Wade Wilson, PhD, CMPC

Every athlete trains their body. Many train their skills. Some train their mind. But only a select few truly master the element that determines whether all that preparation actually shows up when it matters most — routines. Not the surface-level “I always do the same warm-up” version. The deeper performance architecture that explains why some […]

Have you ever wondered why sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might not perform as well as you’d like? There can be several reasons for this, and today, we’re going to explore some of the main factors that can lead to underperformance in sports. Lack of Skill or Technique Mastering the required skills is essential

Today, we’re going to talk about something that’s just as important as your physical training – it’s called Mental Performance Training (MPT). What is MPT? MPT is all about training your mind to help improve your performance in sports. You might have heard the often used quotes like:  “Sports are 90% mental and 10% physical”

Elite athletes and performers are always looking for ways to enhance their performance. Recent research suggests that one simple habit can significantly boost brainpower, productivity, and performance: listening to music. The Science Behind Music and Performance Research has long indicated that music can boost concentration and performance on cognitive tasks. It can also be a

In the world of sports, mental strength is just as important as physical prowess. For our elite youth and amateur athletes, understanding and managing emotions can be the key to unlocking peak performance. This brief guide will introduce you to 11 emotional regulation strategies that can help athletes navigate the highs and lows of their

Every coach wants their veterans to take newcomers under their wing. However, recent research published in Journal of Applied Sport Psychology reveals a psychological barrier: Status Conflict – athletes are significantly less willing to help a new teammate if that newcomer plays the same position and is perceived as high-status. In short, if a veteran

Science vs. Superstition: Does “Icing the Kicker” Actually Work?  It’s the final ten seconds of the game. The kicker steps onto the field. Suddenly, the opposing coach calls a timeout. We call it “icing the kicker,” and the goal is to make the athlete “ruminate”—or overthink—the high-stakes moment. But does it work? A 2025 brief

Every athlete has a goal. The best athletes know how to stay driven long after the initial excitement fades. But only a select few master the one thing that consistently propels them forward: motivation. Not the fleeting, “I feel pumped up” kind of motivation. We’re talking about the deep-rooted, sustainable drive that fuels their actions

In the competitive world of sports, young athletes often face immense pressure to perform, which can shake their confidence. Dr. Tamar Chansky provides valuable insights into rethinking the confidence conversation with kids. Here’s how these insights can empower elite youth and amateur athletes to build genuine self-assurance. Understanding Confidence Beyond the Surface  Confidence isn’t just about

Introduction SISU is a unique Finnish concept that roughly translates to strength of will, determination, perseverance, and acting rationally in the face of adversity. It’s about pushing through when the odds are stacked against you. There is no direct English translation, but it’s said to have a mystical and almost magical meaning. The Power of