Sports Psychology in Elite Athletes

The video explores the role of sports psychology in the success and failure of elite athletes. It highlights contrasting approaches of athletes like Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps, and examines how sports psychology can explain unexpected outcomes in competitions. The video defines sports psychology, discusses its importance, and outlines strategies such as motivation, confidence, and anxiety management that athletes use to optimize performance.

What contrasting approaches do Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps use before their events?

• Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps both joke around.

• Usain Bolt meditates while Michael Phelps jokes around.

• Usain Bolt listens to music while Michael Phelps meditates.

• Usain Bolt jokes around while Michael Phelps listens to music.

What psychological factor might have contributed to Brazil's loss in the 2012 Olympics soccer final?

• Poor weather conditions

• Injury

• Lack of skill

• Overconfidence

How did Rory McIlroy recover after his performance drop in the 2011 Augusta Masters?

• He changed his coach

• He took a year off

• He won the US Open eight weeks later

• He quit golfing

What is the primary focus of sports psychology?

• Physical training

• Diet and nutrition

• Equipment selection

• Mental preparation for sport

Which of the following is NOT a factor linked to success in sports according to sports psychology?

• Height of the athlete

• Confidence

• Motivation

• Knowledge of the sport

What does the SMARTER acronym in goal setting stand for?

• Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound, Evaluated, Reviewed

• Simple, Manageable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely, Evaluated, Reviewed

• Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-bound, Evaluated, Reviewed

• Simple, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound, Evaluated, Reviewed

What is the purpose of imagery in sports psychology?

• To enhance team communication

• To distract from competition

• To mentally rehearse performance

• To improve physical strength

How does self-talk benefit athletes during competition?

• It distracts them from the game

• It makes them overconfident

• It boosts motivation and manages pressure

• It helps them ignore their coaches

Which relaxation technique is mentioned as being used by Michael Phelps?

• Deep breathing

• Visualization

• Listening to music

• Yoga

What is a common strategy used by athletes to manage anxiety before a competition?

• Using relaxation techniques

• Practicing more

• Ignoring the competition

• Changing their diet