In preparation for the 10th Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG) in Mauritius July 19-28, 2019 |22 June 2019

Simulation training

Simulation training is a powerful tool to enhance athlete’s performance in preparation for the Indian Ocean Island Games in Mauritius from July 19-28, 2019.

What is simulation training?

Simulation training is a popular technique used in many domains, including aviation, the military, medicine, music and theatre, and in sport. The main aim is to prepare athletes to effectively handle the pressure in competition.

It is well known that the best athletes make extensive use of simulation training by approaching routines, plays, in practice as if they were in real competition. Simulation typically involves the athletes wearing the clothes worn in competition and following the same preparation routines.

Seychelles’ athletes, if possible, can dress in their uniform before the games and rehearse certain plays with the strengths and weaknesses of specific opponents in mind.

Other aspects of the competition environment also may be replicated to make the situation as realistic and real as possible. Examples: swimming and team sports may preview an important event by holding a mock competition in practice that is started with officials and watched by spectators or equipment can be used to create the usual noise and commotion that would be present at the Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG).

Mimicking details that are usually unique to competitions helps athletes to become desensitised to potential distracters and stay focused. As well as becoming more comfortable with performing under these conditions. It will also give the athletes a sense of confidence that they can be successful when those situations really arise in competition. Athletes will be in a better position to handle fear and worries.

Distractions can include:

● Trash taking

● Physical intimidation

● External environment conditions: crowd, noise, cold or heat, wind, sun

● Internal distractions (e.g feeling of anxiety over analysis, regretting mistakes made, worrying about performance).

It is very important at this stage of training for coaches to start training their athletes in different situations that they will be facing during the IOIG. This is although those techniques should be explained to athletes by a mental coach during a workshop with coaches and athletes, but unfortunately it did not happen.

I am only trying to make a small contribution through media. Any tools that you can use to be successful go for it.

Team Seychelles we are right behind you, go for gold!

Maurice Denys (Mr)                                                                                                              

Certified Mental Coach (CMC)

S.N.H.S.Dip (Sports Psychology)                                                  

S.N.H.S.Dip (Life coaching)