Martial Attitude Voice

Discover more about certain aspects of ethical boundaries and practical examples for sport psychology practice and referrals by AAT Supervisors Professor Mark B. Andersen and Dr. Daryl B. Marchant here below: Andersen, M. B. (Ed.). (2000). Doing sport psychology. Human Kinetics. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2001-00237-000Andersen, M. B. (2005). Sport psychology in practice. Human Kinetics, Cop. Order it on Amazon. Marchant, D., & Gibbs, P. (2004). Ethical considerations in treating borderline personality in sport: A case example. The Sport Psychologist, 18(3), 317–323. https://doi.org/10.1123/tsp.18.3.317 If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Follow Dr. Daryl B. Marchant on LINKEDIN. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this moving and insightful episode of Martial Attitude Voice, we sit down with Andrew Jones, a blind runner who completed the London Marathon on April 27th. What began as a one-off challenge turned into a personal mission marked by resilience, adaptation, and a deep love for the sport. Andrew shares the mental and logistical hurdles of running blind, the delicate balance between performance and injury, and how family, community, and mindset keep him going through the miles.From caffeine mishaps to smart training decisions, Andrew opens up about what it takes to pursue an “arbitrary” sub-4-hour goal—years after his personal best—and why the act of running itself remains so meaningful. A powerful conversation about challenge, perspective, and doing what you "shouldn't be able to do."His reflection on being a source of inspiration for his son brings the narrative full circle. Faced with the very real prospect of losing his sight, he could have easily surrendered to fear, pity, or despair. Instead, he chose to continue forward—not in denial of the risk, but in defiance of the limitations it threatened to impose. In doing so, he reframed vulnerability as strength, turning a moment of potential collapse into one of quiet resilience. It's this act—not of bravado, but of deliberate courage—that speaks most powerfully to his character. For his son, and perhaps for himself, he became living proof that adversity doesn't have to define you; it can refine you. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this powerful and emotionally candid episode of Martial Attitude Voice, Kijuan Amey joins Mathias Alberton to share his extraordinary story of survival and adaptation following a life-altering motorbike accident that left him blind and coping with a traumatic brain injury. Kijuan opens up about the deep and ongoing impact the accident had—not only on his physical abilities but also on his memory, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships.Through a conversation marked by honesty and vulnerability, Kijuan describes the daily challenges of navigating life with unfiltered emotional responses and short-term memory loss, and how these affect his sense of identity and connection with others. He offers listeners a raw insight into what it's like to feel misunderstood, to live with invisible impairments, and to work tirelessly at regaining control, one day at a time. This is a conversation about resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of empathy and, crucially, of the will to take actions to regain one's independence. Follow Kijuan on LINKEDIN and INSTAGRAMOrder Kijuan's book "Don't focus on why me" on AMAZON  If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Petah Gibbs offers a critical perspective on the use of psychological testing and mental skills training in youth sport. Drawing from his clinical and sport psychology experience, he warns against the growing trend of treating children's sport like professional sport, particularly through premature psychometric assessments like the Athlete Apperception Test (AAT). While these tools can be powerful in the hands of trained clinicians, Gibbs argues they should never be used to fast-track children into performance optimization pipelines driven by commercial or parental pressures. Instead, sport in childhood should remain a space for play, social development, and emotional learning—without the weight of adult expectations.Dr. Gibbs also reflects on the sensitive application of projective tools like the AAT with younger populations. He emphasizes their true value lies not in diagnosis or performance enhancement, but in creating space for meaningful conversation—especially with children who struggle to engage verbally. The discussion touches on ethical practice, the risks of amateur misuse, and the importance of clinical supervision when working with emotionally vulnerable young athletes. Most poignantly, he underlines the deep integration between sport and life: challenges on the field are rarely isolated, and any responsible psychological intervention must take into account the full human experience of the child—not just their performance. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this episode, Dr. Petah M. Gibbs returns to unpack the thinking behind the supplementary set of images in the Athletic Apperception Technique (AAT). We explore why selecting specific cards can risk shaping the narrative, the importance of using the full set, and how grief, arousal, and self-diagnosis often surface in unexpected ways. Petah also shares insights on balancing emotional intensity across cards and what happens when elite athletes mislabel performance arousal as anxiety.Also, an evocative story from Paul's early career involving a response to a projective image helped us delve into how such techniques allow access to unconscious material, often unfiltered and deeply personal. Dr. Gibbs highlights the significance of silence in therapeutic work—how it invites genuine reflection and unprompted free association, echoing the principles of classic psychoanalysis. We also touch on the nuanced themes that may emerge in such assessments, including identity, sexuality, and interpersonal dynamics, illustrating that responses often transcend any fixed domain, including sport.A thoughtful, rich continuation for anyone using or curious about the AAT.Also, If you are interested in Dr. Gibbs original research study, you can find it here: Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. B. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projective assessment method: The Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, 9(1), 33–48. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676x.2016.1180637AbstractWithin the field of applied sport psychology, there is an increasing appreciation for diversity of training models, research methodologies, and therapeutic approaches. For example, psychodynamic formulations and interpretations have begun to appear more frequently in the sport psychology literature. In keeping with emerging psychodynamic viewpoints, we believe the time is right to introduce a qualitative sport-specific projective instrument: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). The AAT represents a new technique based on psychodynamic theory and established projective test construction principles. It was designed primarily as a clinical tool for practitioners and not as an instrument for quantitative research into personality. It does, however, have potential research applications, especially in clinical sport case study research and narrative analysis investigations. The AAT produces an idiographic understanding of athletes' characteristics, anxieties, and motivations (both conscious and unconscious). We briefly review the literature on the development of projective techniques, explain the rationale underlying the development of the AAT, and present three sequential studies to explain the AAT image selection procedures that led to the final product.---Discover all Dr. Petah M. Gibbs research here:Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B. (2023). Projective techniques: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M.(Eds.) Applied Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to HelpingClients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Marchant, D. B., & Gibbs, P. M. (2023). Psychological Assessment: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M. (Eds.) AppliedSport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to Helping Clients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B., (2017). The Athlete Apperception Technique: Manual andMaterials for Sport and Clinical Psychologists. London, Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. A. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projectiveassessment method: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport,Exercise and Health, 1-16. doi: 10.1080/2159676X.2016.1180637Davidson, K., McLaren, S., Jenkins, Corby, D., M., Gibbs, P. M, & Malloy, M. (2016). Internalizedhomonegativity, sense of belonging, and depressive symptoms among Australian gay men. Journalof Homosexuality. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1190215McLaren, S., Gibbs, P. M., & Watts, E. (2013). The inter-relationships between age, sense of belonging, anddepressive symptoms among Australian gay men and lesbians. Journal of Homosexuality. 60(1), 1-15. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2013.735933McLaren, S., Turner, J., Gomez, R., McLachlan, A. J., & Gibbs, P.M. (2013). Housing type and depressivesymptoms among older adults: a test of sense of belonging as a mediating and moderating variable.Age and Mental Health, 17(8), 1023-1029. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2013.805402Gibbs, P. M. (2010). Psychological assessment: Projective techniques. In S. J. Hanrahan & M. B. Andersen(Eds.), Routledge handbook of applied sport psychology: A comprehensive guide for students andprofessionals (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.--- If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this third episode with the Athlete Apperception Technique's author Dr. Petah M. Gibbs, we unpack the art of crafting projective images for the AAT, exploring how ambiguity opens a door to the athlete's internal world. From latent stimulus meaning to the powerful pull of interpersonal relationships, we unpack what makes a picture more than just a picture. Why focus on relationships before performance themes? What does it mean when an athlete doesn't mention anyone else at all? Tune in as we discuss the psychology between the lines—on the track, the course, or the court.Also, If you are interested in Dr. Gibbs original research study, you can find it here: Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. B. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projective assessment method: The Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, 9(1), 33–48. