Mental Block Workbook for Athletes: The Yips of Cheer Paperback – February 5, 2026

Athlete's Mental Health Workbook: Forging Fearless Athletes When Mental Blocks StrikeYou know you can do this. You've done it a hundred times before. So why won't your body listen?You're standing there, heart racing, palms sweating. Everyone's waiting. Your coach believes in you. You know the skill. But something inside you has hit the brakes, and no amount of "just go for it" makes it better.Here's what you need to know: You're not broken. You're not weak. You're not crazy.Your brain is doing exactly what it's supposed to do—protect you. The problem is, it can't tell the difference between real danger and the fear you feel right now. Mental blocks aren't a character flaw. They're a glitch in your internal safety system.And glitches can be fixed.The companion workbook to The Yips of Cheer (for coaches and parents), this hands-on guide gives you the tools to work through mental blocks and build unshakeable confidence.Based on Dr. Kennedy's decades of work with athletes from recreational programs to Olympic training centers, these exercises help you understand what's happening in your brain and body—and what to do about it.Inside, you'll work through:Self-assessments to identify your specific block type and what triggers itBody-based exercises that calm your nervous system when fear takes overStep-by-step strategies to rebuild trust in yourself and your skillsProgress tracking tools designed specifically for athletes facing mental barriersCommunication guides for talking with coaches and parents about what you're experiencingConfidence-building activities that create real, measurable progressJournaling prompts that help you understand your patterns and break themThis isn't about positive thinking or pushing through fear. This is about rewiring the patterns that keep you stuck—using science-backed strategies that actually work.Perfect for gymnasts, cheerleaders, divers, figure skaters, martial artists, and any athlete struggling with mental blocks, fear, or performance anxiety. The exercises are designed for ages 10-18 but work for competitors of any age.The workbook format gives you plenty of space to write, draw, and track your progress. Short sections mean you can work through exercises in just 5-15 minutes. And because it's based on the same framework as The Bravesmith, you and your coach will be speaking the same language.Your mental block has a pattern. This workbook helps you break it.Whether you're fighting through the twisties, balking at a skill you used to love, or dealing with comeback anxiety after an injury, this workbook meets you where you are—with empathy, respect, and proven tools that work.You've got this. Let's get you unstuck. Read more