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Peripheral Vision

Peripheral Vision is the ability to maintain an awareness of what is happening outside the direct line of vision. The binocular field extends to about 200 degrees horizontally and 130 degrees vertically.

Peripheral vision is used to detect movement and shapes while central vision is used for visual clarity and to detect color.

Why is peripheral vision important in athletic performance?

Peripheral vision, because it is the body’s first way of sending messages of movement to the brain, is essential to improving anticipation and reaction speed.

Peripheral vision is also critical for self-preservation and protection against injury in contact sports.

What can athletes do to improve their peripheral vision?

It is not possible to expand your peripheral vision beyond 180 degrees. Fortunately, however, it is peripheral awareness rather than peripheral vision that is most useful to athletic performance.