Forrester PE Dept

Approaches to Mental Fitness

 

Relaxation Techniques

 

Relaxation itself can be useful in a number of circumstances including:

 

• the promotion of rest, recovery and recuperation

• the removal of stress related reactions, e.g. increased muscular tension, etc.

• the establishing of a physical and mental state which has an increased receptivity to positive mental imagery

• the establishing of a set level of physical and mental arousal prior to warming up for competition

 

There are a number of relaxation techniques that have the following characteristics:

• procedures for first recognising and then releasing tension in muscles

• concentration on breathing control and regulation

• concentration on sensations such as heaviness, warmth

• mental imagery

 

Regardless of which technique is used, the following two conditions need to exist if the technique is to be learned:

• the athlete must believe that relaxation will help

• a quiet, dimly lit and warm room which is free from interruption