Professional athletes are known for their strength, speed and skill, but the real secret that separates them from the rest is often invisible.
It is a mental technique that helps them perform under pressure, stay calm in intense situations and step into competition with clarity. What many people do not realise is that this technique is completely learnable. You do not have to be an elite competitor to use it, and once you understand how it works, it can transform the way you approach performance, training and even day to day challenges.
The technique is called pre performance visualisation, and it is one of the most widely used mental tools in professional sport. The idea is simple. Instead of waiting for pressure to hit, the athlete mentally rehearses the moment before it arrives. They picture the environment, the feeling, the movement and even the emotional state they want to be in. The brain processes that rehearsal almost like a real event, creating familiarity and confidence long before they ever step onto the field.
Why Visualisation Works So Well
Visualisation helps the mind prepare for what the body is about to do. When an athlete repeatedly imagines a movement or a moment, their brain builds the same neural pathways that are used in the real action. The more often this mental rehearsal takes place, the stronger the sense of readiness becomes.
This is why professionals can stay calm when the pressure rises. The moment does not feel new, because in their mind they have already been there many times before. The body relaxes, the breathing steadies and instinct begins to take over. That advantage is available to anyone, no matter their age or skill level.
How To Use The Trick Yourself
You can use this technique before training, a match or even before a big school or work event. The method is straightforward and takes only a few minutes.
-
Find a quiet moment and close your eyes
-
Picture the environment clearly
-
Imagine yourself moving with confidence
-
Think about how you want to feel, not just what you want to do
-
Repeat until the moment feels familiar
The goal is to create a mental map. The more detailed the map, the stronger the effect.
What To Visualise Before a Sporting Event
For athletes, imagining the small details is incredibly powerful. This could include the sound of the crowd, the feel of the turf, the weight of equipment or the look of the competition area. Visualising these elements removes surprises and smooths the transition from warm up to performance.
Some athletes even picture the mistakes they fear, then imagine calmly correcting them. This helps remove panic and builds trust in their abilities.
Why Coaches Encourage This Technique
Coaches value visualisation because it reduces nerves and increases consistency. It helps athletes anchor themselves, especially when emotions run high. Younger athletes benefit from it because it gives them a sense of control. Older athletes benefit because it helps them refine the mental side of their performance, which becomes more important as technique and strength plateau.
The technique is flexible, adaptable and works whether someone is preparing for a sprint, a match, a long race or even a portrait session where they want to look composed and confident.
Using Visualisation for Photography
This mental trick is also incredibly useful before a sports portrait session. Athletes who imagine their stance, their expression and their energy arrive feeling more prepared. They know the look they want, and their body responds naturally. It leads to stronger game faces, steadier posture and far more powerful portraits.
When we photograph athletes who use visualisation, the difference is obvious. Their expression feels controlled, confident and focused. It is a tool that elevates both performance and image.
Conclusion
The mental trick that professionals rely on is not a secret reserved for elite athletes. It is a simple and accessible method that anyone can learn. Visualisation prepares the mind, steadies the emotions and builds familiarity long before the real moment arrives. Whether preparing for a match, a race, a challenge or a portrait session, this technique helps athletes of all ages feel grounded, ready and confident. It is one of the most effective ways to strengthen performance without lifting a single weight, and it is a tool every athlete should try.
