical Education class was used to trial the use of video feedback combined with the traditional verbal feedback following a forward
roll sequence for grade. After reviewing the video footage and receiving verbal feedback from their instructor, students not only improved their scores
but also gained confidence in their abilities. The use of personal electronic devices can allow students to see what the instructor sees in order to optimize
their performance. By allowing such devices in the classroom (whether it’s the instructor’s or students’) for instructional purposes only, students can
begin to identify and correct any flaws to their routine or movement skills as early as possible.
More Related Content
Similar to Performance Psychology Case Study of Elite Show Jumper: Crimson Publishers
Under mentioned five simple exercises can help you recognize, and start to shift, the mind-sets that limit your potential as a leader.
1. Find your strengths
2. Practice the pause
3. Forge trust
4. Choose your questions wisely
5. Make time to recover
Living the Full-life
What is living the full-life? Consider the three basic pillars of positive psychology—the pleasant life, the good life, and the meaningful life. Living the successful blend of these three pillars is considered living the full-life.
The aim of positive psychology is to scientifically study the successful blend of these pillars. Using the readings for this module, the University online library resources, and the Internet, research the three pillars of positive psychology.
Based on your research, respond to the following:
The 4th Way - Using Aikido for Human and Business PerformanceGerald Lopez
Aikido is a peaceful martial art that can also be used for stress management, for building human resilience and for resolving conflicts. MindBody Dojo™ offers training on using the principles of Aikido for self-confidence, resourcefulness, empathy, courage and leadership.
Summary
Pilates exercise is popular in the general population [1] the clinical and fitness areas (Segal, 2004). The use of the Pilates at least at the end of
training to improve dancers flexibility and trunk mobility was suggested [2]. Flexibility and joints mobility as well as core strengthening is the focal
point of the Pilates exercises [3]. Hamstrimg muscle elasticity is important in many functional and athletic activities, because dancers must show high
amplitude movements with lower extremities and trunk [3]. Aerobic Gymnastics athletes continuously perform complex movements following music
patterns, which require high levels of fitness, strength, flexibility and range of motion in joins [4]. In spite of a growth in gymnastic modalities, we didn’t
find research about Pilates effect to young age Aerobic Gymnastics athletes. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in Aerobic Gymnastics athletes
hamstrings muscles elasticity and trunk mobility after 7 and 14 weeks of Pilates exercises.
Abstract
The goal of any practice or physical education class is typically to enhance and optimize performance in the skills of interest. However, it is sometimes
difficult for students to have a sound understanding of the movement tasks and how to alter their performance based on verbal feedback alone. With
access to portable electronic devices growing rapidly, it is not uncommon for most people to have a cell phone or tablet readily available. Instead of
banishing these devices from the facility, there may be an opportunity to use these devices to better convey points of interest from the instructor to the
student. A single Physical Education class was used to trial the use of video feedback combined with the traditional verbal feedback following a forward
roll sequence for grade. After reviewing the video footage and receiving verbal feedback from their instructor, students not only improved their scores
but also gained confidence in their abilities. The use of personal electronic devices can allow students to see what the instructor sees in order to optimize
their performance. By allowing such devices in the classroom (whether it’s the instructor’s or students’) for instructional purposes only, students can
begin to identify and correct any flaws to their routine or movement skills as early as possible.
Introduction
There is no uniform conception in the literature about what an emotion is and consists of [1,2]. Consensually, essential aspects have been considered to understand emotion: the presence in emotions of physiological changes, the mobilisation of bodily actions or “tendencies of action” and the subjective experience that involves; and emotion has been approached as a result of a system of analysis and processing of information. But taking each of the elements indicated separately has not favoured knowledge of emotion being presented in an integrated manner [3]. Moreover, the investigators have been supported in their work by different a theoretical orientation, which makes it even more difficult to integrate all the knowledge. One perspective that tackles this question is the theories of Embodiment, which have their origin in the French philosopher Merleau-Ponty (1908-1961), according to which psychological processes are based on bodily states. From the perspective of Embodiment, perceiving, recognizing and interpreting an emotion in ourselves or in others requires information from bodily systems. In this way “experiencing emotional states affects somatovisceral and motoric systems” and vice versa. In other words, “bodily states have effects on how emotional information is processed” [4].
