Elite sport psychology/music/summary

This module has addressed how music can be harnessed in training and competition:

• A conceptual framework was presented based on two decades of research.
• Music offers psychological, psychophysical, and physiological benefits.
• Understanding the context of when to use music is important. This includes the type of activity and personal and situational factors.
• Music can be used in training and can be matched to specific activities.
• Music is not suitable for all activities. When learning new skills or following coaching instructions music can act as a distraction and disrupt concentration.
• Music can also be used prior to competition to regulate arousal.
• Music can be coupled with imagery to assist performance.
• Music is useful for relaxing athletes before, during and after competition.

Go further

The Conversation

Professor Peter Terry shares some insights about music and sport performance in The Conversation.

• Want to win? Let music give you the edge

Create a playlist

Several music services, including Spotify, Apple Music, and jog.fm, allow you to create your own playlists. Why don’t you have a go?

To give you some ideas, view Dr Costas Karageorghis playlists for various fitness and strength activities. The playlist should last around 40 – 60 mins.

• Spotify reveal doctor-approved workout playlists