Overview
This lecture explores the concepts of concentration, attention, and focus in sports, examining their definitions, types, challenges, and strategies for improvement.
Definitions and Core Concepts
- Concentration is the ability to perform with clear and present focus on a task.
- Focus is the central point of one’s attention.
- Attention is what an individual is observing at any given moment.
- Concentration, attention, and focus are often used interchangeably.
- Effective performance requires controlling attention to concentrate on task demands.
Types and Dimensions of Attention
- Focus can be internal (thoughts, emotions, sensations) or external (environmental cues).
- Attention can be broad (many cues) or narrow (one or two cues).
- Athletes need to shift between types and dimensions of focus depending on the situation.
- Four attentional focus types: Assess (external, broad), Perform (external, narrow), Analyze (internal, broad), Rehearse (internal, narrow).
Factors Affecting Concentration
- Loss of concentration can result in injury or poor performance.
- Attentional focus must adapt quickly in dynamic sports environments.
- Thinking about the past or future introduces irrelevant cues and may lead to errors.
Problems with Concentration
- Distractions (internal/external) impede focus: negative self-talk, fatigue, spectators, noise.
- Choking is a rapid decline in performance under pressure characterized by increased anxiety, muscle tension, and narrowed attention.
- Over-analysis and emotional pressure can disrupt automatic skill execution.
Self-Talk and Mental Strategies
- Self-talk (internal dialogue) can break bad habits, sustain effort, and improve skill.
- Positive, instructional self-talk boosts confidence and focus; negative self-talk harms performance.
- Techniques include thought stopping, use of cue words/phrases, and focusing on task-relevant thoughts.
Improving and Training Concentration
- Practice simulations with distractions to mimic game conditions.
- Use concentration cues and non-judgmental thinking.
- Develop routines that reinforce attentional control before and during events.
- List controllable vs. uncontrollable factors to focus on what can be changed.
- Perform distraction drills to strengthen the ability to refocus.
- Experience, confidence, and arousal levels influence attentional abilities.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Concentration — The ability to maintain focus on relevant cues during performance.
- Focus — The central point of attention.
- Attention — What is currently being observed or mentally processed.
- Choking — Performance breakdown under pressure due to loss of attentional control.
- Self-talk — Internal statements used to direct focus and regulate emotions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice positive self-talk and cue words during training.
- Try distraction drills and simulation exercises to prepare for competitive settings.
- Make lists of controllables and uncontrollables for specific sports situations.
- Develop and follow pre-performance routines to maintain focus.