Psychological aspects of pre-start states in adolescent athletes and their impact on athletic performance

modern sports place high demands on the comprehensive training of athletes, where the psychological component plays an equally important role as the physical component. Pre-competition states are of particular importance, as they can significantly impact the performance of athletes. In sports psychology, there are four main types of pre-competition states: optimal combat readiness, characterized by focus and moderate anxiety; pre-competition fever, characterized by excessive excitement; pre-competition apathy, characterized by inhibited reactions; and pathological states, which are extreme forms of maladaptation. The formation of these conditions depends on a variety of factors: the individual characteristics of the athlete's nervous system, their age, level of training, the importance of the competition, and their current physical condition. Negative pre-competition reactions can lead to a significant decrease in performance and disruption of the training process. To prevent such conditions, it is necessary to provide systematic psychological training, including regular psychological diagnostics of the emotional state, training in self-regulation techniques, and an individual approach to each athlete. Special attention should be paid to young athletes, who, due to their age, do not yet have developed self-regulation mechanisms and are prone to increased anxiety. Effective correction of pre-competition conditions and the development of self-control skills are crucial for successful performances, especially in adolescence.

pre-start conditions, psychoregulation, anxiety, athletic performance