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TIP OF THE WEEK
Staying Focused At Tournaments
By Carl Danner
Tournaments last a long time, and we've all had the disappointing experience of playing later (often more important) matches poorly due to just having been there all day. What are some tips to cope?First, don't let the excitement of the event distract you from some physical basics. You need to eat, drink, and rest, even when other interesting things are going on (like great matches to watch). Based on your playing schedule, set a time for lunch and stick to it. During play and after, drink fluids even when you don't yet feel thirsty; always take a water bottle to the table. Bring some snack food that's easy on the stomach (e.g. bananas), or even a couple of favorite candy bars for energy. And perhaps most of all, sit down and get off your feet for a substantial part of the time. Standing around is more tiring than you think.
Second, recognize that staying fresh and warmed-up all day is difficult. Again based on your playing schedule, identify periods when you won't play for several hours; these provide helpful down time, but also require you to warm up again -- almost as when you walked in that morning. Feel free to take a shower, run an errand, or at least change your shirt during such a break, provided that you start the warm-up process once more at least a half hour before your next scheduled match.
Finally, it took me years to understand that effective tournament play is actually a very selfish activity. For that day, it really is all about you and your needs -- at least if you want to play well. A nicer way to put this is that a professional attitude admits no distractions from full preparation for the task at hand. Family, friends, and job need to take second priority, including table tennis related distractions. Now, admittedly, this approach can sound a bit harsh, and many folks don't want to ignore their families or find socializing a big part of their day. That attitude is fine (even commendable), but your results will also show the effects and you should adjust your expectations accordingly. Having a calm pre-tournament discussion with the potential distractors can also help you reach an understanding with them as to what's reasonable.
While I won't guarantee tournament victories, by following these tips you will reach more finals and have a better chance once you get there.