Psychological Skills Training - PST

What is it?  PST encompasses techniques (e.g. attentional focus, relaxation, goal setting) that sport psychology consultants use to help individuals acquire and/or enhance those psychological skills necessary for optimal performance (Drugdale & Hodge, 1996).

PST techniques most commonly taught to athletes & coaches;

1. Goal setting, 2. Relaxation, 3. Imagery, 4. Self Talk, 5. Mental Preparation, 6. Attentional Focus and Control, 7. Self Confidence, 8. Ability to handle adversity.

Who should use PST?

Athletes, coaches, professionals &/or anyone seeking to perform at higher levels can gain enhancements to performance through psychological skills training.  Athletes & coach in particular spend exurbanite time and money on the physical aspects of performance.  Research says that individuals seeking high performance should be doing 15 minutes of psychological skills training 3-5 times a week depending on the level of performance (Drugdale & Hodge, 1996).

When should PST be implemented?

It takes time to learn new skills.  Many athletes, coaches and officials report that it can take several months to develop and refine psychological skills.  I believe PST should be implemented early.  At young ages simplified versions should be utilized (Drugdale and Hodge, 1996).  Tiger Woods talks of having vivid dreams of winning major tournaments when he was as young as six.  This is a form of PST.