Chimp vs Computer Brain: Part Two →
In sports, physical ability is just one part of the equation. Mental performance plays an equally important role. To understand how the brain impacts athletic performance, we can break it down into three key systems: the Chimp Brain, the Human Brain, and the Computer Brain.
The Three Parts of the Brain
The Chimp Brain — Emotional, reactive, and instinctive. This brain system often triggers quick, impulsive reactions during high-stress moments.
The Human Brain — Logical and deliberate. It allows for strategic thinking and decision-making under calm conditions.
The Computer Brain — The most important for automatic decision-making. This system stores information from past experiences, allowing athletes to react quickly without conscious thought.
How the Computer Brain Works
The computer brain operates through repetition and experience. Every time athletes train or compete, they collect data, which their brains store and use to improve future responses. This includes:
Scanning the environment
Processing information quickly
Reacting instinctively based on learned patterns
Through consistent practice, the brain’s responses become faster and more efficient.
Training the Computer Brain
Like physical skills, the brain’s ability to make quick decisions can be trained. By practicing specific scenarios, athletes can improve their ability to scan, assess, and react in real time, becoming smarter and faster on the pitch
By understanding and developing the brain’s computer system, athletes can make better decisions, faster, and with greater confidence.
