Psychology

How mindfulness-based training can give elite athletes a mental edge

With the Winter Olympics coming soon, the spotlight returns to athletes’ mental health

photo of Simone Biles at the Olympics

U.S. Olympian Simone Biles and other elite athletes are prioritizing mental health. Over the last decade, researchers have identified some tools to help competitors on and off the field.

Loic Venance/AFP via Getty Images

By Ashley Yeager

On yellow poster board, blue letters spell BELIEVE, a nod to the Emmy-winning TV show Ted Lasso. The sign hangs above mindfulness researcher Tommy Minkler’s office door at West Virginia University, a reminder to trust in the work he’s doing to help elite athletes.