Welcome to Episode 2 of "Beyond the PULSE", where we dive into the critical intersection of sports psychology, mental and physical health, and the cutting-edge science shaping the future of sports. In this episode, our host, Nikolai Manchev, sits down with renowned sports psychologist and scientist, Afke van de Wouw.

🔴 Today's Topics:

• The Importance of Mental Health in Elite Sports & The Holistic Approach to Athlete Performance
• The Psychology of High Performance: Differences between Elite and Professional Athletes
• Nurturing Youth and Coaches: Building a Strong Mentality
• BONUS: Understanding and Managing Mental Load

📢 Special Guest: Afke van de Wouw

Afke shares her invaluable insights on the mental health challenges faced by elite athletes, the evolution of attitudes towards mental health in sports, and the importance of a holistic approach to athlete well-being. She also discusses how coaches can foster a positive mental environment and highlight successful programs that support mental toughness and resilience.

✨ Key Highlights:

• Common mental health challenges and their impact on performance
• Effective strategies for maintaining mental resilience under pressure
• The critical role of mental health in transitioning from pre-elite to elite levels
• The importance of addressing mental health in young athletes and supporting coaches
• Comprehensive strategies to manage mental load and prevent burnout

🎥 Watch (YouTube) or Listen to the Full Episode to Discover:

• How the holistic approach benefits athletes and sports organisations (and their staff)
• Real-life examples of successful mental health programs in sports
• Practical tips for athletes to balance their mental and physical loads

Stay tuned until the end for Afke's favourite sports moments and some fun insights into her journey.

🔔 Plug-Ins:

• Afke Van de Wouw LinkedIn: https://nl.linkedin.com/in/afkev
• WOUW Performance Coaching: https://www.wouwpc.nl/
• PULSE Sport: https://www.pulsesport.tech/
• Beyond The PULSE YouTube Channel (for the video episode): https://www.youtube.com/@PULSESport_channel

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