Hypothetical example:
Let us have a look at a hypothetical example: two male athletes train with the same training plan, but they do not do it together. Each is in a different training space and each has his own individual approach toward the realization of the training program. Both have almost identical capacities (speed, explosiveness, reactivity), both of them have been training for the same amount of time and they both have the exact same reserves for development of explosiveness and reactivity. Let us say that up until this moment both of the athletes were motivated equally (semi-motivated). They both have basic readiness, they both have highly developed absolute power, flexibility and technical ability. However, right before the planned exercise regime for development of their explosiveness and reactivity one of them moves away to another city and has some personal issues. They both start the same training regime, for example an 8-week cycle of training (weightlifting, sprints, plyometrics, etc).
The first athlete strengthens his motivation, because he performs the training regime on home grounds, in a place where the environment is already simulative. He is also in a state that strengthens his motivation. He prepares for intense training units beforehand and picks the right time for working out. He looks forward to the training, and it excites him. Each exercise is performed with maximal intensity and quality, after training it is time to rest and regenerate.
The second athlete performs the exact same training regime, but is not motivated. He has difficulties concentrating on intensive and technically challenging execution of exercises, his thoughts are escaping towards resolving his personal issues, he does not ensure the appropriate resting time, he does not eat the right food, and his life rhythm is not suitable.
It is obvious that after 8 weeks of hard training regime and 10 days of rest, explosive and reactive power, speed and strength of motivated athlete improves. Just for how much it actually improves depends on his prior workouts and the duration of goal specific preparation. And for non motivated athlete improvements of these results are non-existent, or worse –his results can actually decline. This should not really happen to beginners; however even with less motivated beginners the improvement would be significantly less noticeable.
Conclusion:
Athletes’ motivation in all sports is of crucial importance because they must be willing to work extra hard and put an extreme amount of effort into their regular training regimes in order to achieve their goals. The right motivation gives athletes the strength to overcome fatigue, possible boredom during repetitive exercises/training regimes and excruciating pain they must work through in order to get results. It keeps them moving forward and setting bigger and bigger goals.