By Dr Kent L Bazard
EVERY athlete faces that moment – the frustrating stretch where no matter how much effort you put in, you just can’t seem to hit your mark.
The gymnast who struggles to land a new skill, the basketball player who keeps missing that crucial shot, the pitcher who can’t increase their velocity – these moments of stagnation can shake confidence and test resilience.
But they are also part of the journey to greatness.
You’re Not Alone: Even the Best Struggle
It’s easy to look at professional athletes and assume they’ve always been at the top of their game. But even the greatest have faced skill plateaus and slumps.
NBA legend Stephen Curry, despite being one of the greatest shooters in history, has had shooting slumps where nothing seemed to fall. Serena Williams has spoken about the mental battles she’s had to overcome after losses.
Baseball stars like Justin Verlander have had to rebuild their pitching mechanics after struggling with speed and control.
The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t isn’t talent – it’s perseverance and strategy.
Breaking Through the Plateau
Athletes who feel stuck often need to adjust both physically and mentally.
Here are some key strategies:
1. Shift Your Mindset with Sports Psychology Techniques
• Visualisation: Picture yourself performing the skill successfully. Studies show that mental imagery activates the same neural pathways as physical practice.
• Self-Talk: Replace frustration with encouragement. Instead of “I’ll never get this,” say, “I’m getting better every rep.”
• Cognitive Reframing: Instead of seeing failure as proof of inadequacy, see it as part of the process.
Every missed shot, failed attempt, or slow throw is a step closer to mastery.
2. Adjust Your Training
Approach
• Break it Down: Instead of focusing on the full movement, isolate smaller components.
A gymnast struggling with a backflip can work on arm positioning and takeoff separately before putting it all together.
• Slow it Down: Speed often leads to errors. Slowing down mechanics allows for better muscle memory development.
• Track Progress Differently: If results aren’t showing in competition, look at small improvements in practice – better accuracy, stronger mechanics, increased consistency. Progress isn’t always linear, but it is happening.
The Role of Coaches, Mentors, and Sports Therapists
A strong support system is essential. Coaches provide technical adjustments, but mentors and sports therapists help with the mental aspect of performance. Seeking guidance from a sports psychologist or working with a performance coach can provide fresh insights and help athletes break mental barriers.
Balancing Academic and Social Pressures
For high school and collegiate athletes, the pressure isn’t just on the field – it’s in the classroom and social circles as well.
Managing time effectively, prioritising recovery, and maintaining perspective are crucial. Here’s how:
• Time Management: Use a planner to balance training, schoolwork, and rest.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Not every moment needs to be perfect—growth comes in phases.
• Find a Support System: Surround yourself with teammates and friends who uplift rather than add pressure.
Final Thoughts
Struggles are temporary. The frustration you feel today is the groundwork for future success.
Every elite athlete has faced obstacles, but those who persist – those who continue showing up, adjusting, and believing – are the ones who break through.
If you’re feeling stuck, take a breath, adjust your approach, and trust the process.
Progress is happening, even if you don’t see it yet. And, when you finally hit that mark, all the struggle will have been worth it.
• Dr Kent Bazard, sports medicine physician at Empire Sports Medicine, specializes in ensuring athletes reach their peak performance safely. With extensive experience and a passion for sports health, Dr Bazard provides insights and guidance for athletes of all ages – men and women.
