Myth: MST is for Elite Athletes Only
Some coaches erroneously believe that MST can only help perfect the performance of highly skilled competitors. As a result, they shy away from MST rationalizing that because they are not coaching elite athletes, mental skills training is less important. It is true that mental skills become increasingly important at high levels of competition. As athletes move up the competitive ladder, they become more homogeneous in terms of physical skills. In fact, at high levels of competition, all athletes have the physical skills to be successful. Consequently, any small difference in mental factors can play a huge role in determining performance outcomes. However, we can anticipate that personal growth and performance will progress faster in young, developing athletes who are given mental skills training than in athletes not exposed to MST In fact, the optimal time for introducing MST may be when athletes are first beginning their sport. Introducing MST early in athletes' careers may lay the foundation that will help them develop to their full potential