Abstract
The aim of this article is to know at which level a club is more efficient and how promotion and relegation affects technical efficiency. The sample consists of clubs that played at least one season in the First Division in Spanish Professional Football League between seven seasons. The method for calculating technical efficiency is Data Envelopment Analysis and this is combined with the study of trend and stability to ensure the correct choice of model and to check the robustness of the results. Our conclusion is that teams that have promoted and relegated are more efficient. These clubs improve their technical efficiency after being relegated and staying in the lower category. It is necessary to pursue its optimal positioning depending on its sporting potential and its economic financial capacity but not necessarily the promotion. We suggest that the Spanish Football League review the conditions and format to promotion.
Abstract
During the lifespan, there are multiple factors influence the longevity including genotype, metabolism, physiology, sociodemographic and environmental factors, nutritional and lifestyle habits. Nutrition during the life time has an effect on the health status. Dietary indexes, certain dietary patterns and dietary guidelines have been used for analysing dietary pattern and life expectancy relationship in many studies. Dietary pattern has an important effect on longevity. The cohort study results indicate that diet quality and Medittarenean diet have potential effects on longevity. The important effects of nutrition on longevity related with quality, quantity, frequency, variety and emotional satisfaction. Therefore, nutritional strategies that provide clear benefits for ageing linked with both physiological and psychological functions to maintain life quality. The aspiration is not only to “live longer” but to “live better,” and to maintain optimal qual¬ity of life during the later stages of life.
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study was to develop test methodology that would allow for an estimation of the relative contributions of buoyancy and hydrodynamics on swim performance.
Methods: One trained swimmer completed three familiarization trials followed by eighteen randomized swim sessions where each condition no wetsuit (NS), low buoyancy wetsuit (LBW), high buoyancy wetsuit (HBW), NS plus pull buoy (NSB), and HBW matched to buoy buoyancy (HBW+) were tested four times each. Buoyancy for all conditions was measured via hydrostatic weighing system. All data are presented as means+SD and change scores (95% CI).
Results: Coefficients of variations with each condition were about 2%. DB decreased by 2.29% for LBW, 2.80% for HBW, 1.93% for NSB, and 1.96% for HBW+, which resulted in an increase in buoyancy lift force. LBW and HBW improved 800-yd swim times over NS -70.6 (-86.2, -55.0) sec, and -69.1 (-84.0, -54.3) sec, respectively. Swim times for 100-yd were also similar between LBW, -9.4 (-10.7, -8.1) sec, and HBW, -7.9 (-11.4, -4.5) sec. Neither stroke rate nor total strokes differed between LBW and HBW, though both appeared significantly lower than NS. In HBW+ trials, the difference in 800- yd and 100-yd times between NSB and NS was -25.2 (-60.3, 10.0) and -1.7 (-19.6, -16.3), respectively, while HBW+ vs NSB 800-yd and 100-yd time differences were -26.6 (-28.3, -24.9) and -5.7 (18.9, 7.5).
Conclusion: The outlined protocol can produce reliable results. These data support earlier assertions that buoyancy may reach a point of diminishing returns, and also indicate that wetsuit hydrodynamics play larger role in swim performance as velocity increases. The protocol outlined could aid in optimal wetsuit design without the need for advanced testing equipment.
Abstract
The present investigation has been conducted to find out the relationship of selected motor fitness tests to percentage of body fat and reaction time (visual) in mid level male footballer players volunteered to participate in this study.16 students of 15 to 18 years of age and having training in BKSP, were recruited as the subjects. The data on the variables such as percentage of body-fat (BF), speed, agility and reaction-time (RT) were collected by using standard tools and techniques. Each subject’s speed, agility, and reaction time were measured, and the data analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and paired t tests (using SPSS-16). There were no meaningful correlations between reaction time and speed in the subjects .There was a negative correlation between percentage of body fat and reaction time.
