From a cybernetics point of view (Carver & Scheier, 1998), the concept of self- regulation is a complex, multilevel process that enables living systems to remain balanced.

Additionally, research in sports psychology has indicated that motor learning may be positively influenced by self-regulation and learning strategies (Singer, Lidor, & Cauraugh, 1993

A mental training program that is founded on the periodization principles should be an integral part of athletic preparation. In the preparation phase, a combination of high volume of training and low-to-moderate intensity of training should prevail (Bompa, 1999)

the main goal of periodization is to strengthen

athlete’s development over many years and to enhance his or her achievement, minimizing such obstacles as injuries, overtraining, or other impediments to progress

This may be related to the reality that effective mental training processes cannot stand alone, and should be integrated with and be paralleled to additional elements of athletic preparation, such as the physical, technical, and tactical elements, and also within

the training periodization phases (Balaque, 2000; Blumen- stein, Lidor & Tenenbaum,... See more