Question and Answer for the day

  I know the mental aspect of swimming is important. Should my child be using mental skills, or is she too young?
A:  If we equate mental skills with physical skills, as we should, this question becomes easier to answer. Just as there are certain physical skills that a young swimmer is not physically, developmentally, or cognitively ready for, there are also mental skills he is not ready to learn. But, on the flip side, there are basic mental skills young athletes can be taught at this level. It is great to begin laying a foundation of mental skills (just as it is great to introduce basic physical skills at a young age). Some basic skills that can be introduced include setting goals, imagery, concentration, and relaxation. We often tell athletes to "concentrate" or "relax," but fail to teach athletes what it means or what they need to do to concentrate or relax. These are skills that coaches can work on with young athletes.