Abstract
Go to
The motivation and habits of rock climbers were investigated using mixed methodology in order to better understand exercise participation. Forty-one patrons of a south eastern United States climbing gym completed a demographics form and adapted Sports Motivation Scale II (SMS-II), while thirty-six participants completed the Rock Climbing Motivation Survey (RCMS). Those with higher climbing frequency reported significantly higher levels of identified regulation than individuals who climbed less often (p=0.011). According to a thematic analysis, exercise balance and personal growth and challenges were the most commonly reported themes of motivation for rock climbing. The most frequently cited barriers were injury and time. Participants reported external motivators to climb upon initiation of the sport, but appeared to rely more on internal motivators to continue climbing. These findings, which are supported by current literature on physical activity, may be applicable to promoting exercise participation and maintenance.
Introduction: Partial or complete aplasia of the posterior arches of the atlas is a well-documented anomaly but a relatively rare condition caused by a defect in their closure. This condition is usually asymptomatic so most are diagnosed incidentally.
Case report: We report the case of a patient who presents a defect of the posterior arch of atlas.
Conclusion: There is a variety of the congenital defects of the arch of the atlas. Further studies are required on these lesions in order to take possible protection measures against trauma, and the selection between conservative or surgical treatment.
Abstract
The rehabilitation counsellor works with people with disabilities to assist them in ways to improve their quality of life and vocational outcomes. The types of disabilities among people are diverse, multifaceted, and vary in severity. One such disability group is individuals with cancer. Persons with cancer account for a minimal percentage of the total successfully closed vocational rehabilitation cases. Over the past few decades, the prognosis of many types of cancer has improved, with a resulting increase in the number of cancer survivors who have the ability to resume work after treatment and therapy. This article provides a comprehensive review of rehabilitation counsellors’ involvement in enhancing the lives of individuals with cancer including the employment means, Psychological Impact, and effective interventions to employ these goals.
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine and compare the acute effects of basketball-specific fatigue on muscular stiffness and reactive strength in male adolescent basketball players of two age categories. Reactive strength, expressed by means of the reactive strength index (RSI), and leg stiffness (LS) as mechanisms associated with the risk of ACL injury were measured in eleven players of the U16 category (age 16.1±0.4 years; body height 185±6.5cm; body mass 74.3±9.9kg) and ten players of the U18 category (age 17.7±0.4 years; body height 187±5.7cm; body mass 79.7±7.4kg) pre and post simulated basketball match play (SBFP28). RSI was determined by a drop jump test, LS by a 20 sub-maximal two-legged hopping test. No significant effects of SBFP28 on the monitored parameters were observed with the exception of RSI in U16 (p=0.013, r=0.53). Similarly, there were no significant differences in the fatigue-related responses to SBFP28 for RSI and LS between the age groups. These results indicated that irrespective of age, the stabilization function of the knee muscles was not impaired and consequently the risk of ACL injury was not increased.
Abstract
Background: Physiotherapy is multi-dimensional and can treat a vast variety of conditions, ranging from musculoskeletal aches, arthritis, joints problems, paraplegia, hemiplegic, sports injuries and frozen shoulder etc. Apart from culture competency and core medical knowledge a physiotherapist must be competent enough in all physiotherapist medical conditions where physical therapy plays a vital role. This study aims to identify the frequency of common clinical conditions among client presented at Habib Physiotherapy Complex (HPC), Hayatabad during 2010.
Methodology: This was a descriptive study; the data were retrieved from record register of HPC (Indoor and Outdoor patients) recording their presenting complaints and known diagnoses. Data was collected on a structure grid. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 15 and presented in term of frequency and percentages.
Result: The majority of clients (1280 (29%)) were suffering from low back pain. The second common condition 891(20%) was osteoarthritis of the knee joint and cerebrovascular accidents 824(18.4%), while cervical pain accounted for 734(16.4%). The rest of clinical conditions included; frozen shoulder, pelvic inflammation, cerebral palsy, polio effected and paraplegia.
Conclusion: The Study reveals the occurrence of Osteoarthritis (Low Back, Cervical Pain, and Knee Joints Pain) were the most common condition which deteriorated the performance of common individuals in our society.
