Positive self talk is divided in two categories: positive self talk for motivation and positive self talk for technical instruction.
Positive self talk of motivation includes words such as: “strong…”, “keep up…”, “let’s
go…”, “I can…” and others that target to make the athlete more active.
While positive self talk for technical instruction includes “key words” or phrases that have to do with the right technique of the skill, such as: “I can see the target…”, “elbow up…”, “calm….” and many more.
According to Zinsser, Bunker, and Williams (2001 ) self-talk influences performance in a number of ways including the acquisition of skills, the development of self-confidence, and the self-regulation of habits.
In contrast Hardy, Hall, and Alexander,(2001 ) suggested that negative self-talk may motivate some athletes.