Customer Reviews

Mental Training for Skydiving and Life

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This was one of the best books I have ever read. It opens you up to learn about yourself and how to create a mind set that allows you to improve yourself both physically and mentally. I believe that those who look at the book cover and say "I'm not a skydiver, why would I want that book?" are truly missing out on a book that could change their outlook on LIFE. It provides mental techniques that help re-train our natural, but negative, ways to deal with stress and difficult situations that occur in everyday life. It also provides a structured program that outlines and solidifies a plan to help you accomplish any goal you set. When I finished the book, I felt refreshed and ready to apply everything I read from that moment forward. I have read it twice since. My sincerest thanks to the author John DeRosalia.

For many years I have been ploughing through libraries, second hand bookshops and, more recently the web, with the goal of finding literature on mental preparation, in order to become a focused and better prepared competitor. In my search I have found a number of inspirational and excellently written books. None of them, however, have been written by a skydiver and therefore none of them have made that connection with this sport that we are so obsessive about. This book has. The quote below opens the book and sets the scene for its content.

"Anyone compelled into the competitive arena will encounter the greatest challenge a human being can face: the current of our own thought. Although we possess an awesome power to create our reality, few ever learn the simple mental techniques that accomplish outrageous results. If we can perfectly envision our mastery then mastery becomes our domain." Ellen Reed

This book explains the steps that can take us from an average skydiver to a master in our chosen field. It leads you through exercises, hands out some tools, and gives examples of how these techniques can work for you. The author is an experienced skydiver himself and uses words and text that we can relate to our sport, whether we are National Champion 4-way team members, in a freefly team, taking part in our first regional competition, or just starting our level one AFF. I'll end with a quote from the back cover. (Pete Allum, Sebastian XL, 15 time British National Champion)

"This book gripped me. I found myself grunting approval at every turn of the page. Dr. John does a wonderful job of describing the psychological aspects of learning to skydive well. The mental world of skydiving is not only key to high performance but, for me, is its most rewarding element." (Jack Jefferies, Arizona Airspeed, three time World Champion.)

I have been a Parachute Instructor for 38 years and I recomend the book to all my students.

Regardless the sport we pick for amusement, mental training is definitely an advantage when we play it. And if we can call life a sport, instead of a mere game, this book serves this sport as well. This book offers insight in order for us to remain centered in stressful situations. Beyond mental preparation for such an extraordinary sport, it also contributes for our own understanding of who we are and therefore how to overcome weaknesses and build up strength resulting on better performance. John Derosalia has done an outstanding job putting so much wisdom in such a clear manner - a must read book.

If you are serious about your skydiving, you must get a hold of this book. I'm sure you heard, or read Jack Jeffries' review of this book, he's right. Skydiving, as are other sports, is a mental game. MORE so than other sports because we only have about a minute of "pratice" time, each time we go up. That is important to remember. The author explains simply the techniques and exercises he uses and teaches to fly with proficiency. You'll breeze through it with his plucky attitude, and personal stories that relate to the ideas he teaches you. You won't be disappointed! And like the title says, it will help you in life as well. Mental training is where it's at. Get into the zone and WIN competitions!

As a non skydiver I found this book to be in tune with life in general. Not only did it get major points with me for its realistic view on human behavior but it gave me tools to use in places that I was helpless before. I participate in team sports and this book has been instrumental in MY PART as a team member. I have several friends that play college and high school level team sports and they have all found this beek to be very helpful in how they relate to their team and the teams goals. I thank the man who wrote this book for including everyone and not just making it for skydivers. John DeRosalia had writtin this book in such a way that I feel anyone who is alive on this planet can relate to its content, sports or no sports. This book was meant for everyone, I am sure of that.

Using this book and some other training I was able to gain the tools needed to finish my AFF and do it in style. After failing my level 4 I needed a boost. After reading this and realizing that a lot of what I was going through was normal, and getting my mind in check, I went out and nailed the rest. I've got 12 jumps now and gaining more confidence all the time. Thanks John!!

Bill K.

If you are a competitive skydiver, it's worth picking up. However, there are better books for non-skydivers, like "The Pursuit of Excellence"

Excellent book. Applies to all parts of life, not just sports performance. Gives the best explanation of how your thoughts impact your performance that I have ever read.

I have read alot on facing doubts and fears. This is the best. It has helped me be so much more excited about my first jump next week. A must read for self control.