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676x.2016.1180637AbstractWithin the field of applied sport psychology, there is an increasing appreciation for diversity of training models, research methodologies, and therapeutic approaches. For example, psychodynamic formulations and interpretations have begun to appear more frequently in the sport psychology literature. In keeping with emerging psychodynamic viewpoints, we believe the time is right to introduce a qualitative sport-specific projective instrument: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). The AAT represents a new technique based on psychodynamic theory and established projective test construction principles. It was designed primarily as a clinical tool for practitioners and not as an instrument for quantitative research into personality. It does, however, have potential research applications, especially in clinical sport case study research and narrative analysis investigations. The AAT produces an idiographic understanding of athletes' characteristics, anxieties, and motivations (both conscious and unconscious). We briefly review the literature on the development of projective techniques, explain the rationale underlying the development of the AAT, and present three sequential studies to explain the AAT image selection procedures that led to the final product.---Discover all Dr. Petah M. Gibbs research here:Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B. (2023). Projective techniques: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M.(Eds.) Applied Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to HelpingClients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Marchant, D. B., & Gibbs, P. M. (2023). Psychological Assessment: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M. (Eds.) AppliedSport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to Helping Clients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B., (2017). The Athlete Apperception Technique: Manual andMaterials for Sport and Clinical Psychologists. London, Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. A. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projectiveassessment method: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport,Exercise and Health, 1-16. doi: 10.1080/2159676X.2016.1180637Davidson, K., McLaren, S., Jenkins, Corby, D., M., Gibbs, P. M, & Malloy, M. (2016). Internalizedhomonegativity, sense of belonging, and depressive symptoms among Australian gay men. Journalof Homosexuality. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1190215McLaren, S., Gibbs, P. M., & Watts, E. (2013). The inter-relationships between age, sense of belonging, anddepressive symptoms among Australian gay men and lesbians. Journal of Homosexuality. 60(1), 1-15. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2013.735933McLaren, S., Turner, J., Gomez, R., McLachlan, A. J., & Gibbs, P.M. (2013). Housing type and depressivesymptoms among older adults: a test of sense of belonging as a mediating and moderating variable.Age and Mental Health, 17(8), 1023-1029. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2013.805402Gibbs, P. M. (2010). Psychological assessment: Projective techniques. In S. J. Hanrahan & M. B. Andersen(Eds.), Routledge handbook of applied sport psychology: A comprehensive guide for students andprofessionals (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.--- If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this episode, I reunite with Australian psychologist Dr. Petah Gibbs to delve deeper into the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT) — a powerful projective tool developed to foster meaningful dialogue with athletes beyond performance. Together, we explore the importance of the person-first perspective, the value of context and narrative, and how AAT can help practitioners work more effectively by uncovering the lived experiences athletes project onto storytelling.We reflect on the origins of the technique, the meaning of apperception, and the influence of past psychological research. Whether you're a sport psychologist, therapist, or simply curious about innovative methods in mental health and sport, this episode invites you to rethink how we understand, connect, and work with those who play sport for a living — as people first.Importantly, Petah emphasized the flexible nature of the test's administration. There are no rigid rules: it can be used in one-on-one settings, in written form, over Zoom, or asynchronously by having clients take home the images and respond at their own pace. Some practitioners prefer using only a subset of the 10 standard images, depending on client needs. Observational data such as body language, spontaneous utterances, or emotional reactions during story generation can also add interpretative depth. While some may argue for strict procedural controls, Petah maintains a client-centered stance: “You do you. Use it how you want to use it and get the best information you can possibly get.” This philosophy aligns with his belief that the complexity of working with human beings doesn't always lend itself to rigid administration protocols.Ultimately, the AAT is proposed not as a standalone diagnostic instrument, but as a complement to other tools—questionnaires, interviews, and behavioral observations—offering nuanced, context-rich insights into athletes' emotional worlds. It invites practitioners to listen, to reflect, and to integrate, supporting a more holistic understanding of the person behind the performance.Also, If you are interested in Dr. Gibbs original research study, you can find it here: Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. B. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projective assessment method: The Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, 9(1), 33–48. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676x.2016.1180637AbstractWithin the field of applied sport psychology, there is an increasing appreciation for diversity of training models, research methodologies, and therapeutic approaches. For example, psychodynamic formulations and interpretations have begun to appear more frequently in the sport psychology literature. In keeping with emerging psychodynamic viewpoints, we believe the time is right to introduce a qualitative sport-specific projective instrument: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). The AAT represents a new technique based on psychodynamic theory and established projective test construction principles. It was designed primarily as a clinical tool for practitioners and not as an instrument for quantitative research into personality. It does, however, have potential research applications, especially in clinical sport case study research and narrative analysis investigations. The AAT produces an idiographic understanding of athletes' characteristics, anxieties, and motivations (both conscious and unconscious). We briefly review the literature on the development of projective techniques, explain the rationale underlying the development of the AAT, and present three sequential studies to explain the AAT image selection procedures that led to the final product.---Discover all Dr. Petah M. Gibbs research here:Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B. (2023). Projective techniques: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M.(Eds.) Applied Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to HelpingClients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Marchant, D. B., & Gibbs, P. M. (2023). Psychological Assessment: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M. (Eds.) AppliedSport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to Helping Clients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B., (2017). The Athlete Apperception Technique: Manual andMaterials for Sport and Clinical Psychologists. London, Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. A. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projectiveassessment method: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport,Exercise and Health, 1-16. doi: 10.1080/2159676X.2016.1180637Davidson, K., McLaren, S., Jenkins, Corby, D., M., Gibbs, P. M, & Malloy, M. (2016). Internalizedhomonegativity, sense of belonging, and depressive symptoms among Australian gay men. Journalof Homosexuality. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1190215McLaren, S., Gibbs, P. M., & Watts, E. (2013). The inter-relationships between age, sense of belonging, anddepressive symptoms among Australian gay men and lesbians. Journal of Homosexuality. 60(1), 1-15. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2013.735933McLaren, S., Turner, J., Gomez, R., McLachlan, A. J., & Gibbs, P.M. (2013). Housing type and depressivesymptoms among older adults: a test of sense of belonging as a mediating and moderating variable.Age and Mental Health, 17(8), 1023-1029. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2013.805402Gibbs, P. M. (2010). Psychological assessment: Projective techniques. In S. J. Hanrahan & M. B. Andersen(Eds.), Routledge handbook of applied sport psychology: A comprehensive guide for students andprofessionals (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.--- If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Welcome back to Martial Attitude Voice, the podcast where we explore the intersections of discipline, psychology, and performance across a variety of domains. I'm Mathias Alberton, and today we're diving deep into the origins, development, and implications of a fascinating tool in applied sport psychology—the Athlete Apperception Technique, or AAT.This is a special episode, not just because of the subject matter, but because of our guest: Dr. Petah Gibbs.Dr. Gibbs is a sport psychologist based in Australia, with an impressive career that spans collaborations with top-tier athletes and organisations in both hemispheres—from the AFL in Australia to the NBA in the United States. But what brings us together today is not just his applied experience, but his deep academic and psychoanalytic insight. Dr. Gibbs is the author and developer of the Athlete Apperception Technique—a projective test designed specifically for athletes, rooted in psychodynamic theory and inspired by tools like the TAT and the Rorschach.We first heard about the AAT through his PhD supervisor, Professor Mark B. Andersen, who called it a bold and much-needed addition to the field. But as Petah reminds us in this conversation—behind every supervisor's suggestion, there's an author willing to take the leap.In this episode, we talk about how chance meetings, lucky mentorship, and a lifelong love for psychodynamic theory led Petah to take on a PhD that would require him to bridge the gap between century-old ideas and modern elite sport. We explore how projective techniques—so often dismissed for being "too old" or "not empirical enough"—can actually give us access to the deeper layers of athletes' inner lives. Petah speaks candidly about referencing 19th-century sources in his thesis, drawing comparisons between Freud and Newton, and reminding us that while our environments evolve rapidly, human nature doesn't change all that fast.This is a rich, thoughtful conversation about theory, practice, and the humanity of sport—and I can't wait for you to hear it.Let's jump in.Also, If you are interested in Dr. Gibbs original research study, you can find it here: Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. B. