 | Endurance Performance in Sport: Psychological Theory and Interventions Subjects: Behavioral Sciences; Sports and Leisure; Psychological Science; Sport and Exercise Science; Sport Psychology; Exercise Psychology; Sports Performance Analysis; Sports Psychology; Athletes participating at all levels of endurance performance can relate to the impact of psychological factors. Whether it is motivation, self-belief, feeling nervous before a race, exercise-induced pain, sticking to a pacing strategy, or thoughts around what to focus on, there are a vast number of psychological factors which can affect endurance performance. Bringing together experts in the field from around the world, this is the first text to provide a detailed overview of the psychology of endurance performance where there is a research and an applied focus looking at both main theoretical models as well as how interventions can support an athlete's efficacy and well-being. The authors look at regulatory processes around pain, decision-making, self-belief, emotions, and meta-cognition, before examining a range of cognitive strategies, including the use of imagery, goals, self-talk, and mindfulness techniques. With a final section of the book outlining issues related to mental health that are relevant to endurance performance, the book shows that the future of research and application of psychological theory in endurance performance in sport is bright and thriving. Aimed at researchers, students, coaches, and athletes themselves, this is essential reading for anyone wishing to better understand how our minds experience endurance in performance arenas, and what psychological techniques can be used to make us more efficient. Carla Meijen is a chartered sport and exercise psychologist and a senior lecturer in applied sport psychology at St Mary's University, UK. She has a keen interest in endurance performance inspired by her work providing brief mental support at running events. She researches and teaches in sport psychology, and also works as a sport psychology practitioner. |
