Question 1: Describe two mental strategies that athletes can use to improve focus before a sporting event.

Answer: Possible strategies include visualisation, where athletes imagine successful performance, and deep breathing exercises to calm nerves and increase concentration.

Question 2: Explain the concept of positive self-talk and how it can benefit an athlete during competition.

Answer: Positive self-talk involves an athlete encouraging themselves with constructive statements, which can boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and enhance performance.

Question 3: Identify and explain one way an athlete can use goal setting as part of their mental preparation.

Answer: An athlete can set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, such as aiming to improve a personal best within a set timeframe, to stay motivated and focused.

Question 4: Describe what a mental rehearsal is and how it might help an athlete prepare for competition.

Answer: Mental rehearsal involves visualising oneself performing a skill or event successfully, which can enhance confidence, reduce nerves, and improve actual performance.

Question 5: List three physical relaxation techniques an athlete might use to reduce pre-competition anxiety.

Answer: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and stretching are techniques that can help relax the body and reduce stress.

Question 6: Explain the importance of routines in mental preparation for sports.

Answer: Pre-performance routines help athletes focus, reduce anxiety, and establish consistency, which can enhance confidence and performance.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram of a mental preparation routine that includes three steps an athlete could follow before competing.

Answer: A correct sketch would show three sequential steps such as: 1. Deep breathing to relax, 2. Visualization of successful performance, 3. Positive self-talk to boost confidence.

Question 8: Discuss how an athlete can use mindfulness as part of their mental preparation.

Answer: Mindfulness involves paying focused attention to the present moment, which can help athletes manage stress, improve concentration, and stay calm during competition.

Question 9: Identify one potential challenge athletes may face when using mental preparation techniques and suggest a solution.

Answer: A challenge could be difficulty maintaining focus; a solution is to practice techniques regularly to build mental resilience and improve concentration over time.