Psychology in Sports Coaching

The fourth edition of Psychology in Sports Coaching continues to clearly and accessibly introduce the principles and practice of sports psychology in the context of the coaching process. Drawing on the latest research and theory, the book provides the psychological tools and techniques that coaches can use to get the best performances out of their athletes. The most effective coaches understand the fundamentals of sports psychology, which include interacting effectively with athletes, creating the optimal environment, assessing the psychological needs of their athletes, and providing them with the mental training required to maximise performance.

This fully revised and updated edition provides information about to achieve this and includes five new chapters on; psychological safety, coach mental health, how coaches can become more effective leaders, how coaches can give effective team talks, and coach behaviour, as well as offering step-by-step guidance on key topics such as: Facilitating awareness through goal-setting and performance profiling Coaching specialist populations effectively Reducing favourable attitudes towards doping Developing effective coach-athlete relationships Reducing choking under pressure Mindfulness techniques Mental imagery Every chapter contains useful features to aid learning and understanding, including in-depth case studies, critical thinking questions, clear and concise summaries, and practice exam questions.

Psychology in Sports Coaching is essential for any student of sports coaching or practising coach looking to extend and develop their skills, and useful applied reading for students of sports psychology.

Adam R Nicholls is based in the School of Sport, Exercise, and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Hull, UK. He teaches a variety of modules relating to sports psychology and incorporating sports psychology within coaching practice. His primary research is related to stress, appraisal, coping, and doping among athletes. Prof. Nicholls is a Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist with the Health, Care, and Professions Council. He currently serves as an Associate Editor for Frontiers in Psychology and sits on the International Journal of Sport Psychology editorial board.