# data[].attributes.body
Attentional control refers to an individual's capacity to choose what they pay attention to and what they ignore. This involves maintaining concentration on appropriate cues.

In doing this the number of errors caused my other distractions can be reduced. Effective concentration can be linked with being 'in the zone' or a 'flow state'.

Attentional control like all other stress management techniques can be refined and practised. To improve attentional control the performer must remove all negative thoughts and feelings as these are needless distractions.

Key words such as 'focus' and 'concentrate can remind a player to concentrate. In a match thinking about the score is a common distraction and can reduce attentional control. Relaxing whenever the performer has the chance is a way of improving attentional control. For example the backs in rugby would be able to do this when a scrum is occurring.

If a skill is repeated for example a serve then a constant routine or ritual such as the number of times you bounce the ball can improve attentional control. Breathing control also improves concentration.

# data[].attributes.headline
Progressive
muscular relaxation (PMR) - Nicole

# data[].attributes.subject
Progressive
muscular relaxation (PMR) - Nicole

# data[].attributes.body
Somatic anxiety can sometimes be associated with
muscular tension therefore progressive muscular relaxation is useful for
relaxing the body. Progressive muscular relaxation is achieved by tightly
contracting muscles and then holding them in a state of extreme tension for a
few seconds, before relaxing the muscles as much as possible. You then consciously relax the muscles further in your mind. It is important
that this is done progressively along with a breathing rhythm. This technique
works as by tensing the muscles first you are able to relax them more, it also
depends on learning to concentrate on systematically reducing tension starting
at the periphery and then progressing to the head.

# data[].attributes.body
Biofeedback uses physical measurements to record the reduction in anxiety that can be achieved by reducing somatic anxiety, progressive relaxation techniques, breathing techniques, goal setting and thought stopping. When the results of different methods are compared, the athlete will know which method works best for them. Biofeedback is therefore a physical way of testing which anxiety counter method is best for them.

Common types of biofeedback include brainwaves, muscle tone, skin conductance, heart rate and pain perception. These factors contribute to anxiety and can be controlled. The biofeedback uses different methods to control these factor and manipulate anxiety to achieve optimum performance.

E.g. performer is attached to a monitoring device (HR monitor) - performer tries to calm down in order to reduce their HR (increased HR is a sign of anxiety in situations). They can then see their HR lowering on the monitor which means they are reducing their anxiety level

# data[].attributes.body
Becky Harris Attentional Control

# data[].attributes.body
Have a read through this...