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a dimeric protein found throughout the brain, promotes the survival of nerve cells by playing a role in the growth, maturation, and maintenance of cells [1]. Along with supporting the survival of existing neurons, BDNF encourages differentiation and growth of new neurons and synapses [2,3]. In the brain the hippocampus, cortex, and basal forebrain, which are vital to learning, memory, and higher thinking, are all locations where BDNF is active [4]. A number of stimuli have been found to increase BDNF gene regulation including light in the visual cortex, osmotic in the hypothalamus, electrical in the hippocampus, and exercise in the hippocampus [5].
Introduction
Achilles Tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the human body is formed by fusion of the tendinous portion of calf muscles; the gastrocnemius and soleus [1,2]. Achilles tendon can largely with stand tensional forces of locomotion. The incidence of Achilles tendon injuries has increased considerably during the pastdecade [1-5]. Such injuries account for 45% of all sports related injuries among athletes and general public. Achilles tendon complaints generally represent most tendon problems in any population and can be divided into “Spontaneous ruptures” (excessive loadinginduced injury/degeneration of tendon without any predisposing systemic diseases); and “Overuse injuries” (traced to sports and exercise-related overuse). Sometimes, a systemic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis may manifest with Achilles tendon symptoms, but this represents only a minority (~2%) of all cases [1,6].
Abstract
Physical inactivity challenge has been addressed from different approaches in recent years due to the negative effects of its consequences at public health level. However, the number of people who do not perform sufficient physical activity on a daily basis is not decreasing. Surprisingly, it is not common to involve the fitness & wellness industry in interventions to address inactivity in leisure time despite the industry aim to promote a healthy lifestyle through physical exercise and its resources. Whilst the industry seems not to be interested in collaborating with public bodies and research centres. In this manuscript, we discuss the reasons why this industry should get involved in the effort for addressing physical inactivity using community-based intervention
Abstract
Frequent Knee Locking is an incapacitating condition that requires a thorough clinical, radiological and arthroscopic evaluation. The common causes are meniscal injury followed by torn anterior cruciate ligament and osteochondral loose bodies in the joint space. Our case describes an unusual case of frequent left knee locking. After clinical and radiological examinations the provisional diagnoses of medial meniscus tear was done. A diagnostic arthroscopy of the left knee revealed normal meniscus, cruciates and a medial patello femoral plica slipping into the patellofemoral joint causing the locking sensation. The plica was resected. At 6 month follow up there is no recurrence of symptoms.
Abstract
Healthy lifestyle can be defined as controlling all behaviours affecting the health of the individual, managing daily activities to improve health and reducing disease risks. Lifestyle behaviours affect disease risk and life quality. The development of healthy lifestyle behaviours, especially nutrition and Physical Activity is associated with type 2 diabetes, cardio-metabolic diseases and cancer risks. World Health Organization defines life quality as “individual’s perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns”. Therefore, healthy lifestyle behaviours, especially nutrition and physical activity are related to life quality. Measuring the risk of chronic disease associated with diet quality, healthy lifestyle and life quality is very important in terms of improving public health [1-3].
Abstract
Reductions in O2 delivery (blood flow x O2 content) to contracting skeletal muscle can have adverse effects on physical performance. In this regard, factors that reduce blood flow can promote fatigue by reducing muscle force and/or attenuating the removal of metabolic by products of contraction [1]. Conversely, interventions that enhance O2 delivery at a given work intensity could potentially reduce muscle fatigue or delay its onset, leading to improved Physical Performance. Thus, identification and investigation of such interventions represents an important focus of research in sports science. One possible approach involves the study of dietary factors that may act as ergogenic aids via their actions on cardiovascular function. For example, acute supplementation with beet root juice, which is high in nitrates, has been shown to enhance cardiac output and oxygen utilization and reduce vascular resistance and blood pressure at a given sub-maximal work intensity [2,3]. These effects are indicative of increased O2 delivery to skeletal muscle.
