Dr. Alison Arnold, Ph.D.

Dr. Alison's Regional Congress Sessions

Region 8 - Friday
8:30 - 9:30am
Amethyst II
The Confidence Code: Inspiring Fierce Certainty in Your Athletes
Region 8 Friday Athlete Wellness
Presenter(s): Dr. Alison Arnold, Ph.D.
Session Summary

A heartening and insightful session that delves into the critical role coaches play in shaping the confidence of gymnasts. This presentation emphasizes how a coach’s support and approach can be the key to unlocking an athlete’s belief in their own abilities. It’s not just about perfecting routines; it’s about instilling a lifelong sense of self-assurance. With a blend of engaging stories, accessible psychological principles, and practical techniques, coaches are equipped to foster an environment where athletes grow in confidence, both in gymnastics and in life.

2:45 - 3:45pm
Amethyst II
Setbacks & Comebacks: Mental Tools and Techniques for WHEN, Not IF
Region 8 Friday Athlete Wellness
Presenter(s): Dr. Alison Arnold, Ph.D.
Session Summary

A practical and insightful look into the inevitable challenges gymnasts face and how they can overcome them. This session acknowledges that fears and setbacks are a natural part of any athletic journey, especially in high-stakes sports like gymnastics. Coaches will explore various tools, strategies, and techniques to help athletes not only cope with setbacks but also use them as catalysts for comebacks. The presentation combines real-world examples, theory, and hands-on approaches to equip coaches with the knowledge to guide their athletes through tough times and help them emerge stronger and more resilient.

4:00 - 5:00pm
Amethyst II
Balks and Blocks: Simple Tooks to Beat the Fear Beast
Region 8 Friday Athlete Wellness
Presenter(s): Dr. Alison Arnold, Ph.D.
Session Summary

Every coach gets frustrated with mental blocks and we know the athletes and parents get upset as well! This presentation will teach coaches the practical tools they need to work with athletes experiencing mental blocks. It will teach a SYSTEM of tools to help with these athletes, examine where blocks originate, and give them practical tools to help re-wire stuck neural pathways so their athletes can complete the skills. When coaches have a system to work with blocks, they’ll be less frustrated and more compassionate with their athletes.