executive coach

Performance Coach for Professional Athletes: 10 Proven Strategies for Unlocking Peak Outcomes on the Field

May 17, 2025

Performance Coach, performance coach Scott Shapiro, MD for Professional Athletes – Photo Credit – iStock Ostill

Performance Coach for Professional Athletes: 10 Proven Strategies for Unlocking Peak Performance

Testimonial from Rich Fernando, Former Director of Coaching Administration, Philadelphia 76ers – Worked with Performance Coach, Scott Shapiro, MD

“I met with Scott during my first month with the 76ers. I had been tasked by our head coach to develop a more efficient meeting and learning for both players and coaches. Scott was able to give me simple yet effective insights as well as benchmarks to maintain and enhance standards. It was a very productive and eye-opening meeting. I recommended him to people within my network as well.”

Performance Coach

Case Example

When Jamal*, a professional football player, was referred to me to be his performance coach, he was struggling with performance anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and inconsistent focus during games. In addition, he was traveling often with his team and juggling a demanding training and media schedule. We worked together remotely, which allowed him to fit sessions into his routine with ease. Moreover, through our work, Jamal began to feel more centered and in control. His pre-game anxiety decreased, he reported better sleep and reaction time, and most importantly, he found himself playing with more presence and confidence. The strategies we used—some of which are detailed below—helped him unlock his potential and extend his impact on the field.

This is the type of transformation I strive for with every athlete I work with.

Leading Performance Coach – Scott Shapiro, MD

As a peak performance coach, psychiatrist, and former competitive athlete, I help professional athletes achieve their goals and perform at their highest level—consistently. My work is grounded in neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral science, combined with two decades of clinical experience and my own athletic background. I rowed for the University of Pennsylvania, ran the Marine Corps Marathon, and continue to compete in tennis. I understand the complex relationship between mindset, emotions, motivation, and cognitive performance—not just from theory, but from lived experience.

Over the years, I’ve worked with athletes who struggle with injuries, burnout, performance anxiety, fear of failure, or difficulty maintaining motivation. Many are already at the top of their game, but they want to break through to the next level. They seek an edge—not only physically, but mentally and emotionally. That’s where I come in.

Approach

Using a comprehensive, individualized approach that integrates neuroscience, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), schema therapy, executive coaching, mindfulness, and sports psychology, I help athletes train their minds with the same discipline and intentionality they use to train their bodies.

Here are ten core strategies I often incorporate in my work with professional athletes.

Visualization and Mental Imagery Training from a Performance Coach

Visualization activates the brain similarly to actual performance. By mentally rehearsing specific plays or routines, athletes strengthen the neural pathways needed for peak execution. In addition, mental imagery is a proven strategy that also reduces anxiety and boosts confidence.

Because of this science, we use vivid, multisensory exercises where athletes imagine successful performance from a first-person perspective. This may include visualizing the environment, bodily sensations, and even the emotions involved in competition.

Why It Matters:

Why it matters: Visualization can improve muscle memory, enhance motivation, and increase motor control. It is used across sports by elite performers to solidify technique and build psychological resilience (Di Fronso & Budnik-Przybylska, 2022).

Managing Anxiety and Arousal with Breathwork and Mindfulness

Anxiety and arousal are natural responses to high-stakes situations. However, excess adrenaline or tension can lead to decreased focus, shaky hands, and impaired decision-making. Breathwork helps regulate the autonomic nervous system and reduce overactivation.

I teach athletes how to activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s rest-and-digest mode—through techniques like resonance breathing and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). These help bring heart rate and breathing into sync, which increases vagal tone.

What is vagal tone? It refers to the activity of the vagus nerve, which helps regulate heart rate, digestion, and emotional state. High vagal tone is associated with better emotional regulation, focus, and resilience.

Mindfulness practices such as mindful yoga, body scanning, and sitting meditation have been shown to improve performance and reduce perceived stress in athletes (Di Fronso et al., 2022; Tebourski et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2022).

Schema Therapy for Uncovering Hidden Roadblocks by Your Performance Coach

Many athletes carry unconscious beliefs about themselves, shaped by early life experiences. Schema therapy helps identify and transform these deep-rooted patterns. For example, a belief like “I must be perfect to be valued” can lead to crippling pressure and burnout.

