After reading this lesson, you will be able to:
- define imagery;
- discuss the effectiveness of imagery in enhancing sport performance;
- discuss the where, when, why, and what of imagery use by athletes;
- discuss the factors influencing imagery effectiveness;
- describe how imagery works;
- discuss the uses of imagery;
- explain how to develop a program of imagery training; and
- explain when to use imagery.
For many years athletes have been mentally practicing their motor skills. In fact, mental practice—so named to distinguish it from physical practice—has a long tradition in sport and exercise psychology, and the large body of literature on the topic has been thoroughly reviewed on numerous occasions. In the past three decades, this general focus on mental practice has given way to systematically studying the potential uses and effectiveness of imagery in sport and exercise settings. The following quote by all-time golf great Jack Nicklaus demonstrates his use of imagery:
“Before every shot I go to the movies inside my head. Here is what I see. First, I see the ball where I want it to finish, nice and white and sitting up high on the bright green grass. Then, I see the ball going there, its path and trajectory and even its behavior on landing. The next scene shows me making the kind of swing that will turn the previous image into reality. These home movies are a key to my concentration and to my positive approach to every shot.” [Read more…]
