MuSt Theory in Action for Self-Regulation: A Practical Guide and Case Study

The case study of an elite pistol shooter presented here aims to provide practitioners with a detailed procedure to capture the nuances of the various experiences athletes encounter during their performances and to help them self-regulate under pressure. The procedure is grounded in Multi-States (MuSt) theory, which offers a holistic, dynamic framework to enhance athletic performance. MuSt theory integrates ­psychobiosocial states with core action components to address athletes’ needs under pressure. Through individualized profiling—encompassing performance level, hedonic valence, and action monitoring/control—athletes are guided to identify and regulate functional and dysfunctional states via emotion- and action-centered self-regulation.