Athlete Preparation for Sports
UCLA Basketball Coach John Wooden believed competitive greatness is the ability to be at your best when it is needed.
Learn how to help your athletes achieve this.
Physical, Mental, and Emotional Preparation (Coach Summary)
Physical Preparation
- Performance reflects how athletes train—physically and mentally
- Training should mirror competition (technique, rhythm, pressure)
- What athletes repeat in practice shows up in competition
- Reduce bad habits (ex: frequent fouling in the throws) → build consistent, successful reps
- Confidence grows from preparation and consistency
Athletes don’t “rise to the occasion” they fall back on their training
Mental & Emotional Preparation
- Use positive self-talk to build confidence and control emotions
- Use mental imagery to rehearse correct technique and competition scenarios
- Find the right emotional level (not too tense, not too relaxed)
- Goal = flow state (automatic, confident execution)
Mental Rehearsal (Simple Use)
- Use during rest periods between throws/jumps
- Visualize correct movement and positions
- Replay successful performances
- Combine mental + physical practice for best results
Coaching Focus Points
- Focus on controllables (technique, effort, routine)
- Reinforce successful reps
- Replace negative thoughts with positive cues
- Keep cues simple and repeatable
Imagery Types
- External (video view): see yourself performing
- Internal (feel view): feel the movement (more effective for advanced athletes)
Key Takeaways
- Consistent practice → consistent performance
- Mental training is a performance skill
- Best athletes combine physical reps + mental reps
- Confidence = preparation + repetition + belief
