MENTAL IMAGERY AND PERFORMANCE IN ATHLETES

This literature review examines the distinct factors contributing to the efficacy of a mental imagery intervention on a sports performance task. There is minimal research measuring the various uses of mental imagery in sports and what makes imagery effective. Research on mental imagery has primarily focused on ways imagery has been used to improve skills and performance in sports and other motor tasks. However, the exact factors contributing to how mental imagery enhances skill are still in question. In addition, contemporary imagery research does not systematically accept the same view regarding the benefits of imagery used in enhancing performance tasks in sports. Therefore, this demonstrates a need for increased research to validate the acceptance of factors contributing to the efficacy of mental imagery interventions on a sports performance task. Relevant uses of imagery within sports performance are reviewed. Further, predictive factors that have been shown to determine how well an individual can perform a task using imagery are also reviewed, including imagery ability, the performer's skill level, and the imagery perspective. Findings summarized in this review display that individual differences may be a substantial factor in the efficacy of a mental imagery intervention on sports performance. This review supports the need for continued research on understanding how mental imagery is used for different functions and identifying specific mental imagery interventions for working with athletes in therapeutic settings.