Mental Preparation

Atanas Atanasov Asked 12 years ago

Hi Alois,

Yesterday I had to play 5 matches in a row. They were important and I had to play well but I lost from the weakest opponent I could have in the first match. Then I couldn't concentrate on the next matches and I lost all of them except the last one. Now I am number 6 seeded in the team but I knew I could win all of the other matches.

My main problem was that I couldn't get my third ball attack in and the big pressure over me. What should I do if the same thing happens again? I know I mustn't feel nervous because of that but I can't.

Nasko

Jeff Plumb Answered 12 years ago

Hi Nasko,

This can happen to all of us. Once you start focusing on the results and the pressure builds you need a technique to get you back on the right track. This is usually involves calming yourself down and then having a routine for each point so you focus on playing good table tennis.

The first thing I would do is start working on a pre-point routine. Before each point take a few seconds to think about your basic tactic for the next point. If you are serving you can even picture the serve in your mind. Then perhaps bounce the ball on the table a few times and then play. Whatever your routine is, make sure you follow it each point. By doing this, your body will get use to playing good table tennis after the pre-point routine. When you get nervous this routine will help you focus on what's important, playing the next point!

We cover this in our master class called Pre-Point Routine.

You can also check out all the question in the Mental Preparation section.