Research issues in the psychological preparation of adolescent gymnasts: A literature review

Abstract

In the article, the researcher conducted on the psychological preparation of adolescent gymnasts is analysed and systematised. Additionally, the factors that play an important role in the psychological preparation of gymnasts are discussed and psychologically interpreted. In the article, the author emphasises the importance of the individual psychological characteristics of gymnasts in preparing them for the competition. Furthermore, it is noted that the gymnast-coach relationship and their interactions with peers have a significant impact on the psychological preparation of gymnasts. This, in turn, leads to a change in the psychological climate of a team. According to literature, psychological preparation, or psychological skills training as it is also called, constitutes part of the whole process followed by an athlete during their athletic preparation. Weinberg & Williams suggest the best time to implement such a program is off-season or preseason. Psychological preparation nowadays constitutes an integral part of any sports programme aimed at preparing athletes for the achievement of high performance. Indeed, the importance of psychological skills training in developing athletic performance is widely acknowledged, and the number of athletes implementing psychological training strategies is increasing. Success in the psychological preparation of athletes can be achieved by having the right influence on their psyche. It is impossible to train athletes successfully without considering the psychology of the individual and the team. This is especially important in the field of gymnastics