Keeping your composure

Stan Johnson Asked 8 years ago

In my experience in playing table tennis, I've noticed that a few players, including myself sometimes, start to lose their composure; getting frustrated because of losing, which causes them to start losing more consistently.

Do you have any way to help keep your composure, despite losing or getting frustrated by physical exercises or the such?

Alois Rosario Answered 8 years ago

Hi Stan,

You are completely right that becoming frustrated is detrimental to your game.  However, how to deal with that is not that simple.

First it is about recognising your feeling early enough to be able to do something about it.  Take a look at our Sports Psychology section, in particular the lesson on how to Recognise Your Feelings.  This will give you a good basis to start from.

Utilising some simple techniques like deep breathing and a pre-point routine can really help you to stay calm during a match.