Browsing by Author "Nyman, Arnella"

Mental imagery is considered as an effective method in teaching sports because of the neuromuscular activity that occurs. Recent research shows that mental imagery enhances body awareness and concentration. The purpose of this thesis is to study how the riding instructor can use mental imagery as a method in teaching to support the pupil's physical performance and consequently his or her learning. Five semistructured in-depth interviews were done to reach the riders experiences of mental imagery. Afterwards the results were analysed deductively. Earlier research done in the field of teaching dance and Raimo Lindh's theory of learning through mental imagery were used as a theoretical framework. The results indicate that clearly presented mental imagery supports pupil's learning and improves the physical performance. The communication between the teacher and the pupil is highly significant when using mental imagery in teaching horseback riding.