PonyExpress
In the Starting Line-Up
- Joined
- Feb 12, 2006
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When a person is under acute emotional stress, such as a fight or flight situation, certain physiological changes occur to the human body. Circulation alters, and the Blood is drawn away from the extremities and toward the body's core. This change in circulation is reflected in altered heartrate, breathing patterns, and a sudden lack of coordination, especially in the hands and feet. Sport is a measure of man's ability to master himself in these moments, governing his instincts while still executing refined skills. Complex motions, especially involving the use of the arms and hands, become especially difficult. In real life I would put accurately firing a rifle in battle in this category, and in sports the act of throwing, catching and hitting a ball, among others.
I think 99% of people struggle in these situations, although with additional exposure over time they may learn to master their fear and adrenaline somewhat. This process explains why highly refined athletes like Steve Young, Peyton MAnning and Roger Clemens suddenly lose their coordination, are unable to throw strikes, hit open receivers or even think clearly, doing the inexplicable due to some innate emotional instability.
I think 1% of humanity has an innate genius whereby they naturally master this physiological process. They either are unaffected by the change in circulation, or the change, by some quirk of fate, does not even occur. I believe That is Tom Brady's gift. His talent does not consist in rising to the occasion under pressure, but merely in remaining himself, and staying the same. Therein lies his genius.
I think 99% of people struggle in these situations, although with additional exposure over time they may learn to master their fear and adrenaline somewhat. This process explains why highly refined athletes like Steve Young, Peyton MAnning and Roger Clemens suddenly lose their coordination, are unable to throw strikes, hit open receivers or even think clearly, doing the inexplicable due to some innate emotional instability.
I think 1% of humanity has an innate genius whereby they naturally master this physiological process. They either are unaffected by the change in circulation, or the change, by some quirk of fate, does not even occur. I believe That is Tom Brady's gift. His talent does not consist in rising to the occasion under pressure, but merely in remaining himself, and staying the same. Therein lies his genius.
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