Elite sport psychology/motivation/summary

This module has has addressed motivation and its importance in elite sport. Here are some takeaway messages:

• Motivation can be both intrinsic or extrinsic.
• Some athletes are naturally motivated for competition whereas others need to develop this characteristic.
• Goal setting is a useful motivational strategy that should be developed and used regularly.
• Token rewards can be an effective way to motivate athletes, particularly for repetitive training drills.

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Motivational theories

Psychological theories of motivation are only briefly touched upon in this course. Here are some useful resources for those who wish to explore the topic further:

• Peak Performance Online has an interesting overview of motivation in sport.
• Self-Determination Theory is one of a number of motivational theories that underpin sport psychology. This one in particular focuses on extrinsic and intrinsic motivation.

Expert commentary: Climbing Mount Everest

Listen to sport psychologist Dr Michael Lloyd describe how, for one athlete, motivation was likened to climbing Mount Everest – a comparison that was taken quite literally and ultimately proved to be extremely effective.

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Now try this:

• What are your thoughts on Michael’s insights about motivation?
• Can you think of a metaphor (like Mount Everest) that would motivate an athlete. Describe its qualities?