AComprehensive Guide to Psychological Skills Training in Tennis
Prof. Mara Lofrano
Outline
I. Introduction
1. Overview of Psychological Skills Training (PST) in Tennis
2. Significance of addressing psychological aspects in athlete development
II. Knowing theAthlete – Tool: Performance Profile
1. Importance of individualized approaches in tennis coaching
2. Introduction to the Performance Profile tool
• Gathering data on skill levels
• Identifying mental strengths and weaknesses
• Understanding personal preferences and motivations
III. Incorporating and practicing psychological skills as habit.
1. The role of habits in tennis performance
2. Selected habit for incorporation
• How the habit contributes to performance improvement
3. The 15-day practice rule
• Importance of consistent practice
• Designing a structured practice routine
IV. Tools for Kids and ProfessionalAthletes
1.Adapting PST for children
• Importance of fun methods for kids
• Examples of engaging and enjoyable exercises
2. Tailoring PST for professional athletes
• Adjusting methods for elite players
• Addressing specific needs of advanced athletes
V. Psychological Tools for TennisAthletes
(If possible, use a real athlete for practice - Visualization)
1. Short Memory
• Role of short memory in tennis performance
• Short-term memory enhancement exercises
2. Visualization
• Utilizing mental imagery for skill improvement
• Incorporating visualization into training sessions
3. Self-talk
• Impact of self-talk on mental resilience
• Developing positive self-talk strategies
4. Mindfulness
• Integrating mindfulness into physical activities
• Walk/run mindfulness for tennis athletes
5. Other tools
VI. Integration andApplication
1. Combining psychological tools within a comprehensive training plan.
2. Developing tailored programs for individual athletes.
VII. Conclusion
1. Recap of the key concepts and tools discussed.
2. Encouraging coaches and athletes to embrace PST for enhanced performance.
3. Emphasizing the ongoing nature of psychological skills development in tennis.
4. Combining psychological tools within a comprehensive training plan.