Overview

The proficient execution of specific skills in sport depends heavily on correct attentional focus. In simple terms, this means that an athlete must direct their concentration to the most relevant cues at the right moment to perform well. Whether it’s a gymnast preparing for a vault, a footballer taking a penalty, or a sprinter reacting to the starting gun, what they choose to focus on can make the difference between success and error.

Attentional focus refers to where and how an athlete directs their mental energy. It is not just about trying harder or thinking more—it involves selectively concentrating on the most important aspects of the task, while filtering out distractions. This ability becomes especially important in high-pressure environments where external noise, internal anxiety, and irrelevant stimuli can easily draw attention away from what matters most.

There are two main dimensions of attentional focus:

Width: Broad or narrow focus

Direction: Internal (within the body or mind) or external (in the environment)

By combining these, we get four types of attentional focus:

Broad-external – used to scan the environment for relevant information, such as a midfielder reading the positioning of teammates and opponents.

Narrow-external – used to focus on a specific object or cue, such as a tennis player watching the ball at the point of contact.

Broad-internal – used for planning or tactical decision-making, like choosing a strategy during a timeout.

Narrow-internal – used to focus on specific thoughts or body movements, such as a diver mentally rehearsing a technique.

Elite performers are often skilled at shifting their attentional focus depending on the situation. For example, during training, an athlete may focus internally to refine technique, but during competition, they may switch to an external focus to maintain flow and respond to the environment. Developing the ability to shift attention appropriately is essential for consistent high-level performance.

Incorrect attentional focus can disrupt performance. Focusing too much on irrelevant cues—like the crowd, opponents, or outcomes—can cause anxiety and reduce concentration. Similarly, overthinking technique during performance (known as “paralysis by analysis”) can interfere with the automatic execution of well-learned skills. This is particularly problematic under pressure, when athletes may revert to consciously controlling actions that should be automatic.

Coaches play a key role in helping athletes develop effective attentional control. Strategies include:

Cue words or phrases that focus attention on key actions (e.g. “elbow high” or “drive through”)

Simulation of high-pressure situations to practise maintaining focus

Mindfulness training and mental rehearsal to improve present-moment awareness

Teaching athletes to recognise and refocus when distracted

In summary, the correct attentional focus is essential for performing specific skills with precision and consistency. It allows athletes to filter out distractions, respond to the demands of the moment, and execute movements effectively. Developing this skill is just as important as technical training, as it underpins the psychological readiness needed for success in sport.