When Your Chimp Takes Over: On the Pitch and in Life →

Inside your brain, there’s a constant battle between two sides: your “chimp” brain and your human brain. The chimp brain is the emotional, instinctive part—quick to react, quick to protect, and often quick to explode. It lives in the limbic system, an older part of the brain responsible for survival instincts like fear, anger, and aggression.

Ever felt a rush of frustration when someone dribbles past you? That instant snap—that’s your chimp kicking in.

It’s not just in sports. When someone scares you, or grabs your stuff and won’t give it back, and you get mad before you even think—that’s chimp mode.

Why It Matters

Your chimp isn’t bad—it’s trying to help. But it can lead to poor choices if you don’t recognise when it’s in control: snapping at teammates, arguing with the ref, or reacting without thinking.

The key is awareness. When emotions surge, pause. Breathe. Ask yourself: Is this my chimp? That moment gives your human brain—the calm, logical part—a chance to take over and respond wisely.

Train the Mind

Everyone has a chimp. You can’t get rid of it, but you can manage it. The best athletes don’t just train their bodies—they train their minds, too.

Recognise your chimp. Take control. Make better choices— in sport and in life.