One of the mental skills vital for obtaining peak performance in sports is the ability to control distractions and become 100% focused on athletic performance.  Internal distractions such as fear, doubt, negative thoughts, or anxiety can cause an athlete to lose focus and hinder performance.  External distractions such as smells, noise, people, or other physical surroundings can also cause an athlete to lose focus.  Focusing is a skill that can be difficult to master; therefore, it is important for the athlete to practice shutting out all internal and external distractions during training sessions and competition.  When athletes focus only on the techniques or physical skills, distractions can be minimized, thus peak performance can occur.  When unexpected distractions occur, such as an equipment malfunction or a power outage, the athlete must be disciplined to put the distraction out of their mind, and refocus on athletic skills.  It is through intense focus that the athlete gets “in the zone.”

Being “in the zone” refers to the athlete being so focused on his athletic techniques that nothing else going on around him matters or distracts him.  It also means that the athlete lets go and allows his body to do what it has been trained to do through muscle memory.  Athletes can prepare mentally to become in the zone through imagery and relaxation techniques.  These skills will be discussed in later newsletters.  Parents need to do their part so that the child-athlete’s distractions are at a minimal.  Encourage them, give positive feedback, love them regardless of outcome, and resist the urge to coach them on the sidelines.  By being a healthy mental support to the child, parents will help decrease anxiety, fear, and doubt, which decrease distractions, thus leading to a better athletic performance.

Debbie Tran
Master of Sport Psychology