Mind over matter : the use of imagery amongst the Maltese olympic athletes

Abstract

Psychological skills such as imagery have an established bond in the world of sport psychology; however this relationship is seldom understood in the local context. The aim of this study was to focus on the applied use of imagery amongst Maltese Olympic athletes, which in turn, may help sport psychologists, coaches and athlete's alike better understand the importance of the Mind- Body relationship. The study was made up of three Maltese Olympic athletes, interviewed using a biographic-narrative interpretive model (BNIM). Thematic analysis yielded 15 organizing themes, which were later organized into four main themes. The findings suggested that while these elite athletes understand the benefits imagery has on their performance, the right support is needed to allow these athletes to flourish.