ABSTRACT
Virtual reality – a simulation of real-world experiences – can also be used by coaches and instructors to teach closed self-paced tasks. The ritual behaviors presented in this book can be activated prior to the performance of closed self-paced tasks, and therefore can be classified as pre-performance routines. Athletes can also use a number of the pre-task pertinent routines that are presented in this book during the actual performance of the closed self-paced motor task. Two main psychological rituals that are relevant to the actual performance are gazing and focusing attention. Focusing attention on relevant cues associated with the closed self-paced task, the environment where the task is being performed is necessary for achieving success. Using gaze correctly before and during the performance of a closed self-paced task is crucial for achieving success. Studies examining the use of focusing attention instructions in the performance of closed self-paced tasks showed that external focusing attention was more effective than internal focusing attention.
