Stress management to optimise performance: Practice Questions

• a.

  Progressive muscular relaxation

• b.

  Negative thought stopping

• c.

  Biofeedback

• d.

  Centring technique

• a.Somatic technique; to mentally rehearse the physical movements of the swing.
• b.Somatic technique; to gain voluntary control over involuntary physiological responses.
• c.Cognitive technique; to replace negative thoughts with positive self-talk.
• d.Cognitive technique; to redirect attentional focus towards external cues.

• a.

  Mindfulness focuses on being present in the moment without judgment, whereas imagery involves creating a mental picture of a specific successful outcome.

• b.

  Mindfulness requires external electronic monitoring, whereas imagery is purely internal and requires no equipment.

• c.

  Mindfulness is a somatic technique targeting muscle tension, whereas imagery is a cognitive technique targeting the mind.

• d.

  Mindfulness is used only during the preparatory phase of training, whereas imagery is used only during active competition.

• a.

  Focusing on the rate and depth of breathing while redirecting energy to the core of the body to regain composure.

• b.

  Alternating between tensing and relaxing major muscle groups to identify areas of physical stress.

• c.

  Mental rehearsal of a successful serve to increase self-efficacy before the point starts.

• d.

  Using electronic sensors to monitor heart rate and blood pressure to learn how to control autonomic functions.

• a.By systematically tensioning and relaxing muscle groups to reduce physical tension and lower physiological arousal.
• b.By using a mantra to block out distracting environmental stimuli.
• c.By refocusing the mind on a single 'spot' to regulate breathing rhythm.
• d.By visualising a successful finish to increase self-confidence and decrease cognitive anxiety.

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.