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What is Mental Training?

4/18/2017

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Over the last few weeks, I’ve gotten this question more than I usually do. I don’t know if it’s a new-found interest in the field, or that I’ve been more in contact with people than usual. I’m going to use the April post to explain what I do and how it can help others. Mental training is another name for applied sport psychology. Mental training is the education and implementation of skills and techniques that can aid in athletic and personal performance. What are these skills? I’m glad you asked! These are skills such as attention and focus, goal setting and attainment, self-talk, self-awareness, imagery, leadership, communication, and building mental toughness.

I work with teams, individuals, and small groups to develop these skills and more. Mental training creates a space for athletes and coaches to focus on the mental side of the game and make gains here alongside physical gains. Not only does it give athletes and coaches a chance to get mentally engaged in athletics, but also work through any concerns they may have as individuals or as a team that is effecting athletic performance. Mental training services are like having an athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach for the mental side of athletics. It is both proactive and reactive in a sense that skills and techniques are developed before they are needed as well as executed in reaction to different situations.

I will also like to point out what I cannot do as far as mental training services. Some professionals in the mental training field have a background and licensure as mental health professionals (therapists, counselors, etc.) or psychologists with a specialization in sport psychology. My background is strictly in the field of sport psychology (performance psychology). While I focus solely on athletic performance, that does not mean I neglect different aspects of life that can influence athletic performance such as school, life, family, etc. I do not work with athletes for pervasive or clinical concerns such depression, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder. I am not trained to do so and understand and know my boundaries as a professional. I refer athletes to professionals that can help them work through these concerns. This is something I’ve very OK with because I know what I can and cannot do to help an athlete. If there is something I cannot do, I will make sure that I can get the athlete in contact with someone who is qualified to do so.

Hopefully, more people and programs will implement full time mental training programs alongside athletic training, strength and conditioning, and nutritional programs. I’ve had conversations where the need or importance of mental training is acknowledged, but not implemented. There are various reasons for this, but I do think that sooner than later, more and more programs and individuals will find the resources to implement mental training programs. When you’re ready, mental training professionals will be there to help get things going.
 
#FlexThatMentalMuscle 
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Luck, Preparation, and Athletics 

3/19/2017

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Luck is defined as, “success or failure apparently brought on by chance rather than one’s own actions” (the Googles, 2017). Preparation is defined as, “the action or process of making ready or being made ready for use or consideration” (the Googles, 2017). These two forces are thought to be hard at work in athletics. Luck is sent to athletes before tryouts, championships, and drafts. Preparation is a major key to success. As we celebrate the “Luck of the Irish” this weekend, let’s take a look at how luck and preparation influence athletics.
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People say “Good luck!” as a nice gesture to wish someone well on an endeavor. It’s a habit. When someone wishes luck on another person, it’s sending them extra support from sources outside of the person. So if someone wishes someone else luck, does it mean the person assumes they are not prepared and need outside help? Most of the time, no. It’s what people say! It’s a well wish. It’s not bad at all. At the same time, what is someone supposed to say if they know the person is prepared and doesn’t need luck? “Go get ‘em!”, “You’re so prepared!”, or maybe “Preparation is key!”? There’s no need for finding a new well wish after reading this article, wishing someone “Good luck” is still the way to go.

In athletics, preparation and control go hand and hand. Preparation takes time, dedication, and discipline. These are all things that people can control. Athletes and coaches want the most amount of control over their success, growth, and athletic career. Preparation influences all of this and more. By putting in the work to prepare, there little need for luck.  Luck is outside of anyone’s control. Luck is the oldest YOLO in the book. Now, is a little luck a bad thing? Of course not! Sometimes luck can bring about an opportunity that otherwise would not have happened. Luck can bring someone off the bench. Luck could end a rain storm right before the game is called. At the same time, luck shouldn’t be the only driving force behind your success. Whatever luck may bring, it’s important to be prepared for it. Rather than looking at it as luck vs. preparation, maybe we can look at both concepts as a part-time tag team. If luck is on your side, your preparation will help you make the most of the situation. We should all be prepared for any good luck that may come our way. Hope you enjoyed your St. Patrick’s Day weekend!

#FlexThatMentalMuscle
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