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projective assessment method: The Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, 9(1), 33–48. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676x.2016.1180637AbstractWithin the field of applied sport psychology, there is an increasing appreciation for diversity of training models, research methodologies, and therapeutic approaches. For example, psychodynamic formulations and interpretations have begun to appear more frequently in the sport psychology literature. In keeping with emerging psychodynamic viewpoints, we believe the time is right to introduce a qualitative sport-specific projective instrument: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). The AAT represents a new technique based on psychodynamic theory and established projective test construction principles. It was designed primarily as a clinical tool for practitioners and not as an instrument for quantitative research into personality. It does, however, have potential research applications, especially in clinical sport case study research and narrative analysis investigations. The AAT produces an idiographic understanding of athletes' characteristics, anxieties, and motivations (both conscious and unconscious). We briefly review the literature on the development of projective techniques, explain the rationale underlying the development of the AAT, and present three sequential studies to explain the AAT image selection procedures that led to the final product.---Discover all Dr. Petah M. Gibbs research here:Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B. (2023). Projective techniques: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M.(Eds.) Applied Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to HelpingClients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Marchant, D. B., & Gibbs, P. M. (2023). Psychological Assessment: In Tod, D., & Eubank, M. (Eds.) AppliedSport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Current Approaches to Helping Clients (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Andersen, M. A., & Marchant, D. B., (2017). The Athlete Apperception Technique: Manual andMaterials for Sport and Clinical Psychologists. London, Routledge.Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. A. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projectiveassessment method: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport,Exercise and Health, 1-16. doi: 10.1080/2159676X.2016.1180637Davidson, K., McLaren, S., Jenkins, Corby, D., M., Gibbs, P. M, & Malloy, M. (2016). Internalizedhomonegativity, sense of belonging, and depressive symptoms among Australian gay men. Journalof Homosexuality. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2016.1190215McLaren, S., Gibbs, P. M., & Watts, E. (2013). The inter-relationships between age, sense of belonging, anddepressive symptoms among Australian gay men and lesbians. Journal of Homosexuality. 60(1), 1-15. doi: 10.1080/00918369.2013.735933McLaren, S., Turner, J., Gomez, R., McLachlan, A. J., & Gibbs, P.M. (2013). Housing type and depressivesymptoms among older adults: a test of sense of belonging as a mediating and moderating variable.Age and Mental Health, 17(8), 1023-1029. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2013.805402Gibbs, P. M. (2010). Psychological assessment: Projective techniques. In S. J. Hanrahan & M. B. Andersen(Eds.), Routledge handbook of applied sport psychology: A comprehensive guide for students andprofessionals (pp. 101-110). London, England: Routledge.--- If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Sport psychology meets psychoanalysis in this deep dive into the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT) — a powerful, yet underused projective tool developed from the legacy of the Rorschach and TAT. With the birth of the AAT, we open up the conversation on what truly lies beneath performance. Discover what happens when athletes narrate ambiguous images, and how this "Blade Runner" test for the soul might reveal more than expected. In this episode, I had the opportunity to speak with Professor Mark B. Andersen about the AAT and to explore its implication for sport psychology and how it could help athletes beyond their performance issues.Mark B. Andersen, PhD, is an adjunct professor at Halmstad University in Sweden. He lives in Australia and collaborates intercontinentally with his Swedish colleagues in the areas of research, training, and supervision in applied sport and exercise psychology. Andersen is a registered psychologist in Australia and is licensed to practice psychology in the United States. He is the former editor of the Professional Practice section of the international journal The Sport Psychologist. He has published 9 books, and more than 190 refereed journal articles and book chapters. He has made more than 100 national and international conference presentations, including 17 invited keynote addresses on four continents.As a Supervisor, he contributed to Dr. Petah Gibbs' PhD research study: Gibbs, P. M., Marchant, D. B., & Andersen, M. B. (2016). Development of a clinical sport projective assessment method: The Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health, 9(1), 33–48. https://doi.org/10.1080/2159676x.2016.1180637AbstractWithin the field of applied sport psychology, there is an increasing appreciation for diversity of training models, research methodologies, and therapeutic approaches. For example, psychodynamic formulations and interpretations have begun to appear more frequently in the sport psychology literature. In keeping with emerging psychodynamic viewpoints, we believe the time is right to introduce a qualitative sport-specific projective instrument: the Athlete Apperception Technique (AAT). The AAT represents a new technique based on psychodynamic theory and established projective test construction principles. It was designed primarily as a clinical tool for practitioners and not as an instrument for quantitative research into personality. It does, however, have potential research applications, especially in clinical sport case study research and narrative analysis investigations. The AAT produces an idiographic understanding of athletes' characteristics, anxieties, and motivations (both conscious and unconscious). We briefly review the literature on the development of projective techniques, explain the rationale underlying the development of the AAT, and present three sequential studies to explain the AAT image selection procedures that led to the final product.----- If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Follow Darren on LINKEDIN. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Today, we dive deep into the world of sport psychology with a truly inspiring guest—Marta Tutić. Marta is a sport psychologist and a Master Gestalt psychotherapist from Belgrade, Serbia, bringing a unique blend of psychology and therapy to both athletes and non-athletes alike. She believes that success isn't just about results—it's about enjoying the process.In this episode, we explore how Gestalt therapy helps athletes stay present, navigate performance pressures, and redefine success beyond medals and achievements. We also tackle the challenges of transitioning out of sport, the mental barriers athletes face, and the true meaning of greatness.Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that might just change the way you view performance, success, and yourself. Let's dive in!Follow Marta on INSTAGRAM and LINKEDIN. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this episode, we reflect on lessons learned during the research process and the concept of reflexivity—how my personal experiences influenced the study. I'll share practical insights for researchers and discuss the broader implications of this work. How can we foster inclusion, adapt tools like the Touch Avoidance Questionnaire, and inspire action to create more accessible, empowering spaces?If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this episode, we explore how the newly proposed Touch Avoidance Questionnaire (TAQ) can be adapted to empower visually impaired individuals in sport psychology settings. While the original TAQ focused on clinical contexts, the new version would instead emphasize touch as a tool for confidence and participation in physical activities. Join me as we discuss how this research can shape individualized training, improve team dynamics, and monitor progress—creating inclusive, tailored interventions that help visually impaired individuals thrive. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Sight loss affects individuals in vastly different ways, depending on when it happens and the support they receive. In this episode, I explore the concept of the Locus of Control and its role in coping with sight loss. We also discuss tailored interventions—like Martial Attitude Training and psychological frameworks such as REBT—that empower individuals to adapt and thrive. How can we create interventions that meet people where they are in their sight-loss journey? Let's find out. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this episode, we explore a fascinating concept that emerged in the research: the “mental images” and memories of sight that linger after vision loss. How do these cognitive maps help visually impaired individuals relate to their surroundings? We also discuss the progression of technology—like voice-controlled AI—and its paradoxical effect on touch reliance. Is touch being replaced? And what does this mean for our connection to the physical world? Let's reflect on these existential questions together. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this episode, we dig deeper into the relationship between confidence, touch, and physical activity, with a focus on the timeframe of sight loss. How does confidence differ for someone who has lost their sight later in life compared to someone born blind? I discuss insights from my research and explore how physical activity can help individuals regain control over their bodies and confidence, no matter their journey. Join me as we unravel these layers and reflect on the importance of support during the transition period. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Physical activity is more than just exercise—it's a pathway to confidence, connection, and well-being. In this episode, we discuss how movement, touch, and guided sport activities through participants' experiences, but we'll also understand better how complex it might be for them to access them. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

