In this video mental Performance Consultant Mark Bowden talks about his appearance on TalkSport with Jim White, Simon Jordan & Jim White.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in understanding the psychological aspect of football.
Yet, the immense significance of the brain's role in the sport is often downplayed or not adequately comprehended. While many players, pundits, and individuals associated with the game perceive it as having a mere 'right mindset', the reality is far deeper and intricate.
A few years ago, on a talk sport show with Jim White, Simon Jordan, and Trevor Sinclair, a detailed discussion took place shedding light on this aspect.
A clip from this show elucidates some key points that Trevor highlights, which help reveal the pervasive under-appreciation of the mental aspect of football.
Trevor spoke on three significant topics: peripheral vision, motor function, and using your brain to conserve energy. Each one of these elements is indeed crucial for a player's performance on the pitch. However, a more profound understanding of the brain's involvement can potentially revolutionize how these aspects are approached in the game.
Peripheral vision is often described as keeping your head up during the match. Yet, our brains function in such a way that merely having your head up doesn't guarantee effective utilization of peripheral vision.
If the 'red brain' - a term denoting the instinctual, less strategic part of the brain - is predominantly operational, your reticular cortex might not process the visual data effectively to discern opportunities on the field.
Furthermore, when the 'red brain' is in control, the player's field of view tends to narrow, leading to the loss of the advantage offered by peripheral vision.
The same principle applies to motor function. Trevor's point about priming motor functions with movement is accurate, yet it misses an essential neuroscience fact.
It doesn't matter how well a player has warmed up; if the 'red brain' is dominant, precise movements for excellent ball control and accurate shooting may not materialize, reflecting the critical role of the brain in motor function.
Finally, the phrase 'use your brain to save running' is often interpreted as merely making better decisions. But that's a gross simplification.
The brain is not just a decision-making tool. It is the control center of our bodies, regulating everything from thoughts, movements, chemical releases, breathing, to heart rate. Recognizing this is integral for any player who wishes to improve performance significantly.
Despite the enormous influence the brain has on the game, its role remains grossly undervalued in the multi-billion-pound industry of football.
Players are coached and trained to the apex of their physical capacities, but the understanding of mental performance, arguably the foundation of all physical performance, is still not universally integrated.
This revelation is shocking considering the profound impact the right mental training can have on a player's performance.
Many have experienced transformative results through proper mental conditioning, challenging the traditional beliefs about the role of the brain in the game.
In summary, the essence of a footballer's performance isn't just about physical prowess or technique.
It revolves significantly around the brain and its functions. The understanding and management of these cognitive aspects can make a monumental difference in the game.
Every time a player steps onto the pitch, their brain becomes their most powerful tool. Recognizing, acknowledging, and harnessing this power can propel the game of football to new heights.