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.