A recent article from SPRING researcher Kath O’Brien in collaboration with researchers from the University of Queensland delves into anticipation in sport.
Research reveals that skilled athletes rely on the brain’s predictive processes to interpret cues, recognise patterns, and respond quickly to unfolding plays. Neuroscientists note that without this ability to predict, athletes would struggle to keep up in fast-paced sports.
Experts suggest that athletes of all levels can develop this kind of anticipation. By learning to focus on key contextual cues, recognising patterns, and using trial-and-error experiences to refine predictions, athletes can strengthen their own “game sense.”
This scientific understanding of anticipation in sports offers insights into how coaches and players can work together to improve on-field decision-making and performance.
Read more here on how brain science and predictive processing are shaping the future of sports performance.