How does culture shape the way touch is experienced? In this episode, we explore the stories of two participants, living in very different countries divided by two oceans but sharing similar discrimination and exclusion as they grew up. We will learn from them how taxing it can be to adjust to an inaccessible world, and we will reflect on how bullying shaped their relationship with physical contact. By understanding cultural and societal influences on touch, we can create more respectful, inclusive spaces for visually impaired individuals. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Isolation, frustration, depression or a sense of bereavement are common experiences for visually impaired individuals, but physical activity and touch exchange can provide a way out. In this episode, we discuss how supportive, safe environments—like smaller gyms —help participants reconnect with their bodies, build confidence, and foster social connections. Discover how sport becomes a lifeline to brighter, more confident living. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Confidence doesn't happen overnight—it grows incrementally, layer by layer, through repeated experiences. In this episode, we unpack how touch exchange fosters confidence by helping visually impaired individuals build skills, set realistic goals, and overcome challenges. Touch becomes a bridge to freedom, creating a powerful feedback loop of trust and self-belief. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

The second theme highlights the social dimensions of touch. In the right context, touch fosters trust, connection, and understanding. But when touch is uninvited or inappropriate, it can undermine autonomy. Join me as we explore the delicate balance between helping and overstepping boundaries, and how respecting context and consent can make touch a powerful tool for connection. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Touch isn't just a physical act—it's a way of making sense of the world. For visually impaired individuals, touch verifies reality, builds independence, and fosters connection. In this episode, we explore how participants describe touch as existentially vital: a way to affirm that the world is real and within reach. We'll discuss practical examples and what this theme means when exploring the concept of “touch exchange”. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Curious about how this research came to life? In this episode, I simplify the process behind my study, from conducting semi-structured interviews to analyzing data using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. I'll also discuss the diversity of participants and the ethical considerations taken to ensure trust, comfort, and respect. Whether you're a student or researcher, this behind-the-scenes look will give you insights into how qualitative research is done. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

In this episode, we dive into the psychological theory underpinning my research: Self-Determination Theory. Developed by Deci and Ryan, it highlights three key needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—that help us thrive. For visually impaired individuals, touch becomes a tool for achieving these needs, helping them connect with others, develop independence, and build confidence. Join me as I share participants' reflections and how this theory comes alive in real experiences. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

