Mindfulness and its relevance for sports coaches adopting nonlinear pedagogy

Abstract

Nonlinear pedagogy is an approach for structuring skills acquisition that is underpinned by dynamical systems theory and ecological psychology approach of appreciating motor behavior. Given that nonlinear pedagogy calls for a different set of coaching strategies that departs from the traditional prescriptive approach, a heightened level of mindfulness—underpinned by attention/awareness and acceptance (Bishop et al., Mindfulness: a proposed operational definition. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice 2004; 11(3): 230–241)—on coaches’ part may be particularly pertinent for facilitating this creativity-based and learner-centered approach. In this paper, the relevance of the mindfulness construct is discussed with reference to the need for coaches implementing nonlinear pedagogy to (a) develop sensitivity towards the dynamics of the movement system, (b) be open about impending variability and creativity in learner’s behavior, and (c) be accepting towards learners for who they are. The case for how coaches with heightened mindfulness might be better apt to accomplish the above is put forth. Some suggestions for future work in this area are also suggested. In line with the complex systems perspective in skills acquisition, perhaps it is not too far-fetched to consider a coach’s level of mindfulness during the coaching session as an important control parameter within a larger movement system that has a role in determining learner’s success in skill acquisition.

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“…Mindfulness practices involve paying attention to the body and becoming aware of all the various sensations and thoughts that arise during actions (Neale, 2006). Since mindfulness is associated with high levels of wellbeing (Brown and Ryan, 2003), it has been used in various fields, including sports, to enhance team cohesion, reduce anxiety and stress, prevent burnout by reducing fatigue, and mitigate the negative effects of previous adverse situations by promoting present-moment awareness (Kee, 2019;Li et al, 2019). A systematic review study stated that chronic mindfulness practice can enhance sports performance (Sappington and Longshore, 2015).…”

A brief body scan mindfulness practice has no positive effect on the recovery of heart rate variability and cognitive tasks in female professional basketball players

“…Mindfulness practices involve paying attention to the body and becoming aware of all the various sensations and thoughts that arise during actions (Neale, 2006 ). Since mindfulness is associated with high levels of wellbeing (Brown and Ryan, 2003 ), it has been used in various fields, including sports, to enhance team cohesion, reduce anxiety and stress, prevent burnout by reducing fatigue, and mitigate the negative effects of previous adverse situations by promoting present-moment awareness (Kee, 2019 ; Li et al, 2019 ). A systematic review study stated that chronic mindfulness practice can enhance sports performance (Sappington and Longshore, 2015 ).…”

Linking digital literacy and online information searching strategies of Philippine university students: The moderating role of mindfulness

“…Numerous researchers have also discussed mindfulness in the field of social psychology (Lindsay et al, 2018), health psychology (Mantzios et al, 2018), clinical and child psychology (Geronimi et al, 2019), and health psychology (Teper et al, 2013). Moreover, mindfulness techniques have found application in many walks of life, like sports (Kee, 2019), marketing (Bahl et al, 2016; Barber and Deale 2014), tourism (Frauman and Norman, 2004) and human relations (Dane and Brummel, 2013; Montani et al, 2019). Although mindfulness has been empirically investigated in various fields, its dynamics and promises have not yet been explored in the context of information-seeking behavior.…”