Sports psychology is the study of the psychological factors that affect and are affected by participation and performance in sport, exercise, and physical activity. It deals with increasing performance by managing emotions and minimizing the psychological effects of injury and poor performance.  Key components are training, nutrition, recovery and attitude.

Most psychological techniques work best when the athlete receives social support while learning good habits.  Athletic effort and the quest for good habits appear to be the ingredients necessary for performance enhancement.  Regular exercise appears to improve the athlete’s sense of well being.  Principles of adherence appear to be involvement in group activities and enjoyment of the activity.

Performance can be improved by positive behavioral feedback, flexible routines, periodic exercise testing, progress charting, goal achievement, and the avoidance of negative feedback.