Why Sport Psychology?

U.S. Olympic hurdler Lolo Jones

Every athlete is well aware that exercise, training and proper diet will enhance performance, but many don’t understand the role of mental training. While coaches and trainers help the athlete focus on development of the physical game, the sport psychologist is there to provide a mental regimen.

The age old sentiment that one either is or isn’t ‘born tough’ is simply inaccurate. The mind, just like the body, can be made stronger through hard work and discipline.

The first job of the sport psychologist is to pinpoint the unique issues blocking the client from goal attainment, whereupon the proper mental training program can be implemented.

Methods of treatment may include Bio- and Neurofeedback, mental skills training and reaction time training. Clients who learn to lift their ‘mental weights’ and utilize the tools offered during sessions will achieve marked improvement.

The benefits of sport psychology are no secret to scores of professional and Olympic athletes all over the world, but the advantages are really applicable to athletes of all ages and skill levels. No one is too young or old to learn to practice healthier mental habits and sharpen their mental skills.

When the mind is as strongly developed as the body, the athlete has the best possible chance to realize maximum potential.