Can Self-Talk Improve Athletic Performance? A Critically Appraised Topic

Clinical S cena r io : Athletes are constantly searching for alternative mechanisms to improve performance in sport. In addition to modifying physical training, psychological training tools (e.g., self -talk) have been used to elevate athletes from the average competitor. Athletes can use self -talk to navigate challenges in competition and improve self-confidence in tasks leading to potential increases in performance. However, literature relaying performance benefits for adolescent and adult athletes using self -talk is unclear. Clinical Q ues t i on: In athletic populations, does the implementation of motivational or goal -setting self -talk increase athletic performance? Su m m a ry of Key Find ings: Four studies were identified exploring self -talk on athletic performance outcomes. Methodology of included studies were randomized between -subjects, within participant repeated -measures, within subjects, and multiple baseline design. Clinical Bot t o m Line: Supporting evidence exists demonstrating that motivational and goal -setting self -talk assists physical performance in adolescent and adult athletes. St r eng t h of R ec om m end a tio n: Based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence -Based Medicine Scale, Level 2 evidence exists for self -talk affecting athletic performance.