Question 1: Define 'mental preparation' and explain why it is important for athletes before a competition.

Answer: Mental preparation involves activities that help athletes focus, stay confident, and reduce anxiety before competing. It is important because it can improve concentration, performance, and help athletes manage nerves.

Question 2: List three mental techniques athletes might use to prepare for a sports event.

Answer: Visualization, positive self-talk, and deep breathing exercises.

Question 3: Describe how visualization can help an athlete improve their performance.

Answer: Visualization involves imagining oneself successfully completing a skill or winning a game. It helps build confidence, reduces anxiety, and prepares the brain for the actual performance.

Question 4: Explain what positive self-talk is and give an example that a runner might use before a race.

Answer: Positive self-talk is encouraging or confidence-boosting words athletes tell themselves. Example: 'I am prepared and capable of winning this race.'

Question 5: Imagine an athlete is feeling very nervous before a match. What strategies could they use to calm their nerves?

Answer: They could practice deep breathing, focus on positive thoughts, listen to calming music, or do some light stretching to relax.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram showing how an athlete might use breathing techniques to stay calm before competing. Label the parts of the diagram and describe the correct features of your sketch.

Answer: The sketch should show an athlete sitting quietly, with arrows indicating slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth. Labels should include 'inhale', 'exhale', and 'relaxation'. The athlete should appear calm, and the diagram should emphasize controlled breathing.

Question 7: Explain why it is beneficial for athletes to develop a pre-competition routine.

Answer: A pre-competition routine helps athletes feel prepared, reduces anxiety, and creates consistency, which can improve focus and performance.

Question 8: Describe how setting goals can help an athlete mentally prepare for a sporting event.

Answer: Setting goals provides motivation, focus, and a clear target to aim for, which boosts confidence and helps athletes stay determined and organized in their preparation.

Question 9: Imagine you are coaching a team. What advice would you give to help your players mentally prepare for a match?

Answer: I would advise them to visualize success, focus on their strengths, practice positive self-talk, stick to their routines, and stay calm through breathing exercises.