Mental Game - Pregame calmness

Tapping on previous topic on "Mental Preparation for games", today we would like to share some useful techniques to help athletes to calm down prior to competing a game/match.

Techniques to calm down prior to a game:

1. Deep breathing – Taking several deep slow breaths for a period of time will slow down your respiration and heart rate and provide you with a sense of calmness.

2. Imagery – Visualizing yourself in a calm surrounding, like the beach, can be a soothing escape before a game.

3. Listening to music – Slow tempo music will have the effect of slowing down your heart rate and distract your mind from thinking about the game too early before its start.

4. Relaxation or massage – these techniques serve to relax your muscles and body before game time.

Tips for Pregame Calmness:

First, know what works best for you--do you need get pumped up or calm down before competition?

Choose a strategy that works for you. While meditation may benefit some, other athletes may not find that technique too relaxing.

Practice your relaxation technique. You need to become proficient at any technique for it to work in your favor.

Managing your fear is also key to helping your control your emotions before a game.

A relaxed mind and body optimally prepare you to play your best from the very first minute of a game!