Authors – Vedika Jogani
A graduate from Ithaca College with a Master’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science, specializing in Mental Performance, Vedika Jogani is OMP’s Product and Content Manager.
The Paris 2024 Olympics showcased a significant shift in focus, with many athletes emphasizing mental skills as a crucial part of their performance strategy.
Visualization.
Australian Jessica Fox, who won two golds in canoeing at the Paris Games, uses visualization before she competes, while US gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik became a viral star for his visualization routine that he used before winning two bronze medals.
When we think of visualization, we often associate it solely with the visual sense.
But have you ever wondered how visually impaired athletes harness this powerful tool to enhance their performance?
Research has consistently demonstrated that visualization boosts physical performance by aiding skill development and activating brain regions as if the individual were actually competing.
However, much of this research has traditionally focused on the visual aspect of imagery.
Yet, visualization is a multi-sensory experience, encompassing kinesthetic, spatial, tactile, auditory, olfactory, and emotional components.
The study found 4 main findings:
1. Internal Perspective
Visually impaired athletes predominantly use an internal perspective, imagining the experience from within their own bodies.
This allows them to fully engage with the physical sensations and movements, creating a realistic mental rehearsal that closely mirrors actual performance.
This approach helps in refining motor skills and improving muscle memory.
2. Multi-Sensory Imagery
Their imagery is multi-sensory, engaging all available senses like touch, sound, and spatial awareness.
By incorporating these various sensory inputs, athletes create a more vivid and comprehensive mental experience.
This multi-sensory approach aligns with research showing that the most effective imagery involves as many senses as possible.
3. Use of Cognitive and Motivational Imagery
Athletes use cognitive imagery to rehearse specific skills and strategies, while motivational imagery helps manage emotions like stress and anxiety.
This dual approach allows them to mentally prepare both technically and emotionally, ensuring they are ready to perform at their best under pressure.
4. Timing of Imagery
Imagery is used both before and during competition, integrating mental preparation directly with performance.
This timing ensures that athletes are mentally primed for action and can maintain focus and composure throughout their events.
It helps them transition smoothly from mental rehearsal to physical execution.
Visual impairment does not limit an athlete’s ability to engage in mental imagery.
Instead, it underscores the importance of a holistic approach that includes all sensory modalities.
Imagery is a powerful psychological tool that athletes can use to reach their peak performance.
By incorporating mental imagery into their training, visually impaired athletes can enhance their skills, maintain focus, and perform at their best on the world stage.
