 Is predominantly a psychological process characterised by fear or apprehension in anticipation of confronting a situation perceived to be potentially threatening.  It is a complex emotion identified by various levels of agitation.  It is usually caused by a reaction to a fear or perceived threat that generates a ‘fight or flight’ response. This simply means that our natural instincts take over, forcing us to confront the threat (fight) or escape the threat (flight).  At the extreme, anxiety disrupts and unsettles behaviour by lowering the individual’s concentration and affecting their muscular control and performance.

 Refers to a general level of stress that is characteristic of each individual. It is evident in how we respond to daily situations. What may prompt anxiety in one person may not generate it in another person.  Trait anxiety varies according to how individuals have conditioned themselves to respond to and manage the stress.  Research has established that coaches that are trusted by their athletes, can significantly influence trait anxiety through positive encouragement.

 State anxiety is more specific to a specific situation and does not reflect on a person’s individual personal traits. It is characterised by a state of heightened emotions that develop in response to fear or danger.  It can be identified physiologically through nervousness, sweating and even shaking.  A certain level of state anxiety is considered beneficial in sports such as rugby where aggression can become a natural outlet. However in sports such as archery and pistol shooting, unrestrained anxiety can hinder performance.  Examples of the presence of state anxiety include missing relatively easy shots in basketball, failed goal attempts in soccer and ‘breaking’ at the start of a running race.

 Social Stressors Pressure placed on the athlete by coaches, parents, peers and sponsors to succeed in their chosen sport.  Environmental Stressors This form of stress is brought about by changes in training or the playing environment.  Physiological Stressors Stress placed on the athlete by training and competing demands. Also includes the pressure of having to perform learned skills under the demands of competition.  Psychological Stressors The stress the athlete is under mentally. They may include the pressure to perform, arousal, motivation and goal setting.