Mental imagery use on elite track and field athletes before, during, and outside of practice

Abstract

The primary purpose of the study is to determine the effectiveness of mental imagery use during and outside of practice and its contribution to athletic performance. There is lack of physical documentation (i.e. video) and research supporting the development of skill through the use of mental imagery during and outside of practice for athletes. The participants in this study were two elite track and field performers, one male sprinter and one male hurdler. The participants practiced mental imagery five to six days a week for eight weeks before, during (or between drills or tasks) and outside of practice. Overall, the male sprinter spent 350 minutes practicing mental imagery before or during practice, 109 minutes spent outside of practice. The male hurdler spent 121 minutes practicing mental imagery before or during, 51 minutes spent outside of practice. The male sprinter felt his mental practice progression (i.e. visualizations becoming more clear over time) has been effective at building belief in himself and that his physical practice progression has been flowing smoothly due to the use of mental imagery. The male hurdler was undecided about his mental practice progression, but felt more of a motivational aspect at practicing physically due to mental imagery. The hurdler stated he was motivated to be quicker out of the blocks.