Describe the relationship between arousal level and performance level in the inverted-U theory.

The Inverted-U Theory suggests that there is a relationship between arousal and performance. At low levels of arousal, performance is poor because the athlete is not sufficiently 'psyched up'. As arousal increases, performance improves. However, there is a point of optimal arousal where performance is at its peak. If the athlete becomes over-aroused (too anxious or excited), their performance suffers due to factors like loss of concentration and tense muscles. The optimal level of arousal can vary depending on the sport and the skill (e.g., a golfer putting needs lower arousal than a weightlifter).