The skills learned on the field, court, or track should last a lifetime. While trophies gather dust, the ability to handle pressure, bounce back from setbacks, and stay focused on a goal are qualities that define success in all areas of life. The practice of sports psychology for young athletes is about more than just improving athletic performance; it’s about building character. It teaches young people how to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, and believe in themselves. By focusing on the mental game now, we are equipping them with the resilience and confidence they will need for future challenges in the classroom, their careers, and beyond. Contact Us Key Takeaways Treat mental training as seriously as physical practice: A strong mindset is a core part of an athlete's toolkit, not an optional extra. Integrating mental conditioning into a training regimen creates more consistent, confident, and resilient performers. Incorporate small mental exercises into daily routines: Building mental toughness doesn't require hours of extra work. Simple habits like visualization before bed or deep breathing during water breaks make these skills automatic and effective under pressure. Focus on developing life skills, not just athletic skills: The resilience, focus, and confidence gained through sports psychology extend far beyond the game, preparing young athletes for challenges in the classroom, their careers, and their personal lives. What is Sports Psychology? (And Why It's a Game-Changer for Young Athletes) Think of sports psychology as strength training for the mind. It’s the practice of using mental skills to improve athletic performance, handle pressure, and increase enjoyment of the game. For too long, we’ve focused almost exclusively on the physical side of sports—drills, conditioning, and nutrition—while leaving the mental game up to chance. But the mind is a powerful tool, and learning how to use it effectively can be the difference between a good performance and a great one. This isn't about "fixing" a problem; it's about adding a new set of tools to an athlete's toolkit. Sports psychology helps young athletes understand how their thoughts and emotions impact their actions on the field, court, or track. It gives them strategies to stay calm, focused, and confident, even when the stakes are high. By integrating mental training, we empower athletes to not only reach their potential but also to build resilience that serves them long after the game is over. The Science of a Strong Mindset So, how does it actually work? Sports psychology gives athletes practical techniques to manage the mental side of competition. It teaches them how to handle the anxiety that comes with a big game, channel their emotions productively, and build unshakeable confidence. Through skills like positive self-talk, effective goal-setting, and learning how to reframe mistakes as opportunities, young athletes can develop a stronger, more resilient mindset. It’s about turning down the volume on the inner critic and turning up the focus on the task at hand, giving them control over their mental state and, ultimately, their performance. Mental vs. Physical Training: Finding the Balance A healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body, especially in youth sports. While physical practice builds muscle memory, mental training builds the focus and grit needed to execute under pressure. The great news is that mental toughness isn't something you're born with—it's a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time with the right approach. Our research shows that a balanced training regimen, one that values mental conditioning as much as physical conditioning, creates more consistent, confident, and well-rounded athletes. It’s about creating harmony between what the body can do and what the mind believes it can achieve. Essential Mental Skills for Peak Performance Physical talent can take an athlete far, but the mental game is often what separates the good from the great. Developing a strong mindset isn't about magic; it's about building specific, trainable skills that allow you to perform your best when it matters most. Just like you drill physical techniques, you can practice mental skills to become more focused, confident, and resilient. These skills are the foundation of peak performance, helping you handle pressure, bounce back from setbacks, and stay motivated through the highs and lows of your athletic journey. By honing these abilities, you're not just becoming a better athlete—you're building a toolkit for success that extends far beyond the field or court. Sharpen Your Focus and Concentration The ability to lock in and tune out distractions is a superpower in sports. Great plays happen when you're fully present, not worrying about a past mistake or the crowd's noise. Sports psychology provides tools to help you maintain that laser focus, manage distractions, and stay calm under pressure. Techniques like visualization, where you mentally rehearse a successful performance, and mindfulness can train your brain to stay in the moment. This allows you to execute with precision, even in the most challenging situations. By practicing these skills, you can strengthen your concentration just like any other muscle, giving you a critical edge over the competition. For athletes looking to improve, mastering focus is a fundamental first step. Build Unshakeable Confidence True confidence comes from within, not just from the scoreboard. It’s the deep-seated belief in your abilities, even when you’re facing a tough opponent or coming off a loss. Building this kind of confidence is an active process, and it's something that parents and guardians can help nurture. It involves challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with positive self-talk. Instead