Ace the 2026 AQA GCSE PE Paper 2 – Get Active and Score Big!

Deep-breathing is an effective way to manage arousal because it helps regulate the body’s physiological responses to stress and anxiety. When individuals experience heightened arousal, such as during competition or high-pressure situations, their heart rate and respiration may increase, leading to feelings of panic or nervousness. Engaging in deep-breathing exercises allows for a controlled and deliberate method to calm the mind and body.

By focusing on slow, deep breaths, a person can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress. This technique not only lowers heart rate and blood pressure but also helps improve concentration and mental clarity, ultimately enhancing performance in physical activities or sports.

In contrast, other options like physical contact, negative self-talk, and increased external stimuli are less effective for managing arousal. Physical contact may not always provide calming effects and can lead to further excitement or arousal rather than control. Negative self-talk can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and hinder performance, while increased external stimuli can overwhelm an athlete, making it difficult to focus and maintain composure.