A case study of the development, implementation, and evaluation of a combined physical and mental performance enhancement program for a high school cross-country runner

Researchers suggest that a combination of physical prowess and mental toughness is required for continued optimal athletic performance. More and more athletes are realizing the benefit of individualized, sport-specific training, which often includes physical conditioning and/or psychological skills training. While professional and elite amateur athletes are often research participants, data concerning the implementation of such training at the high school level is sparse. Thus, using a single-participant case study design, the complete process of developing, implementing, and evaluating a combined mental and physical training program for a high school athlete was conducted and described. The participant was an 18-year old male cross-country runner. Sport training involved both strength training sessions and sport psychology consultations. Data included the athlete's and coach's interviews. Goal Attainment Scales, the Profile of Mood States inventory, the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2, and performance statistics for the season. While the participant did not achieve all of the goals he originally set at the season's start, he was able to set a new personal performance record during the season and he and the coach both endorsed the intervention.