Attention and concentration techniques

Question 1

Why is maintaining concentration important during performance?

Answer 1

Maintaining concentration and ignoring irrelevant cues are vital for sustained successful play (Amezdroz et al., 2018).

Question 2

Why might athletes need strategies to block out distractions?

Answer 2

Athletes can’t always use music or headphones to block out external distractions, so they need other strategies to enhance focus.

Question 3

What are two strategies to enhance attention and concentration in performance?

Answer 3

Two strategies to enhance attention and concentration are Refocusing Plans and Thought Stopping.

Question 4

What is a refocusing plan?

Answer 4

A refocusing plan is a strategy where athletes use cues or steps to regain focus when distractions occur or performance slips.

Question 5

What is thought stopping?

Answer 5

Thought stopping involves interrupting negative or distracting thoughts to maintain concentration and positive focus.