OLYMPIC and Commonwealth diver Peter Waterfield has taken the plunge into a new line of work and is hosting a series of mental toughness training sessions for businesses.

For £150 plus VAT a session, the Southampton Olympic star will show businesses how mental toughness helped him take silver at the 2004 Olympics and silver and gold at the Commonwealth Games.

The events, which have been put together by international training company Adaptis, will take place all over the south east during the next three months.

Venues for the sessions include Pete's home swimming pool, The Quays, where he plans to give attendees a poolside demonstration of his diving skills.

Peter, 25, who is expected to represent Britain again at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, said: "Being positive and staying motivated is what drives me and originally got me to the Olympics in 2004 and on to the podium to collect the silver medal."

Adaptis managing director, Sara Burks said: "Peter has to exhibit a high degree of mental toughness when he dives off the high-board and hits the water at 35mph.

"It is critical for anyone who wants to succeed in a challenging job or, in Peter's case, in an Olympic sport, and is interested in optimising performance. That's why Peter is important to our training."

She defines mental toughness as the reason why one person struggles to cope with pressure while another thrives on it.

The training was developed in conjunction with sport psychologist Dr Peter Clough, from Hull University.

He said: "We have found that mental toughness can be used to predict performance in both sporting and occupational settings."

Adaptis is holding taster and full mental toughness sessions with Peter Waterfield in the south east throughout January, February and March. To find out more contact 0845 200 2246 or visit www.adaptis.co.uk.