Realism is a way of thinking that believes some things in nature are real and exist independently of what we think, believe, or do (Blackburn, 2005). Realists think that truth is when what we believe in our minds matches what exists in reality. They believe that our current understanding of reality is not perfect, but we can improve it over time. Realism is different from idealism and other ways of thinking that say reality is based on our perceptions or beliefs (Brock & Mares, 2014; Mares, 2007).
In sports, realism focuses on how we judge or make decisions in sports, rather than the specific content of those judgments (Dixon, 2003). Krane and Baird (2005) posit that different people have different opinions and beliefs about sports, and realists think that some opinions are better supported by good arguments, not just because a certain group of people endorses them.
Realism influences the beliefs and values of athletes, officials, and others who can influence behavior related to exercise and performance. It can involve using objective tools to measure exercise, like heart rate monitors, or using assessments to understand how the brain and body are working. This helps set goals and choose effective strategies to improve performance. For athletes, being realistic means considering practical questions like when and where to train, which events to participate in, and what resources are available. These questions depend on the athlete’s realistic approach to their career.
By exploring different perspectives and understanding how culture affects thoughts and behaviors in sports, we can find new ways to solve problems and improve sports psychology. Other ways of thinking and research methods can also help us make progress in applied sport and exercise psychology (Poczwardowski et al., 2004).
Blackburn, S. (2005). Truth: A guide. Oxford University Press. Brock, S., & Mares, E. (2014). Realism and anti-realism. Routledge.
Dixon, N. (2003). Canadian figure skaters, French judges, and realism in sport. Journal of the Philosophy of Sport, 30, 103 116.
Krane, V., & Baird, S. M. (2005). Using ethnography in applied sport psychology. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 17, 87 107.
Mares, E. D. (2007). Realism and Anti-realism. McGill-Queen’s University Press.
Poczwardowski, A., Sherman, C. P., & Ravizza, K. (2004). Professional philosophy in the sport psychology service delivery: Building on theory and practice. The Sport Psychologist, 18(4), 445 463. Available from https://doi. org/10.1123/tsp.18.4.445.