of dwelling on a mistake, you can learn to tell yourself, "I've got this next time." Visualization is another powerful tool; by repeatedly imagining yourself succeeding, you train your brain to expect success. This mental practice builds a foundation of self-belief that isn't shaken by a single bad game, helping you perform with courage and conviction. Develop Resilience and Mental Toughness Sports are full of challenges—tough losses, grueling practices, and moments of self-doubt. Mental toughness is what allows you to face these obstacles head-on and keep moving forward. It’s the resilience to bounce back from a mistake, the grit to push through a difficult training session, and the strength to handle the pressure of competition. This skill isn't just for game day; it equips you to manage the demands of being a student-athlete, balancing sports with school and life. Developing mental toughness means learning to see setbacks as opportunities for growth. It’s a core component of long-term success and is essential for any athlete aiming to reach their full potential through consistent performance management. Set Effective Goals and Stay Motivated Motivation can feel fleeting, but effective goal-setting gives it a solid foundation. Instead of vague ambitions like "get better," it's more powerful to set SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. For example, a basketball player might aim to "increase my free-throw percentage by 5% over the next month by practicing 50 extra shots after every practice." This approach breaks a big objective into manageable steps. Achieving these small goals creates a sense of accomplishment that fuels your drive and keeps you focused on the long-term vision. It’s a strategy that coaches can use to help athletes build momentum and see clear, consistent progress in their development. Putting Sports Psychology into Daily Practice Mental skills aren't something you're just born with; they're built, sharpened, and maintained through consistent effort, just like a perfect free throw or a powerful swing. Integrating sports psychology into an athlete's daily life doesn't require hours of complex training. It’s about weaving small, intentional habits into their existing routines. These practices help athletes build a stronger mind-body connection, giving them the tools to perform well when it matters most. The goal is to make mental training as normal as physical conditioning. By focusing on simple, actionable techniques, young athletes can learn to manage their thoughts, control their emotions, and prepare their minds for competition. Think of it as adding new plays to your mental playbook. The four strategies below are fundamental exercises that can be practiced anywhere—on the field, at home, or in the locker room. They are the building blocks for developing a resilient and confident athletic mindset that translates into better performance and a greater love for the game. Use Visualization and Mental Imagery Visualization is essentially a mental rehearsal. It’s the practice of closing your eyes and picturing yourself performing successfully in your sport. It’s like watching a highlight reel of your best moments before they even happen. For example, a swimmer can visualize their perfect dive, feeling the water and the power in each stroke. This mental practice helps build confidence, manage pre-game jitters, and even improve muscle memory. By repeatedly imagining a successful outcome, you’re training your brain and body to work together to make it a reality. Just a few minutes of focused visualization each day can make a significant difference in how you approach and execute during competition. Master Positive Self-Talk The conversation you have with yourself in your head has a huge impact on your performance. Negative thoughts like, “I hope I don’t mess this up,” can create anxiety and lead to tentative play. Mastering positive self-talk is about intentionally changing that inner dialogue. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, you shift your focus to what you can control. Replace negative thoughts with constructive, confident ones like, “I’ve trained for this moment,” or “Focus on the next play.” A great first step is to simply notice your negative thoughts without judgment, then create a positive statement to counter them. This practice helps build a more resilient mindset, which is a key part of our research into what makes top athletes succeed. Practice Simple Breathing and Relaxation Exercises When pressure mounts, our bodies often react physically—our heart rate increases, our muscles tense up, and our breathing becomes shallow. Simple breathing exercises are a powerful tool for calming your body and clearing your mind. Taking slow, deep belly breaths sends a signal to your brain to relax, helping you stay present and focused. You can do this anytime: during a timeout, between plays, or even on the bus to a game. Try the box breathing technique: inhale for four seconds, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold for four. This simple practice helps lower stress, reduce fear, and allows you to play more freely and instinctively. It's a skill that parents can easily practice with their athletes at home. Create a Winning Pre-Game Routine A consistent pre-game routine helps create a sense of familiarity and control, which is incredibly calming in a high-stakes environment. It’s not about superstition; it’s about preparing your mind and body for what’s ahead. Your routine can include anything that helps you feel focused and ready, like listening to a specific playlist, doing a dynamic warm-up, or spending five minutes visualizing success. A crucial part of this routine should be setting process-oriented goals for the game—things you can control, like your effort or your communication