I'm Mathias Alberton, your host and a sport psychology MSc researcher with a deep passion for exploring how we can break barriers and build confidence for visually impaired and blind individuals. In this series, we'll be unpacking my research on the existential nature of touch exchange—how touch becomes a bridge to confidence and participation in physical activities. Together, we'll uncover the themes, stories, and practical applications of this work. Whether you're a blind or visually impaired person navigating a world designed for the sighted, a researcher, a student, or simply someone curious about the human experience, this podcast is for you.If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Over the years, I've worked closely with visually impaired and blind individuals, developing programs that focus on confidence, balance, and the profound importance of touch in everyday interactions. In this episode, I'm joined by a remarkable guest, Es Es, who has been part of our journey since the very beginning. As a teacher with nearly two decades of experience, Es Es shares his unique perspective on navigating life with sight impairment. We explore the challenges of adapting to progressive vision loss, the emotional impact of these changes, and the evolving role of touch as a vital sense in his daily life. It's a conversation filled with insight, resilience, and thought-provoking reflections. Es Es, a remarkable individual who has shown tremendous dedication in our training sessions. He often finds it challenging to keep on explaining his visual impairment and how it affects his behaviour in certain contexts to others, which can make navigating social situations more demanding for him. Despite this, he approaches each session with incredible determination and openness, demonstrating his resilience and eagerness to grow. Our work together has already had a significant impact. Es Es has expressed his appreciation for the training we've done so far, highlighting how it has helped him build confidence and better communicate in a way that feels authentic to him. From there, we also consider how Martial Attitude Training can be developed and refined further to provide an even more compelling experience to present and future participants, enhancing motivation and implementing support throughout every session. Let's dive in.If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Claire Fahey is an extraordinary trailblazer in the world of real tennis and rackets. With over 40 Open singles titles, six Grand Slam completions, and a record seven Ladies World Championships, her impact on the sport is really unique. In 2017, she became the first player—male or female—to achieve the remarkable feat of winning all four singles Opens, all four Doubles Opens, and both the Ladies singles and doubles World Championships in a single calendar year. She is also known as the first woman to compete in three Men's Open main draws and to reach a semi-final. Currently, Claire has taken up the Head of Racquets and Games coach position and re-energized the club at The Oratory School in Berkshire, which is one of four schools in the United Kingdom with a real tennis court, and that hosts championships and international tournaments. In this episode of Martial Attitude Voice, world champion real tennis player Claire Fahey opens up about the relentless drive, pressures, and confidence that have defined her career. Claire shares how her journey has been a balance of short-term goals, intense training, and respect for the unpredictability of real tennis. From reigning titles to her preparation for the Ladies Real Tennis World Championships in 2025, she reveals her relationship with pressure and how embracing it has become both a responsibility and honour. Dive into a compelling conversation about resilience, mental strength, and the intricate dynamics of a life dedicated to high-performance sport, where every challenge on the court reflects lessons in life beyond it.If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Today's episode guest is John Colin Lumley, a British real tennis powerhouse born on August 7, 1992. Currently ranked number two in the world, John was practically raised on the court in a family of champions, with his father a two-time Australian Open winner and his mother a six-time Ladies Real Tennis World Champion. Now the assistant professional at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia, John faced off against Camden Riviere in a thrilling 2023 World Championship bid at the Westwood Country Club in Virginia. Join us as we explore his journey, his intense World Championship challenge, and his relentless pursuit of greatness in 2024. Speaking with John, we explore the mental tools and techniques essential for high-stakes performance. For instance, he shares how music keeps him in the right mindset during matches and how self-talk—both positive and instructional—helps maintain high energy on the court. He discusses his reliance on a "goldfish mentality" to quickly let go of mistakes, enabling him to stay focused and optimistic after setbacks. Further, we also had the possibility to unpack the concept of success, victory, and mastery which are often misunderstood as a single idea, rather than unique pursuits. Get insights into the nuanced psychological aspects that drive an athlete to grow beyond traditional markers of success, aiming for long-lasting greatness.If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Joining me is Andrew Jones, a dedicated participant in our Martial Attitude Training sessions. In this episode, we explore the physical and mental shifts that come with learning Kung Fu Wing Chun techniques in a non-visual format—where movement is felt, internalized, and then adapted to everyday life. Andrew shares insights on how this training has enhanced his confidence, spatial awareness, and even deepened his bond with his son, who often joins him in the sessions. From the challenges of translating movement into words to creating a truly inclusive environment, we'll talk about how adapting martial arts for the visually impaired can foster greater self-assurance and a resilient mindset.If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available  HERE.     Sincerely, Mathias Alberton Founder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C. BPS trainee Sport Psychologist  MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Camden Riviere, born in 1987, is a left-handed American Real Tennis player and current world champion. He first claimed the world title in 2016 and has since regained it twice, most recently in 2022. Camden, who started playing at age 5, has been ranked world number one since 2013, winning multiple international titles. In 2017, the South Carolina General Assembly honoured Camden for his 2016 World Championship victory, celebrating his outstanding achievements in Real Tennis. He is also known for his legendary 2017 World Doubles Championship, where he and his partner made a stunning comeback, winning five consecutive sets to clinch the title.In this episode of Martial Attitude Voice, Camden reveals to us the long journey that he undertook to become World Champion, but most importantly to be World Champion for all these years, and what it entailed for his physical and psychological preparation. The task is now to become the Champion of himself, and to work on reinforcing the strongest of motivations he could possibly have ever imagined to need. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Slowing everything down in Real Tennis is essential because of the small margin of error. And when you start making mistakes, the most important thing to do is to go against your instinct and wind down the game, not to allow to spiral down endlessly into even more mistakes. Jon Dawes is now Head Professional at Hatfield House Real Tennis Club, and as a younger player won the Under 18 British Open. In this episode of Martial Attitude Voice dedicated once more to the world of Real Tennis, he shares his career's insights behind the reality of training in a sport where everyone can be a worthy opponent, because of the handicap system and the peculiarities of each Real Tennis court which might provide the upper hand against you. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

I'm joined again by Juliette and Dominic, two individuals journeying through the tactile world of Martial Attitude's adaptive Kung Fu Wing Chun training. Together, we're breaking down traditional martial arts movements into something powerful yet personal, designed to enhance spatial confidence—especially for visually impaired and blind individuals.We start with a fundamental question—what does touch mean? For Juliette and Dominic, touch goes beyond mere contact; it's a language, a way to express gratitude, awareness, and cooperation. Throughout this training, touch has become the key to navigating the space around them, transforming physical interactions into a means of communication.As we dive deeper, you'll hear us discuss how this approach to training differs from conventional martial arts, where repetition and precision often overshadow interaction. Instead, our goal here is to sustain a connection—a continuous ‘conversation' of movement and response that builds trust and understanding. Join us as we explore how we're creating a learning system that empowers each participant not just to learn a movement but to connect through it, growing together as a community. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch, via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

