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The level of mental arousal is the level of excitement, anticipation, stress, aggression, apprehension and nervousness. It refers to the state of mental preparedness for participation in an activity.

Positive impact

A sprinter who can control their level of mental arousal directly before a race will be much more stable and relaxed in the blocks.

She will be more likely to start well. This leads to a better chance of winning the race.

A footballer able to control their level of mental arousal before a penalty kick can block out distractions and remain in control of the run up, contact and direction of the penalty kick.

This gives a better chance of the ball going in.

Negative impact

A golfer with too high a level of mental arousal before the first tee shot will be less able to control the rhythm of the swing and remain in control of body movements.

This will lead to a less effective swing, resulting in a higher chance of hitting the ball into the rough.

A swimmer in a final with too high a level of mental arousal will be nervous on the blocks.

He will have more chance of false starting, leading to elimination from the race.