How Can the Use of Visualization Help Athletes Improve Their Performance by Overcoming Barriers That May Hinder Goal Attainment?

摘要

The purpose of this study was to determine if the knowledge and experience gained through research supported the theory that the use of visualization could help athletes improve their performance by overcoming barriers that may hinder their attempts for goal attainment. The method I used to gather the data in support of my PDE entailed mixed methodology. Data were collected from interviews, questionnaires, seminar evaluations and a personal perspective. It was important for me to be an integral part of this study in order to explore a perspective from one athlete's point of view. Forty-five individuals were involved in the interview process. Results showed that over 80% of those interviewed saw visualization as an important and vital mental strategy towards improving their performance. This was reinforced and validated by the documentation obtained through my research and review of the literature. Results from this study were documented and submitted as part of my PDE. Some of the literature indicated that using mental strategies and in particular visualization to improve performance was strictly reserved for elite athletes. I disagreed with that theory. As I progressed through this study it became more apparent that everyday athletes were just as apt to use visualization successfully as were elite athletes. In fact of the forty-five participants I interviewed only two athletes (rugby player and high school golfer) even came close to fitting the definition of an elite athlete. I concluded that most individuals wanted to improve their performance no matter in which area they perform. Mental strategies were important to that development, whether it was visualization, attitude, confidence or commitment---athletes as well as non-athletes will attempt to improve their performance using whatever means and tools available to them.