You Train the Body—But What About the Brain?

Sports Psychology Basics for Coaches, Athletes, and Parents

Sport is physical, yes. But at the elite level—and even at the grassroots—what often separates good from great is what happens inside the athlete's mind. Confidence, focus, motivation, resilience: these are all part of the field of sports psychology.

So what exactly is sports psychology?

Simply put, it is the study of how mental and emotional factors affect performance in sport and exercise. But it’s more than just theory. Coaches, athletes, and even parents can use these principles in day-to-day training and competition.

Every athlete has experienced pressure. Whether it’s stepping up to take a crucial penalty, coming back after an injury, or trying to regain form after a bad performance, how they respond often determines their future. That’s where sports psychology steps in. One of the key principles is mental preparation. Just like athletes train their bodies, they must train their minds. Techniques like visualisation, positive self-talk, mindfulness, and breathing exercises can all help an athlete stay focused, reduce anxiety, and build confidence.

Another critical area is motivation. Athletes need both intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) motivators to keep going, especially during difficult periods. Understanding what drives an athlete can help coaches tailor their communication, and keep the environment supportive and challenging.

Coaches also play a huge role in shaping the psychological climate of the team. Their tone, expectations, and behaviour influence how athletes view themselves. For example, an environment that allows failure to be part of the learning process helps athletes build resilience and autonomy.

Sports psychology isn’t only for the elite. A young gymnast dealing with fear on the bars, a teen footballer struggling with self-doubt, or a weekend runner trying to improve their mindset during a race—they all benefit from understanding how their mind works. And for parents, recognising signs of burnout, anxiety, or loss of motivation is critical. Encouraging open conversations and supporting rather than pressuring can help young athletes navigate the emotional rollercoaster that sport often brings.

The mind is not separate from the body in sport. It is the engine behind every decision, every action, every emotion. Understanding and training it should be part of every athlete’s journey.

References

1. Weinberg, R. S., & Gould, D. (2023). Foundations of sport and exercise psychology. Human kinetics.