Sports Visualization: Does It Work?

Posted on 22. Apr, 2010 by Todd Herman in Athletes

Fred Couples during the 1992 Masters Tournament

With a frown on his face and arms crossed an audience member at a recent speech asked, “Does sports visualization really work?”

Me, “You tell me… Do you believe it works?”

“No.”

“Well, than it doesn’t…For you that is. BUT”, with major emphasis, “for the person in the audience that does believe in it – it’s the most powerful tool they could put in their training regiment. Here let me give you an example…”

And, this is where I went on to tell the story you’re about to see.

This example is just one of hundreds of stories and examples I could share with you on how clients of mine have used sports visualization to create the games, competitions or tournaments they desire the most.

But here’s the trick…

If you decide to add this to your tool-kit; whether or not you believe what you are doing is going to help – WILL determine it’s success.

“Belief is the fuel that will fire up the engines of creation.”

Todd Herman is the Peak Performance coach and Mental Trainer to numerous professional and Olympic athletes around the world. Teams and players use Todd to prepare for major competitions, seasons or to learn some simple techniques to get the most out of their abilities. If you’re struggling with any self-doubt, negative self-talk, or would like to improve your confidence. Contact Us Today! Or, you can check out the internets largest sports challenge.

Steve

I have always said the biggest handicap anybody has is the six inches between the ears! When we dream big even if don't achieve you can usually look back and realize that you over achieved and are further along than you might have imagined without the DREAM.
Doc

Read _Awakened Imagination_ by Neville Goddard.
ingridkern

I visualized running the 60 meters in the Olympics for Austria when I was 16. Due to circumstances it took me until last year to run the 100 meters in the Senior Olympics, coming in 6th place in my age group after not running at all for 49 years. Yes, visualization works and not giving up on your dream works even better.
Todd Herman

Great stuff Ingrid... would love to hear more about your experience at the Olympics. I'm sure you have some great stories. Thanks for sharing.
Asar

Great video Todd, I believe in visualization in all parts of my life. It has help me tremendously,
I teach my son's all of my athlete's that I train to be great. I have trained them too see what they are going to do, long before they do it. I am always massaging there brains! Keep up the good work!!
Todd Herman

"Massaging their brains" - like it.

If you can't see it in your mind - you'll never hold it in your hand.
dean

i coach baseball and i use this method all the time, not only for offense but for defense also. it has produced great results and i would recommed it to any athlete. some of my players also use it for everyday life. nothing is more vivid then visualization. todd, thanks for a great article and keep doing what your doing, it work!
Todd Herman

Thanks Dean.

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