Public Spark

WHAT IS PRECOMPETITIVE ANXIETY?

Imagine that it is the night before a sports competition and you begin to worry about whether you will be that dependent star player or win the trophy. You may have symptoms such as dry mouth, sweaty palms and rapid heart rate right before the “big game”. This is an example of precompetitive anxiety (PCA), one at the most debilitating variables in sport performance. It is a state of arousal that is unpleasant or negative and occurs during the 24 hour span prior to competition. Every athlete and performer has varying degrees of this to which it influences the outcome of the performance.

WHAT ARE THE SOURCES OF PCA?

Research by Walter Kroll has demonstrated that at least five factors underlie PCA:

1. physical complaints

   These symptoms include digestive disturbances, shaking and yawning. High state of physical arousal can be very draining to an athlete’s energy level. In any sports whether it be more active sports like basketball or a more calmer sport like golf, requires body to have effective transfer of power from the right muscle groups.

2. fear of failure

   As there is more at stake to win a competition, there is a higher sense that something could go wrong. There is a higher probability of making mistakes so naturally the fear of failure is real. Mental pictures of failure and past mistakes or other negative memories or emotions can damage performance. Also negative attitudes, ideas, and opinions may block effective performance.

3. feelings of inadequacy

   Anxiety can also surface feelings of not being prepared enough and loss of confidence. It can bring doubt about how well you are conditioned to perform and question your ability. There may also be feelings that something is or will go wrong.

4. loss of control

   There may also be a sense of losing control. Some athletes may believe in superstitions or feel as though they are being jinxed. Their anxieties may be projected onto bad luck, poor officiating, and/or inclement weather

5. guilt

   Athletes may have concerns about hurting an opponent, playing dirty, and cheating.

References:

• Track Technique

• Physorg

• Psychology and Sports