ELITSTYRKELYFTARES VISUALISERINGSUPPLEVELSER OCH AVSIKTLIG TRÄNING

Sammanfattning: Imagery is an individual and cognitive process (Morris, Spittle, & Watt, 2005). This study has therefore qualitatively examined following objectives: (1) elite powerlifters imagery experiences and (2) if elite powerlifters use imagery deliberately. Five elite powerlifters participated in the study (3 men, 2 women), they were 21-37 years old (M = 27.6; SD = 6.1). The Individual Profile of Imagery Experiences in Sport (IPIES; Weibull, 2008b) was modified and used to meet the objectives for the study. Imagery was used by all elite powerlifters. Several imagery patterns were experienced, and the most common one was Good lift. A few imagery patterns were used by more than one individual; they were however experienced in different ways. The most common purpose was to increase motivation. Through imagery the powerlifters experienced both positive and negative effects. The negative effect was reported in spontaneous imagery, which was experienced by three powerlifters. Deliberate practice was categorized from several imagery patterns experienced by three powerlifters. This study supports the Analytical framework of imagery experiences (Weibull, in press).