Abstract
Sport behaviour in any situation is culturally defined. The anthropological study of sports can provide a viewpoint of human culture in real sense of the word. Sports as a recreational aspect of culture hold a variety of different meanings across culture. It has been observed that, sports have emerged as a primary area of controversy about men’s and women’s roles. It has also widely argued that women’s sport has changed a little in the present century. Anthropologists considered this issue that sports are the areas where gender inequalities are strongly evident. The present study is the preliminary observations on the relationship between sports and gender along with how the participation in sports can be invigorating and personally empowering experience for women. It finally throws light on how sports are one of the most important issues in gender inequality
Mats André Zuccarello Aasen, commonly known as Mats Zuccarello, was born on September 1, 1987, in
Oslo, Norway. He grew up in the bustling neighborhood of Løren, where his passion for ice hockey began
at a young age. His mother, Anita Zuccarello, is of Italian descent, and his father, Glenn Aasen, is
Norwegian. This multicultural background played a significant role in shaping his identity and versatility
on and off the ice.
Results for LtCol Thomas Jasper, Marine, for the 2010 Marine Corps Marathon held October 31, 2010, marking the 35th annual marathon known as "The People's Marathon."
An impressive finishing time of 3:46:39, placing 324th in the Male division ages 40-44.
Euro Cup fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform www.worldwideticketsandhospitality. Fans can book Slovenia Vs Denmark Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Euro Cup fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform www.worldwideticketsandhospitality. Fans can book Poland Vs Netherlands Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Euro Cup international supporters can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform Worldwideticketsandhospitality.com. Followers can book Portugal Vs Czechia Tickets on our website at sale prices.
Spain's Euro Cup 2024 Selections and Croatia's Group of Death Challenge.docxEuro Cup 2024 Tickets
Chelsea's Marc Cucurella is one of only three Premier League players included in Spain's preliminary Euro Cup 2024 squad as the Tottenham star with 11 goal contributions is overlooked
Spain vs Croatia Date, venue and match preview ahead of Euro Cup clash as Mod...Eticketing.co
We offer Euro Cup Tickets to admirers who can get Spain vs Croatia Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Spain vs Italy Spain at Euro Cup 2024 Group, Fixtures, Players to Watch and M...Eticketing.co
Euro Cup 2024 fans worldwide can book Spain vs Italy Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup Germany Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Euro Cup international supporters can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform Worldwideticketsandhospitality.com. Followers can book Turkey Vs Portugal Tickets on our website at sale prices.
Euro Cup fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform www.worldwideticketsandhospitality. Fans can book Belgium Vs Romania Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Turkey's Euro 2024 Squad Overview and Transfer Speculation.docxEuro Cup 2024 Tickets
Vincenzo Montella has announced a preliminary 35-man squad for Turkey ahead of the UEFA Euro 2024, which includes three Serie A players, Hakan Calhanoglu, Kenan Yildiz, and Zeki Celik
Boletin de la I Copa Panamericana de Voleibol Femenino U17 Guatemala 2024Judith Chuquipul
holaesungusto.- Boletín final de la I Copa Panamericana de Voleibol Femenino U17 - Ciudad de Guatemala 2024 que se realizó del 27 de mayo al 01 de julio, en el Domo Polideportivo Zona 13.
Fuente: norceca.net
Denmark vs England England Euro Cup squad guide Fixtures, predictions and bes...Eticketing.co
We offer UEFA Euro 2024 Tickets to admirers who can get Denmark vs England Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing. co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Euro Cup fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform www.worldwideticketsandhospitality. Fans can book Denmark Vs England Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
2. How to cite this article: Cíara L. Performance Psychology Case Study of Elite Show Jumper. Res Inves Sports Med. 1(3). RISM.000515: 2017.
DOI: 10.31031/RISM.2017.01.000515
Research & Investigations in Sports Medicine
2/2
Res Inves Sports Med
him at competition venues. Whilst we previously identified that a
good deal of this tension had built up because of a combination of
poor planning and poor nutrition issues, it was also evident that
Jack could benefit from developing skills for managing stress and
tension.
Phase one
Withthisinmind,wewentthroughaneducationphasewhereby
I taught Jack about the concept of stress so that he understood what
exactly happens when the stress/tension/anxiety reaction occurs,
we identified his triggers for stress, we looked at his own reactions
to stress, and the consequences of when stress and tension over
powered him. The most interesting thing to emerge from these
discussions with Jack was that for him the competition itself was
never a stressor; he felt excited but confident about his actually
performance, with a few nerves slipping in when he got into a jump
off against the clock. Instead the greatest source of stress for Jack
was the feeling of rushing, of having no time to sit and think about
how he would ride this horse as opposed to the last one, of worrying
if his next horse would be ready for him to go into the practice arena
when he had finished on this horse [4].
