The cognitive and motivational effects of imagery training from different visual perspectives.

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to examine Hardy's (1997) hypothesis that external visual imagery is the most beneficial imagery perspective for tasks that focus on form and body shape. A secondary purpose was to test whether a short-term imagery training program would result in improvements in imagery ability. Eighteen synchronized figure skaters participated in a five week imagery training program that focused on imaging the form and body position of skating skills in practice and competitive situations. Analysis of the results provided support for Hardy's hypothesis because skaters who adopted an external imagery perspective benefited the most from the imagery training program. This was demonstrated by a significant increase in the use of the cognitive functions of imagery as measured by the Sport Imagery Questionnaire. In comparison, skaters who adopted an internal perspective made no significant improvements. Significant improvements were made on both general imagery ability and a skating specific scale. The results are further discussed in terms of an athlete's preference for a particular imagery perspective, as well as the implications for sport psychology consultants.