with teammates. This shifts the focus from the pressure of winning to the execution of your skills, a strategy that coaches can help every player develop. Overcoming Common Mental Hurdles in Sports Every athlete, from the rookie to the seasoned pro, faces mental challenges. The pressure to perform, the fear of making a mistake, the weight of expectations—these are all part of the game. The difference between good and great athletes often comes down to how they handle these hurdles. Learning to work through these common mental blocks is a skill, just like dribbling or throwing. It’s not about never feeling nervous or frustrated; it’s about having the tools to respond effectively when you do. This is where mental training becomes a true game-changer. By understanding these challenges and equipping yourself with simple, effective strategies, you can learn to stay composed, focused, and confident, no matter what the scoreboard says. Let's walk through some of the most frequent challenges and how you can start building the mental resilience to overcome them. Manage Performance Anxiety and Stress Those pre-game jitters are completely normal; they mean you care about what you’re doing. But when those nerves turn into overwhelming anxiety, performance can suffer. As experts at Jersey Watch explain, "Anxiety can make it hard to focus and make good decisions." Your mind starts racing, your muscles get tight, and suddenly, simple plays feel impossible. To manage this, try a simple grounding technique. Focus on the feeling of your feet on the ground or the specific texture of your uniform. This pulls your attention away from "what if" worries and back to the present moment. The goal isn't to eliminate nerves but to learn how to perform with them. Understanding what triggers your anxiety is the first step toward building a stronger athletic mindset. Conquer the Fear of Failure What if a mistake wasn’t an end result, but a piece of information? The fear of failure can be paralyzing, causing athletes to play tentatively and avoid taking risks. But the truth is, mistakes are essential for growth. It’s about reframing your perspective. As sports psychology consultant Eli Straw points out, "Seeing mistakes as chances to learn helps them get over this fear and actually improve." Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, ask yourself, "What did that play teach me?" This simple question shifts your focus from judgment to curiosity. It turns a fumble or a missed shot into valuable feedback. When you stop seeing failure as something to be avoided at all costs, you free yourself up to play with confidence and creativity. Control Your Emotions Under Pressure A bad call from the ref, a frustrating turnover, a missed opportunity—it’s easy to let emotions run high in the heat of competition. While passion is a powerful fuel, uncontrolled frustration or anger can quickly derail your performance. The key isn’t to suppress these feelings but to acknowledge them and quickly refocus. A powerful and simple tool is deep breathing. Taking a slow, deliberate breath can calm your nervous system and clear your mind, helping you stay present. Being "present" means you are less stressed, less fearful, and can play more freely. Create a quick reset routine for yourself—like one deep breath paired with a keyword like “focus”—that you can use after a mistake to get your head back in the game. Handle External Pressure and Expectations It’s natural to want to make your parents, coaches, and teammates proud. But sometimes, the weight of those expectations can feel crushing. When you’re too focused on the outcome—winning the game, scoring the most points—the joy of playing can disappear, replaced by pressure. Instead, concentrate on what you can control. As recommended by Kids' Sports Psychology, "Encourage athletes to focus on small steps to overcome challenges, instead of just the big goal." Shift your focus from "We have to win" to "I'm going to make three sharp passes this quarter." This process-oriented approach puts you back in the driver's seat. It helps both parents and athletes celebrate effort and personal progress, which is the real foundation for long-term success. The Role of Parents and Coaches in Mental Training As a parent or coach, you are the most influential part of a young athlete’s support system. Your role extends far beyond teaching physical skills or cheering from the sidelines; you are the primary architect of their mental and emotional environment. The way you communicate, the values you emphasize, and the support you provide directly shape an athlete’s confidence, resilience, and love for the game. By intentionally focusing on mental training, you give them tools that will help them succeed not just in their sport, but in all areas of life. For coaches and parents alike, understanding this responsibility is the first step toward raising a mentally strong athlete. Create a Supportive Environment The foundation of any effective mental training is a safe and supportive environment. When young athletes feel encouraged and cared for, they are more likely to stay engaged and perform their best. Research shows that "kids who play in a supportive and caring environment are more likely to stick with the sport. They also show more empathy, control their emotions better, and are happier." This means creating a space where the focus is on effort and personal growth, not just winning. Celebrate progress, acknowledge hard work, and let athletes know it’s okay to make mistakes. This psychological safety gives them the freedom to take risks and push their limits without fear of judgment. Weave Mental Skills into Practice Mental skills aren't something to save for a crisis; they should be a regular part of an athlete's routine. "Learning mental skills when young helps them