Athletes should focus on tactical and psychological aspects
AFTER putting in the hard yards since the 2016 Rio Games, it is now time for the national contingent to focus on the finer details as they head into the Tokyo Olympics, which begin on Friday.
Sports science specialist Dr Ahmad Naim Ismail said athletes should now focus on tactical and psychological aspects ahead of their respective competitions in Tokyo.
“There is not much you can do to improve your fitness over the next few weeks before the competition. I believe the athletes are fit for the challenge” said Dr Naim on Saturday.
“I believe they have already entered the tapering phase. However, they will now have to maintain various performance variables specific to their respective events.
“The focus should now be more towards the tactical aspect. The athletes should not only participate in match simulations but also analyse their rivals’ strengths and weaknesses. It is to prepare them with suitable strategies.
“The psychological aspect is also very important now, especially following the numerous challenges caused by Covid-19. I believe our (national team) sports psychologists are aware of this.
“Building self-confidence is also key at this stage. An athlete must possess a winning mentality to do well at the highest level because the margin between winning and losing can be very close.
“It is all about fine-tuning their preparations to peak at the right time. Of course, this is easier said than done.”
Naim has his money on national track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang to end the nation's long wait for a first Olympic gold medal.
“I believe our best chance of winning a gold is through Azizulhasni, who has been consistent in recent seasons.
“From a sports science perspective, he is a fascinating athlete because, biomechanically, he is at a huge disadvantage (due to diminutive stature), yet he can produce amazing results.
“He also has incredible mental fortitude.”