The nuances of touch can be both a supportive and occasionally intrusive element in the lives of blind or visually impaired people, especially in public spaces. My MSc in Applied Sport Psychology research premise is that for blind individuals, uninvited or unexpected touch can be particularly distressing since it lacks the visual cues sighted people use to anticipate and contextualize physical interactions. This led me to propose training to build confidence in "touch exchange"—a practice aimed at enhancing comfort in crowded environments where incidental touch is frequent.Juliette responds by explaining his personal experiences, noting that she has become comfortable with receiving help from others, even accepting some degree of unsolicited physical guidance. She also points out that his proactive and outgoing nature likely aids his adaptability in these situations, which contrasts with the experience of others who might feel a loss of independence or discomfort when needing assistance.The whole conversation with Juliette and Dominic captured the personalized nature of confidence and support in visually impaired individuals' interactions, where personal history, personality, and relationship dynamics influence how individuals navigate social and physical spaces. Eventually, their lived experiences suggest that the need for touch, or its effects, can be as individual as one's unique journey with visual impairment. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch, via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Members of The Queen's Club have the unique opportunity to play Real Tennis on some of the country's most historic courts. The club, considered the heart of Real Tennis in the UK, features two courts housed in the oldest part of the Club, dating back to 1886.Head of Real Tennis at Queen's is Ben Ronaldson, former n. 10 in the sport, who comes from the finest family sport tradition with two champions as parents, and  who has now extensively coached beginners coming into the game as well as long-time pro across other prestigious clubs in United Kingdom for many years.In the exquisite Viewing Gallery located behind the baseline in rows one and two of the Centre Court North Stand, we have spoken at length of what the sport requires out of its players both physically and psychologically.Champions seem to be crafted out of a special mould of discipline and talent, and you might be surprise that for as different as they might be as individual athletes enriched with their own personalities, they seem to be all primed not to see defeat, but only opportunities.  If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch, via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Played in less than 50 places in the entire World, Real Tennis is very different from Lawn Tennis not just because it is the original "true" thing born many centuries ago and played by figures like Henry VIII. Real Tennis is played in an asymmetrical court, which many unusual features could make someone think about squash to a certain extent, and with hand made balls which are pretty unpredictable in behaviour and not replicable on large scale. Josh Smith is Head Professional at the exclusive Holyport Real Tennis Club, in Berkshire,  built in 1889 by renowned court builder Joseph Bickley. His expertise as a coach and international ranking player is at the core of this interview dwelling in the multifaceted characteristics of the sport, and it helps identify the sport psychology aspects which might more affect the players.In his opinion, to excel at Real Tennis there is a need for specific "sport intelligence" and for a "short-memory" attitude to never look back at the past points, but only focus in the present moment of the game. Easier said than done, in this interview, we try to understand more about what tennis is Real Tennis and what its players are made of. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch, via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Coach Brandon is an incredible USA professional developing important and meaningful prompts to the visually impaired and blind community to fully access physical training at its best. Brandon Piane  is a personal trainer and inclusive fitness trainer with over a decade of experience training individuals with various disabilities how to exercise effectively and safely.  With a BS degree in Exercise Science and years spent working with clients, he created Tactile Training to make exercise more accessible for the blind and visually impaired community. Tactile Training uses verbal cues to describe how movements should feel when performed correctly instead of how they should look.  This proprioceptive or "touch-first" approach to fitness has helped individuals learn proper exercise techniques and find new self-confidence in movement.  If it feels right; you're doing it right!Find Coach Brandon on FACEBOOK or LINKEDIN and discover his INCREDIBLE NEWSLETTER: If you are interested in physical well-being for visually impaired and blind people, I highly recommend subscribing for free. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch, via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Martial Attitude met the Dream Team composed by Filip & Gabi and asked them what is dance sport and what challenges it poses to dancers.With more than 12 years of experience in Sport Dance and participation in international competitions, how does the Dream Team use their mental coaching approach to support their athletes?Also, how they position themselves with the idea of "experience being overrated as opposed to perspective being underrated" as I stated a few months back?Meet an follow Filip & Gabi on their Instagram page and get involved with their activities clicking HERE.  If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and blindness or if you would like to join in the Martial Attitude Training workshops now running in London every Sunday, please do keep in touch, via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available HERE. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonFounder CEO at Martial Attitude C.I.C.BPS trainee Sport Psychologist MSc in Applied Sport Psychology at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

Martial Attitude Training and my MSc in Applied Sport Psychology research are happening! And it introduced and complemented by a new series of short podcasts exploring how touch, exercise, and confidence are perceived in the visually impaired and blind community. The first guest is Takashi, a professional viola player based in London. He explains to us how there is a good and bad way to touch and be touched.Would you like to participate too? Please keep reading, then.I am very grateful and happy to share that our funding application through National Lottery was successful! We will soon deliver a series of workshops to visually impaired/blind people, possibly in February-March 2024. As MSc in Applied Sport Psychology student at  St. Mary's University, Twickenham, my research will be a great opportunity to combine valuable research contributing to the scarce literature on the topic, and the application on the field of a significant and impactful work empowering the visual impaired community. It would be then possible to measure pre/post intervention for perceived psychological/physical well-being and confidence on top of important demographic aspects such as age and level of visual impairment, across participants. Also, interviews will be taken, and videos recorded.Imagine if you were visually impaired or blind. How is sight loss affecting your movements, posture, and your attitude towards a healthy lifestyle and other people? Is it possible to develop a training method enhanced by a solid sport psychological approach specifically tailored for visually impaired and blind people?My experience as a Sport & Remedial Massage Therapist led me to observe that visually impaired and blind people, usually suffering of overall poor posture, need specific support when addressing any kind of exercise and manual therapy as they lack full proprioception and are often live a sedentary life, aggravated by different degrees of anxiety, and depression.Combining some of the close-up techniques and tactile teaching methods derived from Kung Fu Wing Chun, that I train and teach, I have found that visually impaired and blind people can also increase their confidence and self-efficacy in controlling their immediate surroundings when in a new environment or in contact with strangers.A notable client registered as blind that I have been working with for over two years is Peter Sands, Chairman of the London Sports Club for the Blind, provided the following reference: “The training has personally helped me to feel confident in crowded situations, be aware of my posture alignments and overall has improved my balance.” Pre-pandemic, Peter and I have also recorded a presentation of the work done together, which you can watch clicking HEREBuilding onto these observations, I created Martial Attitude C.I.C., I qualified as Gym Instructor, and I undertook biomechanics for all three years during my undergraduate at Roehampton University to gain the psychological/biomechanical foundations and to learn about the different methodological approaches that could be integrated in Martial Attitude training for visually impaired and blind people. If you are visually impaired or blind, or if you know someone who is, and would like to take part to the series of Martial Attitude Voice podcast interviews exploring touch, confidence and visual impairment or if you would like to join in the upcoming Martial Attitude Training workshop early next year, please do keep in touch, via Instagram or according to your communication preferences, all available in the Instagram link in bio. Sincerely,Mathias AlbertonCreator and Director at Martial Attitude C.I.C.MSc in Applied Sport Psychology Student at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.

