After clocking hours of practice and putting your body to the test, you’re ready to take on the competition. But don’t let your nerves get in the way of winning. Stay focused, ease tension, and solidify your match-day performance by getting your mind in the game with these simple strategies.
Use visualization
How you visualize yourself performing can ease your mind and up your confidence. Before a match, think about your best match ever. Use all five of your senses to replay the best parts of the match. Then think about your worst match. Use your five sense to replay the match with a more positive outcome.
Perform the gratitude ritual
Thinking about all of the things you’re thankful for can help you put things in perspective. Before a big match, think about three things that you’re most grateful for. It can be tennis-related or personal.
Control your breath
As the excitement of the match approaches, your breathing and nerves can get out of control. Ease tension, calm your breathing, and focus on the task at hand with this simple breathing exercise. Breathe in for 6 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and breath out for 10 seconds. Do this for 3 minutes.
