Sports Psychology

Question 1

Open skills

Answer 1

Seen in sports such as football where the situation is always changing. When practicing open skills, a game situation has to be re created

Question 2

Closed skills

Answer 2

Take place in a stable and predictable environment where the player knows exactly what to do and when. These skills are not affected by the environment. Movements follow set patterns and have a clear beginning and end

Question 3

Basic skill

Answer 3

One the player finds easy and needs little concentration to do. This could be a chest pass in netball or a side-pass in football

Question 4

Complex skill

Answer 4

Needs the players complete attention and concentration as it is technically difficult to perform. For example a penalty kick in football or a smash in tennis. These skills need to be practiced over and over again so they become easier to do in a game situation

Question 5

Massed practice

Answer 5

Where the skill is practice until its learned without taking a break. Usually for athletes of higher fitness and ability

Question 6

Distributed practice

Answer 6

Where the skill is practiced over several sessions or with rest breaks. Normally for players of lower fitness or ability

Question 7

Fixed practice

Answer 7

Where the skill is practiced over and over until it is perfected. For example could be used for a free throw in basketball. Closed skills normally practiced in this way

Question 8

Variable practice

Answer 8

Involves practicing the skill in a variety of different situations so that it can be adapted to suit different situations. Essential for open skill practice

Question 9

What can an athlete do to prepare for a performance?

Answer 9

Mental rehearsal: Going through a routine, for example listening to music to prepare you mentally for a game situation
Warm up: Get yourself ready for the game by easing in to the exercise