Exploring the concept of ‘psychological readiness’ and the role it plays within the practice of Sports Rehabilitation

This study explored the concept of psychological readiness and the role it plays within the practice of Sports Rehabilitation. The study adopted a qualitative approach when exploring the concept of psychological readiness and the role it plays within the practice of sports rehabilitation with five sport rehabilitators, both current third-year students and ex-students. Semi-structured interviews were devised and conducted, where the data obtained was analysed using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) (Smith, Jarman, & Osborn 1996; Smith & Osborn, 2015). Findings revealed that each of the sport practitioners had different levels of knowledge and experiences in the practice of sport rehabilitation, however there was little to no training in the area of sport psychology. This finding supports Arviven-Barrow (2010) and Brewer (2009; Brewer et al., 2002) biopsychosocial model. Further findings show that there is little development further afield about the importance of psychology being used with injured athletes during the process of rehabilitation. Future researchers should consider expanding on further experiences and perceptions with sport rehabilitation lecturers and the perceptions of an injured athlete. Researchers could also delve more in exploring the concept of psychological readiness and applying some form of psychological provisions to sport practitioners through the sport rehabilitation process. Practical implications for sport practitioners could consider further knowledge on the psychological aspects and interventions within the sport rehabilitation program for their clients to progress.