193 How to Help Footballers Get Out Of Their Own Way #BITESIZE

In today’s short bite sized episode, taken from episode #093 of the Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast, I was joined by prominent Sports Psychologist, Dan Abrahams.  We discussed why athletes can struggle to repeat their training performances in competitive matches and events.  Dan goes on to share his thoughts why this is the case, some tools he uses to help clients and specifically the concept of a game face which arguably every athlete or player should have in their toolkit.

Key Learning Points:

• Competitive events and matches can mean different things to different athletes with a range of responses such as: playing in an inhibited way, having a rise in intensity levels or displaying a drop off in intensity.
• Unhelpful thoughts, feelings and emotions can often be present for athletes.
• “I’ve got to perform”, “I must…” language often fuels pressure.
• Getting comfortable being uncomfortable is very helpful.
• A game face is a practical solution which takes into account sports psychology theories such as self efficacy theory and the individual zone of optimal functioning.

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