The Body Achieves What the Mind Believes: Winning the Mental Match in Padel
Playing padel is as much a mental game as it is physical. Even the most decisive player is not immune to mental block and when it happens at a crucial point. Oh boy, you are in trouble. Today’s article will focus on helping you play under pressure to enjoy every moment of the game.
Remember that pressure creates diamonds, so you have to be able to withstand this, and you’ll be on top of your game for sure!
It’s different for everybody. There are people born with the confidence that could topple legions of players, and there are those that need work on their mental game. But that doesn’t necessarily make you a weak player. These emotions mean that you are receptive to what’s happening around you, and that’s good.
Just these few changes, and you’ll be unstoppable. Make no mistake, do not be too calm or nervous. Find the right balance, controlling your emotions so that the game’s tension doesn’t prevent you from developing your game.
First off, as counterintuitive as it sounds, you should not be focused on the match score. Awareness and hypervigilance are different. You wouldn’t be able to make the most out of every hit if you keep on worrying about the score. That’s just gonna wear you down.
Focus on the present moment. Consistently deliver and be consistent, and the rest will follow. That’s not to say you should go all out every time. Manage your pace and don’t take too much risk that you’re not confident with. Always stick to the basics, and with a solid foundation, you’ll be good to go!
The environment is the main stress factor during your matches in the competition. You must have control over what surrounds you and stay focused on your game. Because once distracted, it will be challenging for you to come back concentrated.
Pressure makes diamonds: how to turn the game’s pressure into your weapon of mass destruction
Being under stress doesn’t necessarily mean that it is something unhealthy. On the contrary, it must also be a good thing. In this state, you get excited, and you’re more in tune with your surroundings. Your body produces adrenaline, which will improve your performance on the field.
This is a normal process. Almost every player feels some game pressure regardless of the sport. If you manage to control it, you will be able to profit from it.
Especially in high-tension moments when the opponents close in, your palms get sweaty, and your heart beats fast. Don’t overthink it. You are not in danger. Keep your mind focused on what you will have to do, stay focused on what’s important, and that’s the next point.
Mental gymnastics in padel
First off, keep your mind focused on the present moment. Take a deep breath. Do not get caught up in the minor details. This is your match, and you are going to claim it. These people are here to watch you win.
Before a match (or between games):
- Try not to think about padel. You will have plenty of time to talk about it a little before the match, and, of course, during it.
- Try to relax before a match.
- Stay hydrated and read a book.
- Try not to exhaust your brain about last-minute strategies because that will only keep you on edge.
Pre-game mental conditioning is essential. Here are some quick tips to help you be in your best state before the game.
This is your game. Claim it! Use affirmations to hype yourself
I know it sounds cocky, but it really helps. To soothe your nerves before the game. Think of this game. Whatever the result will be, it is just the result of combining your skills and your mental condition needed to perform your skills. The only way to win a game is to play a winner’s game. The best confidence boost you can get is from yourself. So repeat it in your head: This is my game, and I’m going to win it!
Breathe in and breathe out
Master Ooguay from Kung Fu Panda was right: “Your mind is like this water, my friend. When it is agitated, it becomes difficult to see. But if you allow it to settle, the answer becomes clear. ” Take a deep breath, and you will be able to see things more clearly. This will help you relax and prevent your mind from going into panic mode.
Relax and unwind
It’s also essential to take care of your body after training sessions. Practice progressive relaxation to rid your muscles of tension that may build up. Always remember that the brain also gets fatigued as much as your arms and legs.
You need to sleep well and enjoy periods of relaxation so that your mental status recuperates.
Visualize your victory
Visualize yourself playing in a match and going through the motions. Imagine serving in a particular way, how your opponent will return the ball, and where you will place the next shot. This will help internalize specific tactics, and they will come out naturally during the actual match.
Here’s a YouTube video to help you visualize different situations in-game:
Create Your Winning Imagery
Some folks call it manifestation, but this one actually works. A winning mindset helps you bounce back from difficult situations in the game. Other than the fact that it gives you more confidence, it also subconsciously programs you into choosing winning moves at crucial parts of the game.
So it’s not enough to say that you’re a winner in your head. Imagine the moment that you win and claim it!
Create a Pre-Match Routine
A pre-match routine is vital. It’s different for everybody, but be sure to be in your best condition before entering the court. Do whatever it is you do to make yourself excited and ready to beat your enemies. It’s all up to you!
