Meditation and breathing apps for athletes to get the most out of your mind, to optimise your physical performance
- The mind is as crucial in sport as the body, and you need to work on your mental capacity to improve your overall performance
Mental strength might be intangible, but it is as important as any physical traits in sport. It can mean the difference between dropping out of a race, winning, concentrating to keep your pace, missing a penalty or letting the stress of a loss affect your day-to-day life.
You do not wake up with a strong mind, just as you will not have strong biceps without going to the gym. Here are some apps to get you started on your journey to a stronger, more relaxed state of mind that will help optimise your physical performance. They include meditation techniques, group sessions, daily tips, inspiration and breathing habits.
Head space
In this app, you are talked through your meditation by its founder, Andy Puddicombe, who uses his experience as a Buddhist monk to form a mindful process. The meditations are “bite-size”, according to Headspace’s website. There are different sections, including one specifically for sport, with sub-heads including competition, focus, motivation and training.
MindSport
The MindSport app is designed for both coaches and athletes. For athletes, it can help you stay present in the match, game or event, helping you block out distractions. You can even do meditations with your teammates. For coaches, it reduces stress as you deal with the pressure of your team’s performance or you can organise a group session for your athletes.
