Internal focus of attention
An internal focus of attention means directing attention at the movement itself and at parts of the body: "bend the knee", "keep the elbow in". It is useful when learning and correcting technique, but at competition time it often gets in the way of automaticity.
Definition
The internal focus of attention is Gabriele Wulf's concept: attention is directed at your own movements and bodily sensations. It helps you consciously rebuild technique, but the research shows it more often reduces the automaticity and smoothness of a movement. So it is dosed according to the stage of preparation.
How it shows up in sport
A beginner thinks "straighten the arm on the shot"; an athlete returning from injury monitors the load on a joint. In training that is appropriate, but at a competition over-controlling the body tightens the movement and feeds perfectionism in sport. Constantly digging into sensations deepens fear of making mistakes.
Related tests
A tendency to self-monitor movement and attend to the body is clarified by attentional style questionnaires in the tests section. High values suggest a risk of paralysis by analysis at competitions. It is best to go through the findings with a specialist.
Exercises
During the learning phase an internal focus is used in measured doses, through technical cues and slow practice of elements. Attention is then deliberately moved to the outcome, so the skill becomes automatic. The practices are gathered in the exercises section.
Related terms and issues
Its direct opposite is the external focus of attention. In Nideffer's classification it overlaps with the narrow internal and broad internal modes. The topic belongs to overall attentional focus.
FAQ
When is an internal focus useful and when is it harmful?
Useful when learning and correcting technique, and in rehabilitation after injury. Harmful at competition time, when too much attention to the body disrupts the automaticity of a well-practised movement.
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.