WHAT IS MENTAL TRAINING.

Mental training (MST) is the consistent use of methods to develop the mental skills you need to perform at your highest level.

Examples of these methods are:

  • setting effective goals

  • making visualizations/mental images

  • relaxing and energizing when needed

  • talking positively to and about yourself

By training and developing these methods, you improve your mental skills. These skills make you mentally strong and can help you get into the ‘flow’. MST is not limited to the sports world. Mental training can also be valuable in everyday life. Examples of mental skills are:

  • Motivation is evident in the choices you make, the amount of effort you are willing to put in, and how persistent you are in doing it again and again. Motivation is not a constant; it fluctuates over time and can be affected by internal and external factors. Dealing with these ups and downs is trainable.

  • Sports are inherently stressful, but your job can be stressful too. Sports are full of intense physical demands and pressure, especially if you play competitively. In a recreational setting, you can often deal with stress, but it’s a different story when you have to serve a match point with the championship on the line or give a very important presentation. How do you deal with stress then? This too can be trained.

  • Managing your energy is the ability to get into your optimal energy zone. Optimal performance can be disrupted by an ‘arousal’ level that is too high or too low. Well-trained athletes/professionals are aware of their ideal energy zone and can get there and stay there.

  • Believing in yourself is one of the most important keys to success! Success builds self-confidence, but self-confidence is also necessary to achieve success. Optimally self-confident athletes/persons are both competent and well-prepared. This is within your own control and can therefore be trained.

  • Success in your sport/work depends (among other things) on the ability to focus on the task at hand and block out all distractions. This is easier said than done. Even a brief lapse in concentration can have major consequences in your sport/work. It is therefore important to develop your attention and concentration skills.

Are you ready to improve your performance? Sign up now for a free intake and experience what mental training can do for you!