Competitive anxiety
Competitive anxiety is anxiety that arises specifically around being judged on your result at a competition.
Definition
A specific form of anxiety tied to the competition situation and the fear of being judged. It has cognitive (thoughts) and somatic (body) components.
How it shows up in sport
It peaks before the start and at the decisive moments; for some it builds long in advance, for others right before going out.
Related tests
Measured with dedicated tests of pre-competition anxiety.
Exercises
Grounding, breathing and working with your inner dialogue all work.
Related terms and issues
See anxiety in sport.
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.