Sport Psychology Videos

Psychology at the Olympics

This video dramatically sells the role of psychology at the Olympics. At a couple of points, the video refers to sport psychology as a "dark art" and compares psychology to placebos. Sport psychology is more about taking control of the mental aspects of performance, rather than leaving them to chance. It influences performance beyond what can be attributed to a placebo effect.

A day in the life of a Sport and Exercise Psychologist

This video provides an accurate reflection of what it can be like to be a Sport and Exercise Psychologist. Many sport psychology practitioners are involved in consultancy work, teaching, and research activities.

Michael Phelps on goal setting

Michael Phelps drawing attention to important goal setting principles, such as buying in to your own goals, setting goals with your coach, and adjusting goals when you're not on course to achieve them.

Michael Phelps on imagery and if-then planning

Six-time Olympic gold medallist Ryan Lochte describes visualising his perfect race.

Professor Robert Winston explains the role of imagery in elite sports performance. This video demonstrates that imagery can play a key role in motor learning, such as learning a new move in gymnastics.

Staying confident during a goal drought. Tom Bates (who discusses Psychology at the Olympics, as above) offers one approach to footballers remaining confident during a goal drought. Ade Akinbiyi (remember him?) may have valued this during his time at Leicester City!