become good habits that athletes use as they get older. This means they won't struggle later in high school or college because they already have a strong mental foundation." Coaches can integrate simple exercises into every practice, like spending two minutes on visualization before a drill or teaching deep breathing during water breaks. Parents can help by discussing goals at the dinner table or talking through challenges in a constructive way. By making these skills a normal part of the conversation, you build them into an athlete’s DNA. Use Positive Communication and Reinforcement The words you use have a powerful impact on a young athlete's mindset. Positive communication is about more than just saying "good job." "Coaches and parents should use kind words, a good tone of voice, and positive body language. Avoid harsh or critical messages, even in writing." Instead of pointing out what an athlete did wrong, frame feedback constructively. For example, rather than saying, "You keep dropping the ball," try, "Focus on watching the ball all the way into your hands." This approach builds confidence and keeps athletes receptive to feedback, creating a positive cycle of improvement and motivation. Address Resistance to Mental Training Some young athletes might be hesitant about "mental training," thinking it’s only for those who are struggling. It's important to frame it as proactive strength-building for the mind, just like lifting weights is for the body. "It's a common mistake to think that sports alone will build character; it takes specific guidance." Explain that the world’s best athletes all work on their mental game to get an edge. You can demystify the process by starting with simple, relatable activities. By normalizing mental skills as a key part of an athlete's development, you can overcome resistance and show them it’s just another tool for reaching their full potential. Common Roadblocks in Mental Training (And How to Get Past Them) Starting a mental training program is a huge step, but like any new skill, it comes with challenges. It’s easy for athletes to get discouraged when they don’t see immediate results or when mental practice feels like just another thing on their to-do list. The key is to anticipate these hurdles and have a plan to overcome them. By understanding the common roadblocks, you can help your young athlete build a mental skill set that is not only effective but also sustainable for the long haul. Let’s look at some of the most frequent obstacles and how you can work through them together. Make Mental Practice a Consistent Habit Just like a free throw or a swing, mental skills require consistent practice to become automatic. It’s not enough to only think about mindset on game day. The real progress happens when mental exercises are woven into an athlete's daily routine. Learning these skills when young helps them become good habits that athletes can rely on as they get older. This means they won't struggle as much later in high school or college because they already have a strong mental foundation. Encourage your athlete to dedicate just five to ten minutes each day to a mental skill, whether it’s visualization before bed or deep breathing on the way to school. Shift Focus from Winning to Process Every athlete wants to win, but an obsession with the final score can create crippling pressure and anxiety. It's great to have big goals like winning a championship, but it's more important to focus on the steps to get there. This is the "process." When an athlete concentrates on their effort, technique, and small, controllable actions, the outcome often takes care of itself. This shift helps them stay motivated and find value in their hard work, even after a loss. As a coach or parent, you can help by praising effort and execution over just the final score. This reinforces that growth is just as important as the win. Help Athletes See the Value in Mental Skills Some young athletes might be skeptical about mental training, viewing it as less important than physical practice. The best way to get their buy-in is to connect mental skills directly to their performance. Sports psychology helps young athletes in many ways, like building confidence and handling pressure. Explain how visualization can help them perfect their form or how positive self-talk can get them through a tough conditioning drill. When they see that a stronger mind leads to better results on the field or court, they’ll be more motivated to put in the work. It teaches them to believe in themselves, not just rely on winning. Balance Physical and Mental Training Time Finding time for mental training can feel like a challenge in an already packed schedule. But it shouldn't be viewed as a separate, optional activity. Understanding and using psychology in youth sports is essential for young athletes' enjoyment, well-being, and performance. Instead of adding another hour to the schedule, integrate mental skills into existing physical drills. For example, have athletes practice their breathing techniques during water breaks or use cue words to stay focused during repetitive drills. This approach reinforces that mental and physical performance are completely intertwined, leading to a more holistic performance management strategy. How to Build Mental Toughness for Game Day Game day is where all the hard work pays off, but it’s also where the pressure is highest. Mental toughness is what separates good athletes from great ones when the game is on the line. It’s not about being fearless or emotionless; it’s about managing your thoughts and emotions so you can perform at your peak, no matter the situation. Think of it as your mental armor. It helps you stay steady when the crowd gets loud, when a call doesn’t go your way, or when you’re facing a tough opponent. The best