The Psyching-Up Strategies Used by Strength Sport Athletes.

A concept mapping approach.

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This study, published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research (2025) explored the psyching-up strategies used by strength athletes to enhance performance.

Key Points

• 246 strength sport athletes and coaches participated in the initial phase

• 112 participants sorted and rated the effectiveness of techniques

• 64 individual psyching-up techniques were identified

• 8 separate clusters of psyching-up strategies were identified

• “Pre-performance routines” ranked as the most effective strategy

• Males reported higher ratings for certain aggressive and negative strategies

Aim and Methods

The study aimed to identify psyching-up strategies used by strength-sport athletes and assess their perceived effectiveness in improving performance. Researchers employed a concept mapping approach, generating statements, sorting techniques into clusters, and rating their effectiveness.

Results

Eight clusters of psyching-up strategies were identified:

1. Pre-performance routines

2. Positive thoughts, feelings, images, and behaviours

3. Goals and performance accomplishments

4. Self-deprecation

5. Negative thoughts, feelings, images, and behaviours

6. Stimulation

7. Physical and physiological techniques

8. Aggressive acts

“Pre-performance routines” were ranked as the most effective psyching-up strategy. Male participants reported significantly higher ratings for “self-deprecation,” “negative thoughts, feelings, images, and behaviours,” “stimulation," and "aggressive acts".

Practical Takeaways

1. Develop a consistent pre-performance routine

2. Focus on positive thoughts and visualisations

3. Set clear goals and reflect on past accomplishments

4. Experiment with different psyching-up techniques to find what works best for you

Key Takeaways

1. The study revealed a broader range of psyching-up techniques than previously examined in the literature.

2. A revised definition of psyching-up strategies in strength sports was proposed: "strategies intending to alter activation or to enhance mental preparedness, immediately before or during skill execution".

3. Individual preferences and gender differences may influence the effectiveness of certain psyching-up strategies.

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Reference

Cusimano, Kurtis; Freeman, Dr Paul; Moran, Jason. Identifying the Psyching-Up Strategies Used in Strength Sports: A Concept Mapping Approach. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research ():10.1519/JSC.0000000000005057, March 4, 2025. | DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005057