Phase two
The next phase of this intervention was to introduce the
psychological skills for coping with stress. The first of these skills
was actually dealt with in the first intervention as described above,
in that through Countering and Reframing Jack learned to develop
useful thinking, planning and behaviour specifically in terms of
sharing the workload and looking after him by taking time for meals
and eating the right food. A second skill that I used to help Jack
feel calm when it came to riding each horse was the introduction
of a pre-round time out. This would take the place of the frantic
racing around that usually preceded Jack sitting up on a horse to
go and jump. During this ten minute time slot Jack agreed that
he would go to a quiet place, possibly the cab of the lorry, and he
would sit quietly and mentally prepare to ride the next horse in the
next round. Giving himself this time to clear his mind of irrelevant
thoughts, to think about the job at hand, and to re-group energy
wise, allowed Jack to get himself into the right frame of mind before
he sat up on each and every horse. He felt that this would give him
the chance to do justice in each round, as now he would have his full
mind on the job rather than half his mind being somewhere else.
The third skill that I taught Jack during this phase was the
skill of relaxation. Having explored several options, Jack showed a
preference for the Centering technique, one of many strategies used
for quickly regaining control during competition [5]. The reason
that he liked this exercise so much was that it was quick to master
and once mastered it was effective in an instant, but also it served
as a relaxation tool to lower excess tension in his body, and as a tool
to refocus attention, so it was dual purpose.
Phase three
The third phase of the intervention was the practice phase,
whereby with monitoring Jack moved from practising Centering
sitting quietly in a chair at home, to sitting on a hay bale in the
stable yard, to sitting watching a round at a noisy show, right up
until he was able to centre as he sat on his horse.
Phase four
The fourth phase of the intervention was the evaluation phase,
when each of the tools designed to help Jack manage stress and
tension were assessed in terms of their effectiveness [6]. For this
purpose I used a scale of 0-10, with 0 being ‘not working at all’ and
10 being ‘working really well’, and Jack used the scale to assess
his perception of the effectiveness of the skills he had learned.
Over time modifications were made until the ratings for each skill
(helpful thinking & planning, pre-round time out, and Centering)
improved and ultimately Jack reported feeling fully in control and
able to be calm when he sat up on a horse before competition.
The effectiveness of the overall programme was assessed by
using the concept of Butler and Hardy’s Performance Profile (1992)
to gauge Jack’s feeling about where he lay in relation to the skills
needed for success in his sport [7].
Resultant Performance Impact
Jack won three Grand Prix competitions on the international
circuit the same year that we worked together and his wins on
the domestic circuit increased. He reported having much more
consistent performances, with more clear rounds and more wins
in jump offs. He often had not one or even two, but up to three
horses with double clears in one competition. He had not yet made
a Nations Cup team but he knew now that he was giving himself the
absolute best chance to be considered for one.
References
1. Weinberg RS, Williams JM (2001) Integrating and implementing a
psychological skills training programme. In: Williams J (Ed.), Applied
Sport Psychology, Personal Growth to Peak Performance. McGraw-Hill,
New York, USA, pp. 425-457.
2. Bell KE (1983) Championship thinking: The athlete’s guide to winning
performances in all sports. Englewood Cliffs, Prentice-Hall, USA.
3. Zinsser N, Bunker L, Williams JM (2001) Cognitive techniques for
building confidence and enhancing performance. In: Williams J (Ed.),
Applied Sport Psychology, Personal Growth to Peak Performance.
McGraw-Hill, New York, USA, pp. 349-381.
4. Nideffer RM (1992) Psyched to Win. Champaign, Leisure Press, Illinois,
USA.
5. Butler RJ, Hardy L (1992) The Performance Profile: Theory and
Application. The Sport Psychologist 6(3): 253-264.
6. McBane S (1987) Behaviour Problems in Horses. Understanding
Nervousness in Horse and Rider, JA Allen, London, UK.
7. Spielberger CS (1966) Theory and research on anxiety. Academic Press,
New York, USA, pp. 3-20.