His nickname comes from his former trainer's pistol. More recently, he has been called "miracle man" by the international sport press following a grave accident occurred during his last fight on May 27th, 2023. Ludumo Lamati is a South African professional boxer aged 31, now retiring.  He always fought without fear, because "fear is a liar", as he clearly states in this exceptional Martial Attitude podcast episode upon fear and anxiety in the world of professional boxing. He held the IBO super bantamweight title from June 2021 to May 2022. As an amateur, he competed at the 2011 World Championships and lost just 10 fights over nearly 200. As a professional boxer, he holds a record of 23 fight, with 21 wins (11 KOs), 1 draw, and 1 loss. As mentioned above, the one loss was during his last fight in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the WBC silver featherweight title against Nick Ball. In a dramatic chain of events, Lamati's corner dropped the towel at 2' 15" of the 12th round. Moments after, Ludumo collapsed because of a brain bleed and was hospitalized and was taken care of in induced coma for several days before, miraculously, waking up and recovering.  Ludumo Lamati knows. Listen to his precious teaching. This interview was first recorded on Friday the 6th of October, 2023. Follow Ludumo on INSTAGRAM  TWITTER  Recast photo credit: Belfast Telegraph

He knows no fear, and he is coming to take it all.The man is Chris "2slick" Mbwakongo (Kongo), English professional boxer in the welterweight division with an important record of 14 wins (2 KOs) and 2 losses.Chris has a plan. He does not fail the plan. With the plan, there is no fear. Fear is not even contemplated, because it is not anywhere near the plan. The championship is in the making and he has signed to Boxxer and Sky Sports. You better keep looking for him.Would you guess what he thinks the difference between anxiety and fear being? Listen to him very carefully, then. This interview was first recorded on Friday the 6th of October, 2023. Follow Alfie on INSTAGRAM  TWITTER and FACEBOOK and LINKEDIN Recast photo credit: Sky Sports

Come si diventa un radiocronista sportivo? Come si usa la propria voce nel farlo? Ma soprattutto, quando si va a descrivere al pubblico le fasi concitate di uno sport cosi' veloce e complesso quale e' la boxe, come si ottiene il migliore risultato? Infine, ma non per ultimo, perche' tutta questa passione per la boxe e come si percepisce e di cosa ha bisogno un grande campione nel pugilato professionistico? Ne parliamo con Manolo Chirico, torinese e fin da giovane appassionato di sport, tanto da trasformare questa passione nel lavoro sognato da molti, ovverosia quello di telecronista sportivo. Ora direttore creativo per Mola Italia, servizio streaming on-demand di contenuti sportivi. Seguite la voce di Manolo in questo affascinante podcast sul mondo intorno a chi pratica la boxe. Seguite Manolo su INSTAGRAM , TWITTER e LINKEDINScoprite ed ascoltate tutte le sue piu' recenti RADIOCRONACHE  Questa intervista è stata registrata lunedi' 17 Ottobre 2023.

Alfie "Classy" Clegg is a British professional boxer, undefeated flyweight with a record of 7 wins (2 KOs) and 1 draw over 8 fights. He is currently training for his next bout, scheduled for the 25th November 2023.   Alfie is 24 years old, but with already more than 12 years of experience under his belt, and he has been extremely busy lately in fostering an important message of support within the youth community building around him. In his lovely, brand new gym he is training for his future titles whilst coping with extreme rigour and drive across the past difficulties being subject to bullyism and his autism for which is a compelling ambassador.   He knows what fear, panic attacks and anxiety are. And he teaches how to defeat them.   A legacy in the making and a message to listen to. This interview was first recorded on Tuesday the 3rd of October, 2023. Follow Alfie on INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK Discover Alfie BOXING TRAINING

An incredible story of passion, thrive for mental and physical well-being and of important contribution and give-back to the community. Guest to Martial Attitude Voice #martialattitudevoice is Kate McLaren, professional boxer, NSW & Australasian women's welterweight.  Originally from Harlow in United Kingdom, Kate has transitioned from a 9-5 office work life to the competitive environment of professional boxing in 2021 after only 12 months in the sport, under the guidance of 4 x World Champion and Boxing Hall of Famer Jeff Fenech. Kate quickly built a record of 6 fights, with 4 wins and 2 draws, and she is a champion also off the ring, supporting young females through Movement, Mindset & Motivation and advocating for women in sports & closing the pay gap for gender equality. Notably, she also is the executive director and founder of “It's Her” a non profit foundation dedicated to the fitness and empowerment of young women and at risk youth. Most definitely, Kate has shared with us some precious insights about what is fear and anxiety to her and how she overcame both in the quest for her own world title.   This interview was first recorded on Sunday the 1st of October, 2023. Follow Kate on INSTAGRAM - LINKEDIN  - X (TWITTER)Discover Kate's WEBSITE Look for all Kate's team:Coach:Jeff Fenech Major Sponsor:JD Sports  Recovery Sponsors: City Cave BroadwayBody WRLPhysio Strength & Conditioning:Richmond Saliba Nutritionist:  Jennifer May   Management:GS Sports Management

David "Dangerous Darkie" Rajuili is a 34 year old professional boxer, former WBF super featherweight and All Africa lightweight champion.After more than 20 years dedicated passionately to boxing, which led him from South Africa to continental Europe, David is now preparing for an important bout against the Swedish lightweight Anthony Yigit on October the 7th, 2023. Across his career, David has fought 25 bouts and has a record of 13 wins (3 KO), 11 losses (2 KO), and 1 draw.David loves to fight and he is afraid  only of the higher power above, to which he conveys his prayer of safety for himself and his opponent.In such a long run in professional boxing, has his view on fear changed over the years? How does he approach the idea of retirement? Does fear hold him back or does it serve him in a meaningful and different way?Follow David on INSTAGRAMWatch David's  YOUTUBE SHOWThis interview was first recorded on Saturday the 16th of September, 2023.

