Sport psychology reference
Reference

Self-regulation

Self-regulation is the ability to consciously manage your own state: arousal, emotions, attention and thoughts.

Definition

A set of skills for influencing yourself through breathing, the body, imagery and inner speech. The key skill behind competitive resilience.

How it shows up in sport

Well-developed self-regulation lets you get back into your working state quickly after a mistake, a distraction or a wave of nerves.

Related tests

Assessed indirectly through tests of anxiety and resilience.

Exercises

The basis of self-regulation is breathing, the body scan and self-talk cues.

Related terms and issues

See emotional resilience and coping strategies.

Related topics

See also

When you need a personal review

If the challenge recurs, affects results, or causes strong tension for the athlete, it is better to discuss it with a specialist. Sports Talk helps you find a psychologist and a format that fits the sport, age and upcoming calendar.