Abstract
Holmes and Collins present PETTLEP motor imagery — Physical, Environment, Task, Timing, Learning, Emotion, Perspective — to match real performance in the mind.
Holmes, P. S., & Collins, D. J. (2001). Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 13(1), 60–83. DOI
Key findings
- PETTLEP checklist — Vivid imagery matches real context — not generic visualisation.
- Functional equivalence — Brain and body respond as if partially performing.
- Timing fidelity — Imagined moves keep real rhythm — speed matters.
- Sport transfer — Trained imagery lifts skill when protocol is specific.
Limits
Sport imagery framework — PETTLEP is a coaching checklist; benefits depend on vivid, task-specific practice, not generic visualisation.