We use guided imagery and cognitive restructuring to challenge and reframe these beliefs.

Ravi*, a pro tennis player, believed he was only worthy if he won. We uncovered this belief and worked through it using schema techniques. Over time, he was able to play with more freedom and less self-judgment.

Reframing Failure and Building a Growth Mindset

Athletes often interpret mistakes as proof of inadequacy. I teach clients to view failure as feedback. This involves replacing all-or-nothing thinking with more realistic assessments.

We use review protocols (like post-game analysis forms) to identify what worked and what needs improvement. This reframing builds a growth mindset—seeing challenges as opportunities to grow rather than signs of failure (Deci & Ryan, 2000).

Precision Goal-Setting and Weekly Accountability Systems

Performance coaching isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about implementation. We set weekly SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) and use WOOP (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan) to anticipate barriers.

Tracking progress through shared digital platforms gives athletes immediate feedback. This creates momentum and builds trust in their own ability to grow.

Enhancing Executive Function for Strategic Thinking with Your Performance Coach

Executive functions are the brain’s command center—responsible for focus, planning, flexibility, and self-control. These are crucial for athletes who need to make split-second decisions or pivot under pressure.

We work on strategies like dual-task training (performing a cognitive and physical task simultaneously), emotional regulation exercises, and mental simulations of competitive situations.

Darius*, a team captain in pro hockey, learned to stay calm when his team fell behind. Using breath control and self-talk strategies, he maintained focus and helped lead a comeback.

Mindfulness for Performance (MFP) and In-the-Moment Focus

MFP teaches athletes to focus on the present, rather than obsess over past mistakes or future outcomes. This includes mindfulness drills that anchor attention to the body or breath.

As a performance coach, I help my clients be in the moment. This improves reaction time, decision-making, and emotional regulation. It also builds self-awareness, so athletes can redirect their focus when distracted (Tebourski et al., 2022).

Wearable Technology and Biometric Feedback for Recovery and Readiness

Wearables like WHOOP, Oura Ring, and Garmin collect real-time data on:

HRV (Heart Rate Variability): A key marker of stress and recovery
Sleep efficiency: The percentage of time in bed actually spent asleep
Recovery Score: A composite score based on physiological readiness

I help clients use this data to improve training timing, manage sleep hygiene, and optimize performance. For example, reducing screen time or caffeine after 6 p.m. can improve deep sleep and HRV.

Jordan, a pro football player*, used wearable data to fine-tune his sleep schedule. We saw a 20% improvement in his recovery scores and fewer energy crashes on game day.

Biofeedback and HRV Training for Stress Resilience

Biofeedback helps athletes learn to control internal physiological states. Devices like HeartMath’s emWave and Inner Balance monitor heart rate rhythms and teach users how to shift into a calm, focused state.

Why it matters: Higher HRV is linked to faster recovery, better focus, and improved emotional control. We also use the DAVID Delight Pro to help with sleep onset and mental clarity (MindAlive, n.d.).

Neurofeedback and Focus Training Using Wearable Tech

Neurofeedback uses EEG or light/sound stimulation to train the brain to produce desired states. For example, I recommend DAVID Delight Pro helps athletes enter deep focus or relaxation states by modulating brainwave activity.

This is particularly helpful for athletes who experience “overthinking” during competition or struggle to wind down after intense training.

Conclusion about a Performance Coach

Helping athletes reach peak performance as a performance coach is both an art and a science. By aligning the athlete’s mind, emotions, physiology, and behavior with their performance goals, we unlock their full potential—not just for a season, but for a career.

If you’re a professional athlete ready to elevate your performance—or a coach seeking support for your team—I invite you to reach out. Together, we can train your most important muscle: your mind.

Bibliography

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The ‘what’ and ‘why’ of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268.

