Peak of Peak Performance

Activation is an athlete’s physical, psychological, and emotional readiness to perform. Under and over activation are physical, psychological, and emotional states that pull attention from the present moment. Think of activation as a mountain. 

Each athlete has an activation “sweet spot” where they function best. My Peak of Peak Performance Model is a visual way to understand this sweet spot.

The left side of the peak is numbered 1-4 and the right side is numbered 6-10. Consider your “peak” of peak performance to be number 5. At the peak, thinking and feeling happen in a way that facilitates your best performance. You are better able to focus, be present, and react smoothly. Learn to manage your activation levels, adjusting as needed to maintain your sweet spot. You will have an edge over those who can’t. Do this consistently by finding your 5s.

You must be familiar with the thoughts, emotions, and body sensations of your optimal activation level. To start, recall a successful performance using imagery. What were you thinking and feeling? What was your level of physical activation (body sensations, heart rate, etc?) These thoughts and feelings are your “5s.” Apply them to the Peak of Peak Performance Model. Imagery is a valuable tool, but what you remember may not be detailed enough to build your 5s from. Also, pay attention to what you are experiencing in practice and competition to determine your 5s.

Managing activation isn’t about harnessing pedal to the metal intensity. It’s about maintaining the level of activation which is most effective for the requirements of your sport and position. Each athlete’s zone is different. Also, different sports require different activation levels. Sports requiring big powerful movements are best facilitated by big activation, whereas sports with smaller, more precise movements which require refined motor skills benefit from less activation. It’s up to you to find your 5s. Play around with them, refine them, and use them to be a consistent top performer!

The Peak of Peak Performance Model serves two purposes.

The first starts with an awareness of where you are on the peak at any given time. Then involves developing the skills to move systematically from the psych up and psyched out zones to the optimal level when needed.

The second is to start your performance in the optimal mental and physical states of activation. Knowing your 5s allows you to draw them up at will. You dial in your mind and body any time you need to. Calling up and maintaining the optimal level of activation is an elite level skill. You manage thinking and feeling in a way that facilitates peak performance. You are focused, present, and perform consistently in any situation.

A case study in activation - A Tale of Two Volleyball Teams