Shelton, T. O. (1978). The content and effect of "psyching up" strategies in weightlifters. Unpublished master's thesis, The Pennsylvania State University.

Under various experimental manipulations, the best lifting performances were obtained under a "psych yourselves" treatment as opposed to baseline and distraction (counting backwards by 7's from a four-digit number) conditions.

A post-experimental interview revealed the psyching strategies to be combinations of all or some self-efficacy statements, performance imagery, self-generated arousal, and attentional focus techniques.

Implication. The best preparations occurred when the athlete controlled content and implementation. No external interaction, such as a coach talk, was necessary to promote the best performances.

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