Pregame Mental Imagery
Mental imagery for athletes is like a rehearsal for the mind before the game occurs. The athlete can engage all of their senses to mentally prepare for their sport. It helps to first focus on the end goal, such as winning the game or personally having success in an area or skill you are working on. Some athletes find it helpful to write the goals down, while others just think about the goals. The athlete can find a comfortable environment to visualize before the game. This could be the dressing room, the stadium seating, etc.
Focus on the goal and the upcoming game. Take deep breaths and focus on your breathing. See yourself in the game, feel the intensity of the competition, the sweat, the speed. Hear the crowd, the sounds of the sport, the referee, your teammates, your opponents. Notice the smells in the game, the lights, the sights. Focus on achieving your goal, and see and feel yourself executing flawlessly and confidently in the game.
Think about the feelings associated with achieving your goal and playing well during your mental imagery exercise. Feel the joy associated with a great pass, a well-executed defensive play, or scoring a goal.
Allowing yourself to get into a routine to mentally prepare before a game and visualizing will help to create or recreate the positive in-game experiences in your mind. Mental preparation and practice is just as important as physical preparation and practice.
