ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses considerations for implementing Psychological skills training (PST), such as targeting readiness for change, self-confidence, intentions, attributions, environment, thoughts and feelings, arousal regulation, attention, motivation, expectations and habits, social support, and group cohesion. It provides an overview of potential approaches, interventions, and uses of PST strategies for developing psychological skills in individuals in order to improve adoption and adherence to exercise. Practitioners should note that a theory-based approach to designing and implementing PST interventions aids in the understanding of what, when, why, and how to include various PST strategies and techniques for sustainable exercise behavior change. Research indicates that PST can be used to improve psychological skills in a large variety of performance contexts. While such research is not without methodological limitations, findings generally indicate that PST results in positive outcomes for both sport and non-sport performers. Research has provided support for the impact of self-efficacy on behavior.
