ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the psychological side of training sessions by considering those factors which can play an important part in ensuring sessions are effective. Effective coaching utilizes instruction, modelling and questioning to help the athlete focus on the task. Robert Weinberg suggests a goal is simply defined as what the individual is consciously trying to do. Goals are best developed by both coach and athlete. Quality is really making it count. Training sessions with an accent on quality are marked by realism, perfection and effort expended on difficult-to-master skills. Feedback is the provision of information about a performance. It can take a variety of forms. Following a training session an evaluation conducted by both athlete and coach can prove helpful in preparing for future sessions. Athletes rest to aid recovery between bursts of activity and between training sessions. Quick recovery between activities can be assisted by a technique known as centering.
