Sport psychology

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Sport psychology is defined as the study of the psychological basis, processes, and effects of sport.^[1] Sport is defined as any physical activity where the individuals engage for competition and health.^[2] Sport psychology is recognized as an interdisciplinary science that draws on knowledge from many related fields including biomechanics, physiology, kinesiology and psychology. It involves the study of how psychological factors affect performance and how participation in sport and exercise affect psychological, social, and physical factors. Sport psychologists teach cognitive and behavioral strategies to athletes in order to improve their experience and performance in sports.

A sport psychologist does not focus solely on athletes. This type of professional also helps non-athletes and everyday exercisers learn how to enjoy sports and stick to an exercise program. A psychologist is someone that helps with the mental and emotional aspects of someone's state, so a sports psychologist would help people in regales to sports, but also just physical activity.^[3] In addition to instruction and training of psychological skills for performance improvement, applied sport psychology may include work with athletes, coaches, and parents regarding injury, rehabilitation, communication, team building, and post-athletic career transitions.^[4]

A sport psychologist would also work on helping athletes and non-athletes alike to cope, manage, and improve their overall health not only related to performance, but also in how these events and their exercise or sport affects the different areas of their lives (social interactions, relationships, mental illnesses, and other relevant areas).