Developing imagery ability in esport athletes using layered stimulus response training

Abstract

Abstract For esport athletes to effectively use imagery and experience its many benefits, they must develop a collection of skills referred to as imagery ability. Layered stimulus response training (LSRT) is an evidence-based technique informed by bioinformational theory to improve how easily someone can form rich and vivid images that more closely approximate the real-life situation. In turn, having a better ability to generate and control clear and vivid images is associated with better performance and optimal mental and emotional states. The aim of this paper is to explain how sport psychologists can guide esport athletes through cycles of LSRT, which involves imaging, evaluating, reflecting, and then developing images in progressive layers of different stimulus, response, and meaning propositions. Aids to image generation and other variations of LSRT as well as future research opportunities for applying LSRT to esport are also discussed.