part? Mental toughness isn’t something you’re born with. It’s a skill you can build, just like your physical skills. It takes consistent practice to strengthen your mind, but every athlete has the potential to become mentally tough. By focusing on specific strategies, you can learn to handle pressure, recover from errors, and stay locked in from the first whistle to the last. Understanding your own mental game is the first step, and tools that provide developmental feedback can show you exactly where to start. The following strategies are practical ways to start building that resilience so you can be your best when it matters most. Stay Calm Under Pressure Pressure is a privilege—it means you’re in a situation that matters. But it can also feel overwhelming. The key is to learn how to manage the stress of competition so it works for you, not against you. When you feel your heart racing or your thoughts spiraling, bring your focus back to your breath. A few slow, deep breaths can calm your nervous system and clear your mind. It’s a simple but powerful tool to stay grounded in the present moment. Developing a consistent pre-game routine can also help you feel in control and ready to compete. By practicing how to stay composed, you can perform at your best even in the most high-stakes situations. Bounce Back from Mistakes Every single athlete makes mistakes. Michael Jordan missed thousands of shots. The difference between good and great athletes is how quickly they recover. Instead of dwelling on an error, learn to see it as an opportunity for growth. A mistake provides instant feedback on what you need to work on. To move on quickly in a game, try using a mental "reset" button. You could use a simple word like "next" or a physical cue like clapping your hands to signal that the last play is over. This mindset shift builds resilience and allows you to focus on what’s next, which is the only thing you can control. For parents and coaches, framing mistakes as learning moments is crucial for an athlete's development. Keep Your Head in the Game So much of a game is outside of your control—the referees, the weather, the crowd, your opponent. Wasting mental energy on these things will only hurt your performance. Instead, focus on the factors you can control, like your effort, your attitude, and your focus on the next play. When you feel your attention drifting, bring it back to a specific, controllable task. This could be your defensive stance, your communication with a teammate, or your breathing. By narrowing your focus to your own actions, you can maintain your composure and stay engaged in the game, no matter what distractions come your way. Turn Setbacks into Strengths Mental toughness is forged in difficult moments. Losing a tough game, getting benched, or dealing with an injury can be discouraging, but these challenges are also your greatest opportunities for growth. A growth mindset allows you to see setbacks not as failures, but as chances to get stronger. After a tough loss, ask yourself: What did I learn from this experience? How can I use it to improve? This reflective process helps you build resilience and turns a negative event into a positive catalyst. Remember, mental toughness is a skill that athletes cultivate over time, and facing adversity is a necessary part of that journey. The Lifelong Benefits of a Strong Mindset The mental skills an athlete develops don’t just disappear after the final whistle blows. The focus, resilience, and confidence gained through sports psychology are tools they will carry for the rest of their lives. Training the mind prepares young athletes not just for the next game, but for the challenges and opportunities that await them in school, their careers, and their personal relationships. This is where the real power of mental training lies—it builds better athletes and, more importantly, well-rounded, capable people who are prepared for whatever comes their way. The work they put into their mindset now pays dividends for decades. Build Character and Essential Life Skills Sports psychology is a powerful tool for character development. It teaches young athletes to source their confidence from within, based on their effort and growth, rather than relying solely on winning. They learn practical techniques like positive self-talk and visualization to believe in themselves and handle pressure. These aren't just tricks for game day; they are essential life skills that translate directly to handling a tough exam, a job interview, or any high-stakes situation. By learning to manage their own mindset, young athletes build a foundation of self-reliance and integrity that will serve them long after they hang up their jerseys. Improve Performance in the Classroom The mental toughness required to push through a grueling practice or a tight competition is the same strength that helps a student succeed academically. A strong athletic mindset is crucial for handling the demands of both rigorous training and challenging schoolwork. The discipline, goal-setting, and perseverance honed on the field directly apply to studying for finals, writing papers, and managing long-term projects. Athletes who train their minds are better equipped to stay focused, manage their time effectively, and bounce back from a poor grade, ultimately helping them reach their full potential in the classroom. Foster Social and Emotional Growth Sports are inherently social, and mental training helps athletes make the most of those interactions. When kids participate in a supportive and caring team environment, they learn far more than just the rules of the game. They develop empathy by understanding a teammate's struggles, learn to control their emotions after a tough loss, and find joy in collective success. These experiences are fundamental to their social and