Tennis is often considered a game of physical strength, but the mental aspect of the sport is equally important. According to W. Timothy Gallwey, a famous tennis player and coach, wins or losses happen in your mind before you win or lose in reality.
In tennis, winning or losing does not solely depend on the strength of your shots; it also depends on how well you can read your opponent and stay one step ahead of them in the game. This is where psychology and mental health plays an important role.
A game is not only won by good shots but also by strategizing how to use the said shots. And for an effective plan, you need a sharp mind and intense focus.
But how can you develop these strengths?
Most tennis courses in Dubai will teach you the right move, the correct posture, and how to strategize. Here are five tricks to help you build a strong mindscape and enter the court with all your weapons in the next game.
1. Develop a Pre-Match Routine
We know the question arising in your mind- “How can having a pre-match routine help me win the match.” Well, some primary reasons for a player’s slow start or underperformance are fear, anxiety, or the inability to focus on the competition. This is where a pre-match routine will help. It will help you elevate distractions of what-ifs, spectator noise, or past performances and help you focus your mind.
The human mind relaxes in a familiar zone, and having a routine will bring your mind into that comfort zone and keep you grounded in the present.
2. Focus on One Point at a Time
Every player enters the court with a single thought: to win the match. However, too much focus on the final outcome can ruin the game for you. It is essential to focus on the present and think about the next point rather than ponder over the past score. Converge your focus on what is about to happen instead of what happened a few minutes ago.
At CAP Sport Academy, we understand that this is easier said than done. But you can definitely get to this point by practicing mindfulness. This technique will improve the focus on your surroundings and give you clarity that can win matches.
3. Remove Self-Doubt
Self-doubt is probably one of the quickest ways to your downfall. As stated at the start of this blog, wins happen in your mindscape before reflecting on the court. Self-doubt is a parasite that destroys your confidence and fills your mind with negativity.
It is natural to feel discouraged if things are not going your way, but the real strength lies in overcoming negative emotions and staying positive. Give yourself a positive pep-talk and boost up for the next point. Instead of saying “How did I miss this shot” say “I will definitely get the next one”. You will notice for yourself the difference it brings to your game. By choosing the best adult tennis academy, you can remove self-doubts and improve your tennis game.
4. Learn from Your Mistakes
When we say don’t focus on the last shot, we don’t mean to say ignore it completely. Don’t focus on the negative feeling but on what mistakes you can avoid further in the game. Analyze the game to understand your opponent’s strategy and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
This approach will give you a better grasp of the game, and you can turn the tides on your opponent for a spectacular win. However, coaching classes like CAP Sport Academy – the best tennis academy in Dubai will hone your mental game and teach you how to decipher your opponent along with other things and stay a step ahead in the game.
5. Control Your Body Language
Your body language broadcasts the message you want to send to your opponent. Understand your emotions and learn to control them by projecting a confident and energetic persona.
During a game, if your opponent realizes you are low on energy or feeling dejected, they can manipulate the game in their favor and win. Control your body and emotions to signal to the world that you are ready for any challenge.
Wrapping Up
Good physical and mental strengths together make an excellent tennis player. Like the physical attributes of the game, mental attributes also need three P’s – patience, perseverance, and practice.
Good mindscapes can win you the bonus point you need to win. Choose the right tennis academy for adults and practice physical and mental exercises to improve your tennis game to win matches and hearts.
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