Feb 10 • 12:37 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany SZ

Sports psychologist at the Olympics: "Whoever learns this gains an advantage"

Tom Kossak, a sports psychologist, is providing mental coaching to athletes at the Olympics, emphasizing that mastering mental strategies can give competitors an edge.

During the Olympic Winter Games, sports psychologist Tom Kossak has relocated his work from Munich to Livigno, Italy, where he will be providing psychological support to athletes over a two-week period. As a Diplom-Psychologe and Systemic Therapist, Kossak has a notable academic background, having earned his PhD at the Technical University of Munich with research focused on stress and neuroendocrinology. His expertise is critical for athletes competing in high-pressure environments such as the Olympics.

In interviews, Kossak discusses key aspects of mental training for athletes, including how teams react after conceding a goal and how athletes assess risks in their performance. He believes that adapting to mental challenges, particularly in the face of societal pressures from social media, is essential for athletes seeking to achieve their best performance. Kossak's work highlights not only the psychological aspect of sports but also the importance of preparation in managing mental stress and enhancing focus.

Kossak emphasizes that learning specific mental tricks can significantly improve an athlete's performance, potentially leading them to Olympic success. Through this psychological support, he aims to help athletes better navigate the mental aspects of competition, thereby making them more resilient and strategically aware in their approach. His insights underline the growing recognition of the role psychology plays in sports, particularly at an elite level like the Olympics.

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