Di Fronso, S., & Budnik-Przybylska, D. (2022). Sport psychology interventions for athletes’ performance and well-being. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 1024. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031024

Li, Y., Liu, C., Zhang, Y., & Huang, X. (2022). External versus internal attentional focus in sprint performance: A meta-analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 2319. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19032319

Lochbaum, M., et al. (2022). Self-confidence and athletic performance: A systematic review with meta-analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 1832. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031832

MindAlive. (n.d.). DAVID Delight Pro. https://mindalive.com

HeartMath. (n.d.). Inner Balance and emWave devices. https://www.heartmath.com

Oura Ring. (n.d.). Oura Ring Gen3. https://ouraring.com

Ruiz, M. C., Raglin, J. S., & Hanin, Y. L. (2022). Psychobiosocial states as mediators in the relationship between perceived stress and performance. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 812. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19030812

Tebourski, T., Martinent, G., & Latinjak, A. T. (2022). Effects of mindfulness for performance training on athletes’ mindfulness and free-throw performance. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 1315. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031315

Wang, X., Zhang, C., & Liu, J. (2022). Mindfulness training and shooting performance in basketball: A quasi-experimental study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 1210. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031210

WHOOP. (n.d.). WHOOP wearable performance tracker. https://www.whoop.com

Garmin. (n.d.). Garmin fitness watches. https://www.garmin.com

*Disclaimer: All names and identifying details have been changed to protect client confidentiality. These case studies are illustrative in nature and are not intended to represent any specific individual.

7 Tips to Energize Your Life

November 27, 2024

Executive Coach NYC Productivity Goals — source: michaelpuche

7 Productivity Strategies to Take Your Career to the Next Level

Tina*, a 27-year-old married financial analyst, reached out for help advancing her career. She was already successful but felt stuck—and wanted support from a productivity consultant to increase her energy, improve her work-life balance, and achieve a higher income.

During our first meeting, we explored her past achievements and identified her goals. Through our work together, we focused on practical tools that boosted her performance and helped her thrive both professionally and personally.

Here are seven strategies I used to help Tina—and that may help you, too.

1. Observe Rumination

Rumination is the habit of replaying the same thoughts over and over. It can drain your mental energy and leave you feeling stuck.

Trying to push the thoughts away often makes them more persistent. Instead, try simply observing and labeling them. You might say, “Oh, that’s a ruminating thought,” or “There’s my obsessive thinking.”

Research shows that naming your thoughts can reduce their intensity and help them pass more quickly.

2. Increase Structure

A structured routine creates a sense of stability and calm. Using a calendar to plan your day can improve your productivity, reduce decision fatigue, and help you stay organized.

Even adding a loose “game plan” for your day can improve your focus and energy.

3. Notice Your Self-Talk

High-achieving professionals often carry an inner voice that says they’re not doing enough. This “inner critic” may come from early experiences and can sound like:

“I’m always screwing things up.”
“This will never be good enough.”
“What if this fails?”

When you hear your inner critic, try labeling it: “Ah, there’s the inner critic.” Then, gently remind yourself: “I’m a work in progress.”

Decades of research show that how we speak to ourselves has a powerful impact on how we feel and act.

4. Improve Sleep

Restful sleep is essential for energy, emotional regulation, and mental clarity. If your sleep is suffering, consider these tips:

Limit screens three to four hours before bedtime
Stick to a consistent evening routine
Keep your sleep space calm, cool, and uncluttered
Use white noise or earplugs if needed
Exercise earlier in the day—ideally not within three hours of bedtime

Better sleep often translates to better focus and performance.

5. Make Time for Fun

Many ambitious professionals overlook fun—but doing things you enjoy is vital to mental health and motivation.

Fun doesn’t have to be elaborate. Watch a comedy special, play with your dog, spend time with friends, or revisit an artistic passion. When you regularly do something enjoyable, you’re more likely to feel balanced and energized.

6. Set Meaningful Goals

Think of your goals as a map. They guide your energy and create a sense of momentum.

Start by identifying both short-term goals (one month out) and long-term goals (within a year). The most effective goals are specific, measurable, and tied to a clear action plan. For example:

“Increase sales by $40,000 over three months.”
“Eat dinner with my family three times a week.”

Track your progress with checklists or charts to stay accountable and motivated.

Want more tips on setting goals that stick? Visit this article on setting goals with ADHD.

