ANSWERS) 2025 - DUE August 2025
1. Use of Imagery in Sport & How It Enhances Performance
Definition
Imagery (or visualisation) is the mental rehearsal of a skill or
performance without actual physical movement. Athletes
create mental pictures, using all senses, to replicate real
competition situations.
How It Enhances Performance
Skill Refinement – Athletes mentally practice technical
skills, reinforcing correct movement patterns.
Confidence Building – Seeing themselves succeed
increases self-belief before competitions.
Stress & Anxiety Control – Visualising stressful scenarios
and coping strategies helps reduce performance anxiety.
Preparation for Unforeseen Events – As Cassie Sharpe
described, imagining “bad scenarios” prepares athletes to
respond effectively in real time.
Neural Activation – Brain imaging studies show that
mental rehearsal activates similar neural pathways as
physical practice, strengthening skill memory.