Vision, just like speed and strength, is a vital element in sports. What is sport vision, you may ask, well according to the Medical Dictionary, it is the use of eye tests and safety measures, such as optometry, and visual training to  protect and/or enhance athletic performance (Farlex and Partners, 2009).

Most visual skills affect how well you play your sport. Just as exercise and practice can increase your strength and speed, your visual fitness and precision can be enhanced too. To reach peak athletic performance it is crucial to consider sports vision training. It may be noted that no athlete can reach their full potential if they are not visually fit. As an athlete, if you feel you are just not reaching your goals, perhaps you should consider contacting your local optometrist to undergo a Sports Vision Assessment. The following are some of the aspects of visual ability that will be assessed and potentially be improved:

Dynamic Visual Acuity

This is the ability to see moving objects clearly. It is vital for any player to be able to see the ball as well another players or opponents whilst in fast motion. This crucial skill can be trained and enhanced.

Peripheral Vision

This skill involves the ability of a player to see a team-mate, ball or opponent ‘out of the corner of his eye’. Peripheral vision assists other visual skills such as hand-eye coordination.

Eye-Hand Co-ordination

Eye-hand-body co-ordination is the player’s ability to use their eyes to effectively direct the movements of the body. Essentially it is how a player’s body responds to information collected through vision.

Visual Concentration

This is a player’s ability to keep track of all moving elements, such as a ball, a target, other players etc. additionally, it is the player’s ability to switch focus between these various elements quickly and efficiently.

Visual Reaction Time

This refers to how a player’s eye reacts to movement and the speed in which the player can process this information and interpret the visual stimuli providing the correct response during a match. A swift reaction ultimately influences the end results of a game and can either mean victory or loss.

Visual Memory
A player needs the skill to process and remember how everyone and everything is positioned on the field. As these elements are continuously changing visual memory is a vital skill.

Depth Perception

This is the ability of a player to swiftly and accurately assess the distance and speed of objects in relation to each other. This is especially important in contact sports.

Whether you are a professional athlete trying to reach your peak performance or an amateur golfer wanting to cut a few strokes off your golf score, why not pay your optometrist with expertise in sports vision a visit? They will be able to comprehensively assess your unique visual system. They will be able to prescribe the necessary eyeglasses or contact lenses to suite your needs. Or alternatively they will be able to design a vision therapy program to boost your visual skills for maximum results!

NOTE: Natalie Horwitz is the WSMC's Sport Vision Optometrist and seen as one of the best sport vision practitioners in South Africa. You can book a consultation with Natalie to assist with your sport vision needs. Contact info@wsmcbullring.com for an appointment.