British athletes have been given a “mental tool-kit” for dealing with increased pressure and home crowd expectation during the London 2012 Olympics, according a sport support network.
The English Institute of Sport (EIS) called the international event the “Psychological Games” for British competitors, due to increased national pride and heightened expectations to exceed Team GB’s success in Beijing.
Scientists are working with Olympic and Paralympic athletes, coaches and support teams to help them cope with the stress, drawing on research and sport-specific data from home and away games.
Mark Bawden, head of psychology at EIS, said “The London Games pose unique challenges and opportunities for British athletes.
“The combination of home crowds, familiarity with conditions and home-based officiating and staffing can all be seen as both advantages and disadvantages.
“A home games presents a different environment which athletes need to be ready for and have the mental endurance to cope with, no matter what sport they’re in or what their medal prospects are.”
EIS provides sport and medical services to British athletes with the aim of achieving medal success in global competitive events.
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