The relationship between sports and psychology

Sports have numerous positive effects starting from a very young age. They boost our confidence, strengthen social connections, and can even ease interactions. They teach discipline and attention, and help us to thrive in various social situations and assert our interests.

At different ages, children should be introduced to the world of sports with different psychological approaches. The Swedish model is the best example of this, where mental preparation has been part of physical education classes since the '80s, starting from first grade. However, sports in old age are just as important as in childhood. Physical and mental health preservation through exercise is crucial in every stage of life. We discussed this extensively in the following interview:

One of the most important issues in sports is regularity. Outstanding results cannot be achieved in just one or two weeks, so it’s better to think about long-term planning rather than sprinting. This brings up the topic of motivation, meaning the reasons why individuals begin to develop and strengthen their bodies. During the conversation, we explain in detail the role of external and internal motivation, and then we touch upon the flow experience in sports.

Unfortunately, sports also carry risks. If we overdo workouts, eat improperly, or do not allow ourselves enough recovery time, it might cause more harm than benefit. Occasionally, the phenomenon of exercise addiction arises. Body image issues and eating disorders can also cause significant problems on an individual level and in social relationships. Aggression in sports is more a product of the athlete's personality than the sport itself, and this is also discussed in the interview. Stay tuned!