Sport psychology is the scientific study of people and their behaviors in sports activities and the practical application of that knowledge. In sport psychology, it's important to understand how psychological factors affect an athlete's physical performance and to understand how participation in sport affects a person's psychological development.
Sports & Athletic Performance
Whether you enjoy football, baseball, hockey or swimming, being in top physical shape will improve your athletic performance and protect yourself from injuries. Each sport comes with its own physical demands on your body. You may need training for balance, flexibility or agility to help you perform at the top of your game.
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See All 3 AnswersA sports physical exam, also referred to as a “physical,” ensures there are no pre-existing physical conditions that may limit or contraindicate your participation in a sport or activity. It’s important to undergo one on an annual basis, especially if you’re active in sports.
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A child may be able to play sports while wearing a cast, depending on what part of their body was injured and the sport they're in. For example, if a child has a broken arm and they can move the elbow, they may be able to participate in sports like soccer—but if the child has a broken ankle, they would not be able to participate in running sports.
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National Academy of Sports Medicine answeredSee All 3 AnswersThe first step is to get cleared by your physician to make sure that your injury is healed to the point you can participate in sports again. Once that happens start by engaging in regular physical activity to strengthen and recondition your body. Start with exercise to correct any possible muscular imbalances that have occurred followed by working to develop muscular endurance. Focus on single joint, and progress to whole body movements focusing on 15 to 20 repetitions per set, and several sets. Once you have developed muscular endurance, transition to muscular strength exercises again starting with single joint and progressing to total body movements and focusing on 5 to 8 repetitions per set. Once you have developed muscular strength, develop muscular power by focusing on explosive movements using 5 to 10 percent of your body weight for 10 repetitions. Once you have developed muscular endurance, strength and power, you can start transitioning back into your sport. Start with light practice and as your endurance and skill level gets back to normal levels you can eventually return to your pre-injury levels.
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If you play sports, you can prevent knee injuries by making sure you strengthen your quadriceps and stretching.
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Reston Hospital Center answeredSports that don't require impact, like swimming, are easier on the knees.
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Scripps Health answeredStarting a child’s sports career at an early age may seem like a smart way to get ahead. But research shows that beginning very young -- age four or sooner -- provides no benefit to future sports performance and may contribute to injuries and burnout. Kids build their sports skills in a progressive sequence that can’t be dramatically sped up, no matter how early, often or hard they train. Motor skills such as balance and running don’t fully develop until age six or seven, while the ability to visually track moving objects doesn’t mature until age eight or nine. -
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Mr. Keith Elmore, NASM Elite Trainer , Athletic Training, answeredSee All 2 AnswersAfter retiring from a sport, especially if it was your profession, can leave one dealing with a sense of loss. With the right outlook it can be a great opportunity to apply time, energy and passion towards sporting activities that you may not have had time for while you were competing. So many retired athletes take up golf and really apply their drive and competitive spirit towards their new goal. If your more into the outdoors, mountain biking, kayaking and hiking are all great activities. This could be a great time in your life to set a fitness goal of competing in a triathlon. There are so many sporting activities that fulfill that need to compete and stay athletic. This is truly an opportunity for you to experience new things and embrace a new sense of freedom. -
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RealAge answeredSee All 3 AnswersA young athlete is subject to burnout, and this can be a big barrier to further play! The practice and game schedule may be rigorous, and the initial enthusiasm may wane. To prevent burnout:
- Keep your focus (and that of your athlete) on having fun and on being part of a team, not on winning.
- Be careful to avoid using your young athlete to boost your own self-worth when your child or your child’s team is successful.
- Support and encourage your child, but stop short of pressuring your child to perform.
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Dr. Vonda Wright, MD , Orthopedic Surgery, answeredSee All 4 AnswersWhile mental training is most commonly used to help individual or team performance, several other issues can be addressed through mental training. First, mental training can assist athletes who are injured in dealing with stress, in expediting the rehabilitation process, and in mentally preparing to return to competition. Second, a mental training consultant can help to educate parents and coaches on ways to enhance a young athlete's sport experience. Talking with groups about their influence on athletes' lives not only helps to ensure a positive sport experience for the athletes but also assists in opening the lines of communication among parents, coaches, and athletes. Third, mental training can assist athletes outside of sport in developing life skills, working through major life decisions, and transitioning out of sport.