The Merriam-Webster dictionary (2013), would define an athlete as, someone who has training or is good at sports, games, or participating in exercise that requires physical skill and strength. In essence, an athlete is anyone who is participating in movement with the intent to be exercising and/or training for a sport or game that requires physical skill. Understanding the meaning of an athlete may change your mindset and have you realize, "Wait a minute, I am an athlete." I would continue this definition by breaking the idea of an athlete into two categories: Competitive Athlete & Non-Competitive Athlete. I bet you once believed you were an athlete when you were a member of a team back in "your glory days." I hope you redefine yourself and understand you are still an athlete.
A Competitive Athlete is defined as someone who is currently training physically for a specific
competition. A Non-Competitive Athlete would be someone who enjoys to physically exercise but does not participate in any competitive events. Re-framing your idea of an athlete expands the concept of whom obtains a Better Sports Mind. Whether you are a Competitive or Non-Competitive Athlete you are still participating in a sport. Mental skills training will assist in developing your mental strength which will assist in enhancing your physical strength.
As I stated earlier, a Better Sports Mind is for everyone. After defining the meaning of an athlete you still may not consider yourself one. I would than ask, are you a parent or supporter of an athlete? If the answer is yes than you could also gain an understanding and benefit from a Better Sports Mind. You will relate to your child more, become a better supporter and see how mental skills are transferable life skills. Meaning, you may not need relaxation techniques to assist in calming your nerves before a free throw, but you will benefit from some deep breathing techniques while sitting in traffic!
In essence, anyone could benefit from a Better Sports Mind, as a Better Sports Mind, is learning specific mental skills techniques: goal setting, communication, motivation, confidence, energy management, focus and control, relaxation, and visualization. These mental skills will assist in all aspect of your life and are practiced just like your physical skills. We all need a Better Sports Mind because inside us all is an ATHLETE. Develop your athlete identity today.
Without inspiration the best powers of the mind remain dormant. There is a fuel in us which needs to be ignited with sparks.-Johann Gottfried Von Herder
athlete. 2011. In Merriam-Webster.com.
Retrieved November 19, 2013, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/athlete
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