Paper 2 - Goal Setting & Mental Preparation Questions Flashcards
Why might an elite athlete set goals at the start of a new season?
To optimize performance and provide focus for training
Goal setting is crucial for motivation and performance improvement
What does the SMART principle stand for?
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Recorded, Timed
Each component helps in effectively setting goals
What is the importance of measurable goals?
Progress can be monitored and achievements can be assessed
Measurable goals help in tracking improvements
Why should goals be achievable?
To enhance motivation and ensure they are realistic based on the athlete’s capabilities
Overly challenging goals can lead to demotivation
What does it mean for a goal to be recorded?
Goals should be written down to ensure accountability and track progress
This practice helps in maintaining focus on the goal
How can goal setting impact motivation?
Experiencing progression towards a goal is motivating and encourages setting new goals
Motivation is key for continuous improvement
What are some potential drawbacks of overly challenging goals?
They may feel unattainable, leading to demotivation
Balance is crucial in goal difficulty
How can goal setting improve performance?
It provides structure and improves the quality of training
Focus on specific goals helps athletes ignore distractions
What is a key benefit of creating a career plan with SMART targets?
It provides clear objectives and a structured path for development
A well-defined plan can enhance career progression
How does goal setting affect training adherence?
It provides a definite focus and purpose, leading to better commitment
Adherence is crucial for long-term success in sports
What is Goal Setting?
The process of taking steps to achieve a desired aim or outcome
Define Mental Preparation
The process of preparing mentally for a performance through techniques like imagery, mental rehearsal, selection attention and positive thinking
What is Mental Rehearsal?
Imagining yourself performing a skill or sequence of movements before competition
List the benefits of Mental Rehearsal
- Helps concentrate on relevant aspects of performance
- Ignores unwanted distractions
- Reacts quickly to unseen or changing circumstances
- Calms down by diverting attention from worries & doubts
- Rehearses tactics & strategies
What is Imagery?
Picturing yourself doing the activity and simulating the feelings of the movements
What is Cognitive Anxiety?
The psychological symptoms of anxiety such as fear, worry, and doubt
What is Somatic Anxiety?
The bodily symptoms of anxiety such as elevated heart rate, muscle tremors, and nausea
What is Selective Attention?
Concentrating on only the relevant information and ignoring irrelevant information
True or False: Selective attention is important for beginners.
True
What does Positive Thinking involve?
Being positive about past performances and future efforts through self-talk
List the benefits of Positive Thinking
- Improves confidence & self-belief
- Improves concentration
- Raises motivation & adherence to the task
- Helps control arousal & anxiety
- Reduces cognitive anxiety effects
Give an example of how a sprinter uses imagery.
A sprinter uses imagery to divert their attention away from their anxieties & calm down before a race
What is the purpose of Mental Preparation techniques?
To control anxiety and improve performance