Ellis Zorro is WBO European Champion and Boxxer Series Champion 2022. Undefeated, he is a professional boxer in the cruiser weight division with an impressive record of 16 wins (7 for KO). He is promoted by Hall of Fame boxing promoter Frank Warren, with more than 40 years promoting the biggest stars and fight nights.Ellis is currently training for his next bout scheduled for October 6th, 2023.Ellis Zorro navigated his career throughout the higher ranks of his category not only by winning against his opponents, but learning from each of them precious clues about how to overcome different issues. Will a punch hurt? Will a venue or a particular crowd stop me from delivering at the best of my ability? Will fighting in front of TV cameras make me too anxious? Now, in retrospective, each fight was a lesson. A big fighter with a powerful figure, Ellis also displays an Olympic calmness when pondering the power he holds and the ways he controls it. Listen to what he thinks about fear in professional boxing.Follow Ellis on INSTAGRAMExplore Frank Warren INSTAGRAMThis interview was first recorded on Saturday the 19th of August, 2023.

Joké Amechi is a super bantamweight professional boxer with a record of 3 wins (1 for KO) over three fights, training for his next bout scheduled for September 23rd, 2023. Joké  is based in South-East London and train at the Double Jab Boxing Club and he also is an advocate of "Jab Don't Stab", an initiative addressing the growing problem of knife crime among young people in the UK. The London knife crime yearly rate has increased by nearly 30% since ten years ago, with nearly 13.000 stabbings last year and the highest effect on homicide rate. Joké declared that "Boxing can be seen as a violent sport, but in no way, shape or form did it make me an angrier person. If anything, it made me more calm and that, through discipline, I don't need to react with anger all the time." Starting from here, a dive in his perspective on fear and anxiety in professional boxing. Are you up for it? Follow Joké on INSTAGRAM This interview was first recorded on Sunday the 13th of August, 2023.

It may be that fear is unavoidable, but it's definitely possible to manage it better with appropriate training. In this Martial Attitude Voice podcast episode, we hear this view from Chris “the Bull" Baugh: Former undefeated professional light middleweight boxer, who retired in 2016 with a 4-0 record (3 by KO). Since retiring due to a combination of licensing issues and medical complications, Chris has taken his experience from the ring into his performance coaching practice. Chris' coaching focus is to help clients gain clarity on what goals would be meaningful and impactful for them, and to support them in executing them. He has helped not only professional athletes to improve performance, but also those living  busy professional lives looking to improve their mental and physical health. Furthermore, Chris is a regular speaker for corporates and charities exploring subjects around purpose, performance, the link between mental and physical wellbeing, male vulnerability and identity. He also volunteers his time at Carney's Community, a youth charity in South London supporting vulnerable young people through boxing coaching, targeted youth work and employment training. How do you think this retired fighter will describe his experience of fear? Does he see any difference between fear and anxiety? And now he's retired from professional boxing does he feel more or less fear about the things he has to lose? What kind of coping strategies does Chris put in place to understand, combat or even harness the power of fear and anxiety? This podcast is for you. Follow Chris on INSTAGRAM This interview was first recorded on  Friday 11th of August, 2023.

She is powerful in smiling and she has a powerful active upbringing in sports and academic. Sandra Suomela, is an amateur boxer with a record of 3 wins over 3 fights (previously, other 3 wins over 3 fights as a white collar) and she won the Haringey Box Cup in 2023. Originally from Finland, 29 year old, with a MSc in Applied Positive Psychology & Coaching Psychology  at the University of East London, Sandra works in London as a Holistic Life & Performance Coach, creating a non-judgemental space for people to reflect on something (yet) undiscovered, in order to move towards what they value in their life. Whether it is letting go of past-derived obstacles, changing your career, discovering your worth, increasing confidence, achieving goals, forming a healthy self-image, or creating a better relationship with yourself, Sandra's way of coaching starting from a positive psychology approach adapts to her client's needs.   What is then her understanding of fear for her as both a Coaching Psychologist and as an amateur boxer? Does she live it differently than anxiety? And how does Sandra cope with both? Listen up to her powerful podcast episode.Discover Sandra's Holistic Life & Performance Coaching practiceFollow Sandra on INSTAGRAM This interview was first recorded on Thursday 10th of August, 2023.

What does a boxer think? How do they react to their opponents, to the crowd shouting at them and to the instructions of their coaches in the midst of the battle?To better discover the wider boxing environment, Martial Attitude Voice is reaching out to whom conveys some of the magic of boxing to the public. Photographer and videographer, Afshin is the creator of BoxingTunes, a channel that inspires people to change their lives for the better and strive to achieve their full potential. Afshin believes boxing is a metaphor for life, full of inspirational characters that defy the odds and overcome all of the challenges thrown their way, as particularly explored through the Amateur Focus video series. Discover Afshin's BoxingTunes YouTube ChannelFollow Afshin on INSTAGRAM This interview was first recorded on Wednesday 9th of August, 2023.

What is fear like for professional boxers? Is fear different for them than anxiety? What kind of coping strategies do boxers put in place to understand, contrast or even use fear and anxiety? New Zealand National Champion in the feather weight division, with a record of 4 wins over 4 bouts, Amy Andrew is the incredible pro boxer guest of this new Martial Attitude Voice episode. A female boxer originally from New Zealand who lives and train in London, UK, now 37 year old and mum of a little baby daughter.  Already English National Champion, Amy has recently become New Zealand National Champion, an experience uber important for her career, pride and sense of achievement, which is also setting in motion the following steps for her to represent New Zealand at the next Olympics Games.At the age of 30, after building up a career as a journalist for more than ten years, Amy decided to challenge herself and pursue accomplishment through professional boxing. She overcame the struggle to leave the certain for the uncertain, moneywise, and the idea that it could have been far too late in life already.  Regardless the odds and inspired by Clint Eastwood's movie Million Dollar Baby, Amy faced a unique and scary life change and the success she has being capable of building for herself is paving the way for future important competitions. Follow Amy on INSTAGRAM This interview was first recorded on Saturday 15th of July, 2023.