How Do Top-Level Athletes Hone their Mental Game?
Scott Smith, an internationally competitive figure skater and the alternate in the 2006 Olympic games, recently sat down with us to give us his secrets.
Smith, who was the only competitor to land a clean quadruple jump at the 2006 US Figure Skating Championships, says focus is critical. That’s because in skating, he doesn’t get a second chance. So he practices focusing, just as he practices his physical skills.
To practice, Smith goes through his routine as if he’s competing. Lots of repetition is key to improving focus, he says. It’s easier to feel confident if you’ve done the routine hundreds of times.
What’s more, he practices visualization. He closes his eyes and visualizes himself doing his routine well.
In addition, to focus after making a mistake, he focuses on his visualization or on one or two key technique words.
The goal, he says, is to focus on doing well—not on his mistake.
Want to read more about how Smith boosts his confidence and mental game skills?
At Kids’ Sports Psychology, we just added an article about Smith, “Staying Focused When It Matters Most: Tips From A Top Skater.”
Exclusive members can access this article for free. What’s more, they have access to many other articles that help boost their sports parenting skills and improve their kids’ mental games.
At Kids’ Sports Psychology, members also have access to videos, Q-And-As, audio interviews with experts, and e-books, some written specifically for sports parents and some for sports kids.
Related Articles on Youth Sports:
- Tips for Sports Kids With Focusing Challenges like ADHD
- Post-Game Tips for Young Athletes
- Tips for Helping Sports Kids Focus on What’s Important
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