Arousal Flashcards
Define Arousal?
Arousal is a physiacl and mental state of alertness/excitement varying from deep sleep to intense excitement.
What level of arousal do you have when in deep sleep and intense excitement?
Low levels of arousal - deep sleepHigh levels of arousal - intense excitement
What are the physical signs of arousal?
Rise in Heart ratesweatingnausia
What Theory is used to explain Arousal?
Inverted U Theory
Explain how arousal affecs performance according to the Inverted U theory
As arousal increases so does performanceUp to the optimal/perfect levelIf arousal increases further performance will decreaseOptimum arousal levels varies for different sporting skills.
What level of arousal is required for movementsthat areFine /precise ______________Gross/large Give some sporting examples
Low optimum levels of arousal - Fine /precise, needing accuacy eg archery, darts, snookerHigh optimum levels of arousal - Gross/large muscle movementseg rugby tackle, Sprinting, Weightlifting
Name 3 different methods used to control arousal
Deep Breathing (Physical/somatic)Mental rehearsal/visualisation/imagery (Mental/cognitive)Positive self talk ( Mental Cognitive
Explain deep breathing technique used to control arousal.
A Physical somatic technique which involves the performer exaggerating their breaths in and out.The top half of the body should be relaxed and slow,deep breaths should be used to allow the performer to control their arousal/nerves. Focus’ the mind before and during performance.
Give an example of an elite athlete who uses breathing techniques to control arousal
Ronaldo - will deep breathe in preparation for his free kicks. His pose and stance are repeated before each free kick and deep exaggereated breaths help him to focus on the skill he is about to execute.
Explain how Mental rehearsal/imagery/visualisation are used to control arousal levels.
A mental technique the performer pictures themselves performing the skill perfrectly before attempting it. This mental/cognitive relaxation technique involves control of mental thoughts and imagining positive outcomes.
Give an example of an elite athlete who uses mental rehearsal to control arousal levels.
Jonny Wilkinson befroe converting a rugby try would visualise the ball going through the posts, this controlled his arousal and focused his mind.
Explain how Self- talk is used to control arousal levels.
A mental /cognitive technique whereby the performer talks to themselves in their head to reassure themselves. It is usually positive talk and can reassure performers that they are doing well
Give some examples of sports performers using self talk.
A golfer reassuring themselves that they acn hole a puttAn athlete in the blocks confirming to themselves that they are good enough to winA netballer quietly encouraging herself to score eg come on you can do this.
