Sport psychology

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Sport psychology is defined as the study of the psychological basis, processes, and effects of sport.^[1] One definition of sport sees it as "any physical activity for the purposes of competition, recreation, education or 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 affects psychological, social, and physical factors. Sport psychologists may 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 to stick to an exercise program. A psychologist is someone that helps with the mental and emotional aspects of someone's state, so a sport psychologist would help people in regard to sports, but also in regard to physical activity.^[3] In addition to instruction and training in 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]

Sport psychologists may 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^[which?] and their exercise or sport affect the different areas of their lives (social interactions, relationships, mental illnesses, and other relevant areas).