emotional growth. Learning how to communicate effectively with coaches and peers, resolve conflicts, and be a supportive teammate builds an emotional intelligence that is vital for creating and maintaining healthy relationships throughout life. Develop Leadership Skills for the Future Mental training provides a unique platform for developing future leaders. By understanding the psychology behind motivation, teamwork, and communication, young athletes learn what it takes to inspire and guide others. They learn to lead by example, offer constructive feedback, and maintain a positive attitude, even when things get tough. These leadership qualities are not just for team captains; they are foundational skills for any future career or community role. Sports psychology gives athletes a framework for improving their relationships with coaches, parents, and teammates, which is the very essence of effective leadership. How to Start Mental Training with Young Athletes Getting started with mental training doesn't have to be intimidating. The key is to introduce concepts simply and build from there. Just like an athlete learns the fundamentals of their sport, they can also learn the fundamentals of a strong mindset. By integrating a few simple practices, you can help young athletes build a mental toolkit that will support them on and off the field for years to come. Here’s how you can begin. When Is the Right Time to Begin? The best time to start is now. Many young athletes do great in practice but struggle during actual games because of how they think and feel. Learning mental skills when they're young helps these skills become good habits that athletes use as they get older. You don't need to start with complex theories. Begin with simple ideas like focusing on the next play instead of a mistake, or using a deep breath to calm nerves. For parents, the goal is to plant the seeds of mental resilience early, allowing them to grow alongside physical abilities. Find the Right Sports Psychology Support Finding the right support system is crucial for an athlete's mental development. While one-on-one coaching can be a fast way to help athletes improve their mental game, support starts with creating an environment where talking about mindset is normal. As a coach or parent, you are a key part of this system. For more structured guidance, tools that provide data-driven insights can be incredibly valuable. Our assessments are designed to pinpoint specific areas for growth, helping young competitors build confidence and perform better not just in their sport, but in all aspects of life. Make Mental Training Part of the Routine For mental skills to stick, they need to be practiced just like any physical drill. The most effective approach is to weave them directly into an athlete's existing schedule. Encourage practices that help with mental and physical well-being. This could be as simple as a two-minute visualization exercise before practice or a quick journaling session after a game. Help athletes set realistic goals, track their progress, and celebrate their achievements, big or small. By making mental training a consistent part of their performance management, it becomes a natural and essential element of their development, rather than an afterthought. Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions Is sports psychology just for athletes who are struggling or have a “problem”? Not at all. Think of it this way: you don’t wait until your body is weak to start strength training. Sports psychology is proactive training for the mind. It’s designed to give every athlete, from the confident starter to the developing player, a set of tools to perform more consistently. It’s about sharpening a skill set that helps good athletes become great, especially when the pressure is on. My child is already physically talented. Why is mental training so important? Physical talent is a fantastic foundation, but it's the mental game that allows that talent to shine consistently. The strongest, fastest, and most skilled athletes can be sidelined by self-doubt, anxiety, or a lack of focus. Mental training builds the resilience to bounce back from a mistake and the confidence to take the game-winning shot. It ensures that an athlete's mind is just as prepared for competition as their body is. At what age should an athlete start learning these mental skills? You can introduce the core concepts of mental training at any age. For younger athletes, it might be as simple as learning to take a deep breath to calm down or focusing on one positive thing they did in a game. As they get older, the concepts can become more structured, like goal-setting and visualization. The goal isn't to add pressure but to build a foundation of healthy mental habits that can grow with them. How can we add mental training to an already packed schedule? The best approach is to integrate mental skills into routines that already exist, rather than adding another separate practice. For example, you can practice visualization for a few minutes before bed or use the car ride to a game to talk about process-oriented goals. Coaches can incorporate breathing exercises into water breaks. It’s about weaving these small, powerful habits into the fabric of an athlete's day, not finding another hour for them. What’s the difference between a pre-game routine and a superstition? A pre-game routine is about preparation and control. It includes intentional actions—like listening to a specific playlist, visualizing success, or doing a dynamic warm-up—that help an athlete feel focused and ready. A superstition, on the other hand, is often based on luck and things outside of an athlete's control, like wearing the same unwashed socks. Routines build confidence, while superstitions can create anxiety if they aren't performed perfectly.