Include Both the Situation and Responses
Images consist of two parts-the description of the situation and the athlete's response to it (Lang 1979). A soccer player preparing for an important competition might create a scenario in her mind by imagining the stadium, the crowd noise, and various tactical situations she could face during the game. The image should also address how she will respond, including actions, physiological feelings, and emotions. She might imagine the feel of the soccer ball against her foot, the sensation of fatigue and heaviness in her legs, and the feelings of excitement as she prepares to execute a clear shot on goal during the closing minutes of the game. If you are helping athletes create an image, describe the situation in very vivid terms, but also provide guidance as to how they should respond in specific situations.