Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement
Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement (MSPE)® is a mindfulness-based mental training program for athletes, coaches, and other performers. This program was created based on research in other mindfulness-based programs and is focused on building mindfulness skills essential to consistent, optimal performance.
How is Mindfulness linked to Performance?
"Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present-moment, and non-judgementally" - Jon Kabat-Zinn
By simply noticing the different areas of emphasis in the definition of mindfulness, we can gain an understanding as to how it can be helpful to performances.
Paying Attention: Focus / attention is one of the most important aspects of performances. What we focus on can greatly influence our experiences and performances.
Purpose: When we are purposeful with our attention and actions, we are more likely to engage in a higher level of performance.
Present-Moment Focus: Peak performance and flow are linked to present-moment focus. Put simply, we perform our best when we are present and focused on the task at hand.
Non-judgemental: Athletes are often being judged by others and themselves. This judgement can impact an individuals confidence, focus, and performances in and out of their sport.
What does MSPE entail?
The MSPE program includes 6 sessions with each focusing on a specific component of mindfulness which will take you from formal practise to becoming a mindful athlete as you perform (i.e. this will be specific to you and your sport).
Each session includes theoretical guidance, personal experiences, and mindfulness practises that you can integrate in training, in games, and in everyday life.
You can learn more about the founders of the MSPE program here.
What does the research say about Mindfulness & Performance?
Mindfulness interventions decrease stress and increase performance, not only in sport, but in other aspects of life too (Vidic, Martin, & Oxhandler, 2018).
Mindfulness programs increase athletes ability to make decisions, enjoy the activity,, improve concentration, and increase ability to cope with stress (Gardner & Moore, 2004).
Mindfulness programs allow athletes to combat burnout (Gustaffson et al., 2015).
Mindfulness interventions can increase athletes focus, decrease perceived stress, and can allow athletes to be more consistent in their performances (compared to those who do not partake in mindfulness interventions) (Perry, Ross, Weinstock, & Weaver, 2017).