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Podium: Sporting Champions' Paths to the Top

Podium: Sporting Champions' Paths to the Top

by Ben Oakley (Author)

  • Used

    Paperback 2014

    $3.24
Synopsis

What does it really take to make the podium? Which of the biological, environmental and psychological factors really shape a champion's route to the top? To answer these questions, Ben Oakley has taken the original step of combining existing research with a study of leading athletes' autobiographies. Looking at the early histories and initial challenges of serial champions in their own words, Podium sheds new light on their commonalities. A similar focus in training, similar influences around them and, above all, similar mental attributes are revealed - and tales of individual brilliance are given a fresh twist. From Ian Thorpe, Usain Bolt and Chrissie Wellington to Victoria Pendleton, Lionel Messi and Roger Federer, all we see is a smooth progression to glory, but each is a rocky path punctuated by critical episodes, and it is the response to these events that can transform talented people into winners. Podium is fascinating reading for anyone interested in the big names at the peak of their respective sports, and essential for coaches or parents of the next budding star. This enthralling read will enrich your interpretation of champions' lives and provide a map of the complex paths through sport to the podium.

$3.24

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Quantity

3 in stock

More Information

Format: Paperback
 Pages: 304
 Publisher: Bloomsbury Sport
Published: 19 Jun 2014
ISBN 10: 1472902165
ISBN 13: 9781472902160
Book Overview: Ever wondered what it really takes to 'podium'? Revealing what attributes and influences are key, this book shows what a champion needs to take home a gold medal.

Media Reviews
With painstaking research and forensic examination of backgrounds and influences, former Olympic coach Ben Oakley has delved well below the superficial and analysed a gamut of sporting giants to provide an illuminating insight into how they ascended to the pinnacle of their sport. -- Nick Townsend, sports journalist and co-author of Steve Redgrave's and Ben Ainslie's autobiographies
Ben Oakley takes the lid off the mental toolbox, decants the adrenaline and puts the passion under the microscope. For anyone who wants to know more about our sports stars than just how do you feel? this is an essential read. -- Kevin Bishop, senior producer, BBC World News
An interesting read * Rugby World *
innovative...makes engaging reading for any coach working with talented athletes. * Coaching Edge *
... a thorough and rigorous examination into what makes a champion. This is a must read for all coaches, especially those who coach young athletes who could potentially go on to be future champions. * Association of British Cycling Coaches journal *
A fantastic book that once I started I couldn't put down. It goes through what it takes to reach the top in sport and challenges perceived thoughts on this ... A highly recommended book and one I have already suggested to the athletes I coach to read an d be inspired by. * Gordon Robertson, University of Stirling, BASES journal *
Author Bio
Ben Oakley is Head of Childhood, Youth and Sport at the Open University. He was a world champion competitor and then a coach at two Olympic games for the sport of windsurfing. Ben was also an academic consultant to the BBC during and in the build-up to the Olympics, including writing for the BBC Sport website.