A Study of Elite Rugby Union Goal Kickers and their use of Mental Rehearsal

Abstract

This research presents a study into ten male elite Rugby Union goal kickers and their use of mental rehearsal. A semi-structured interview was used to establish their use of mental rehearsal in a competitive match and when they were away from competition, for example in training and at home in preparation for a match. The interview was also used to establish the content ofthe players' mental rehearsal. Players discussed the level of consistency within their mental rehearsal and the possible circumstances in which their routines may change as well as discovering how their mental routines developed. The results indicated that all used mental rehearsal during a competitive game in the form of consistent performance routines. There was also evidence of players using similar routines at training and other forms of mental rehearsal in preparation for a game. A number of players, however, described not engaging in formal mental rehearsal prior to a match. The implications of such findings are discussed.