Fitness watch: Understanding what causes stress in sport and ways in which elite athletes can cope

.....But there are many ways athletes can ensure they respond positively under pressure. Positive stress responses can be promoted by encouraging feelings of confidence and control through the language we and others (such as coaches or parents) use. Psychologists can also help athletes change how they see their physiological responses – such as helping them see a higher heart rate as excitement, rather than nerves.

Psychological skills – such as visualisation – can also help decrease our physiological responses to threat. This may involve creating a mental picture of a time when the athlete performed well, or picturing themselves doing well in the future. This can help create feelings of confidence and control over the stressful event......

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Bethany`s Notes: How an athlete responds to the stress of performing, whether in practice or during competition can impact both their physical and emotional well-being.