Mental skills of elite ironman triathletes

Abstract

Elite athletes use mental strategies in a wide variety of sports to enhance performance (Mahoney, Gabriel, & Perkins, 1987; Orlick & Partington, 1999; Schomer, 1987; Tammen, 1996; Ungerleider & Golding, 1991). High-level athletes have been found to use mental strategies before, during, and after competition (Orlick, 2000). Little is known, however, about the psychological strategies that Ironman triathletes use to race successfully. The question of how these triathletes mentally prepare to be their best in competitions has not been addressed in the literature. The purpose of this study was to explore the mental skills employed by elite Ironman triathletes by exploring the following research question: How do elite Ironman triathletes get themselves mentally ready to be their best during competitions? The present study provides meaningful insight into how elite Ironman triathletes mentally prepare. The main areas addressed include detailed race planning, following personal routines, focusing, controlling discomfort and other distractions, dealing with nutrition, having confidence in one's abilities, using imagery, staying positive, and connecting with one's body.