Often associated with high-level sports, mental preparation actually concerns all swimmers, whatever their goal. It helps them to better prepare, better manage their emotions, and approach sporting (but also professional or personal) challenges with more clarity and serenity.
- Physical preparation = body training.
- Mental preparation = brain training.
What is mental preparation for?
Mental preparation aims to optimize the mental resources mobilized during an effort or a project. It does not replace physical training or technique, but it allows for better utilization of them.
It is for anyone wishing to:
- Better prepare for an event
- Manage stress and emotions
- Strengthen concentration
- Clarify objectives
Preparing for an event with mental preparation
An event, whether sporting, professional, or personal, often requires a strong emotional and mental investment. Mental preparation allows you to approach these moments with greater control.
Examples of relevant events
Environment
Sports
Professional
Personal
Events
Starting a marathon
Preparing for an interview
Living in another country
What mental preparation helps to work on
Understanding these two levers, how we cope with stress, and how our thoughts shape our body and emotions; allows us to better know ourselves, to avoid counterproductive reactions and, ultimately, to perform better.
- Organization: optimizing training and recovery time
- Management: stress, fear, apprehension, self-esteem
- Concentration: identifying and limiting sources of distraction
Choosing your mental coach wisely
Mental preparation is a demanding discipline based on solid skills. It is essential to ensure the professional’s qualifications (university degree, recognized training).
Mental advice
A key point: you must feel confident. Even if recommended, a coach is not necessarily suitable for everyone.