Visualization, or mental imagery, functions as a form of“mental rehearsal” that activates many of the same neural substrates engaged during actual physical performance. By vividly imagining both the kinesthetic (movement sensations) and sensory (sight, sound, feel)components of a skill, athletes prime their motor cortex, cerebellum, and associated proprioceptive pathways, strengthening the neural engramsunderlying skill execution without incurring physical fatigue or overuse strain.
Visualization, or mental imagery, functions as a form of“mental rehearsal” that activates many of the same neural substrates engaged during actual physical performance. By vividly imagining both the kinesthetic (movement sensations) and sensory (sight, sound, feel)components of a skill, athletes prime their motor cortex, cerebellum, and associated proprioceptive pathways, strengthening the neural engramsunderlying skill execution without incurring physical fatigue or overuse strain.