7. Prioritize Cardiovascular Exercise

Cardio isn’t just good for your body—it’s one of the most powerful tools for mental health and productivity.

Activities like running, biking, dancing, or swimming can boost dopamine (a key brain chemical linked to motivation) and release endorphins that improve your mood. Even 20–30 minutes a few times a week can make a noticeable difference in your energy and outlook.

Final Thoughts

Taking your career to the next level takes courage—and you’re already on the path by seeking out strategies like these. I hope these ideas help you stay energized, focused, and aligned with your goals.

For more success strategies, coaching resources, and performance tools, visit www.theproductivitycoachnyc.com and www.scottshapiromd.com.

*Disclaimer: Names and details have been changed to protect confidentiality.

Achieve Success Now with these 7 Productivity Strategies

January 2, 2019

Credit:iStock – Olga – Time Management and Productivity Coach Scott Shapiro,

Would you like to improve your focus, organization, productivity, and success?

Are you looking to take your career to the next level?

Productivity doesn’t necessarily mean working longer hours or working faster. To me, it means working more efficiently and effectively with specific strategies that work.

As an experienced productivity coach and consultant, I help people improve their focus, organization, and time management to reach their goals and succeed.

For example, take Allison*, a 28-year-old professional who completed business school last year and works in accounting for a real estate firm. She contacted me because she was ambitious and had specific goals to take her career to the next level, and she knew that she needed some new productivity strategies. For people looking to achieve their goals more effectively, like Allison, here are seven strategies that may improve your performance and effectiveness, especially within the workplace.

Success Tip 1 – Create Your Schedule The Night Before Productivity

Many people start their day by spending a lot of time trying to figure out where to start, surfing the Internet, or chatting with colleagues. A great way to start your day with a bang is to write out a schedule the night before. This is not your calendar but may include some of those items. Focus on your top priorities and anticipate any obstacles.

Success Tip 2 – Under-promise and Over-Deliver

Many of us are overly optimistic about what we can accomplish in a day. Thus, we promise our managers, families, and ourselves that we will get “just one more thing” done. This can create constant pressure and take the “wind out of our sails” when we don’t deliver.

I recommend that people promise or commit less and then as they are working, over-deliver. This allows for more success and improved productivity.

Success Tip 3 – Cluster Tasks

Answering phone calls, checking emails, and surfing the Internet are huge time sinks in our days. Thus, cluster certain tasks to specific times of day. For example, you might decide to check your emails only once in the morning and once in the afternoon. This allows you to focus on your key priorities without constant interruptions.

Success Tip 4 – Reward Yourself

Research shows that rewarding yourself improves productivity and consistency. No matter how small the task is, say to yourself “Good Job” after you have started a business proposal, returned a phone call, or completed filing a pile. When it is a larger project or goal, you might reward yourself with a walk around the park, going out to lunch with a friend at a special restaurant, or going for a massage. It is more important to acknowledge your “wins” than the actual
reward.

Tip 5 -Write Out the Steps

There are many tasks or projects we avoid because they seem daunting or confusing. An effective way to overcome this is to take out a sheet of paper and start writing out the steps. The exact order doesn’t matter.
If you don’t know how to do a particular step, write out “find out how to….”. You might also work with a colleague or friend to discuss what the steps are.

REMEMBER: Write it out. Don’t just discuss the great ideas. Then, decide what the first steps are. After you have some momentum, you can organize the steps and add any additional items.

Tip 6 – Create Goals

Create goals for different time periods including the year, quarter, and month. The most effective goals are specific and have a deadline. Also, by writing them in the present tense, it sends the message to yourself that you are going to complete it. For example, “I am reaching my sales goal of $500,000 by December 31st.”

Tip 7 – Develop Protocols

For tasks or projects that are repeated, develop a protocol. If there are ten steps for a specific task, write out a protocol that includes each of these steps. This improves the motivation to do a certain task and also
ensures that nothing slips through the cracks. It also allows the task to be accomplished more quickly.

By using some of these productivity strategies, many of my clients, like Allison, have successfully improved their professional and personal effectiveness. It has been extremely rewarding for me to be part of their journey.
I wish you the best of success on your journey to achieving your goals.