Hierarchical model of superior athletic performance and its neurohormonal foundations: bringing order to the domains of IZOF, momentum, and flow

Individual Zone of Optimal Functioning (IZOF), momentum, and flow are ubiquitous concepts, frequently, and often interchangeably, used by practitioners and researchers within and outside the domain of sports. A review of the related literature indicates that the line of demarcation among these constructs tends to be blurred. In this light, the current article aims to clarify the unique essence of IZOF, momentum, and flow; to establish how these states act and interact; and to identify their neurohormonal groundwork. Following these threads, a Hierarchical Model of Superior Performance (HMSP) was developed in which IZOF provides the essential arousal and emotional foundation for superior performance (i.e., foundation layer). Building on this optimal state, competitive accomplishments lead to momentum, generating a further psychophysiological boost accompanied by a feeling of dominance, aggressiveness, and determination (i.e., activation layer). This unique combination of emotion, arousal, and success forms the optimal conditions for a flow state to emerge–a sublime peak performance experience of total absorption, characterised by diminished self-reflection, hyper-focus, and enjoyment. Additionally, we examine the functional properties of the principal neurotransmitter systems in relation to IZOF, momentum, and flow, propose a conceptual representation of the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying superior athletic performance, and outline validation protocols for empirically testing the HMSP.