Before Stepping Onto the Court Today...



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Before Stepping Onto the Court Today...
Before Stepping Onto the Court Today... © © Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Before you step onto the tennis court, consider these valuable strategies that will help you conquer the game with the right mindset and determination. 1. GAME PLAN, PLAYING IDENTITY Accept the struggle as an integral part of the enjoyment in this sport.

Don't rush to avoid it; instead, learn to rally when necessary, constructing your points with precision. Seize opportunities when they arise, and when your opponent shortens the distance, move in, control the court, or even approach the net.

Aim to keep your opponent on their weaker side, and remember that always knowing what to do is a key to success in this sport! 2. ATTITUDE, FOCUS Tennis is a sport played one point at a time. Keep your mind anchored in the present moment and remain focused on the now.

Stay engaged in the match, fighting point by point. Avoid excuses or alibis, as they may lead you to believe them and hinder your fight. Remember, it's not over until it's truly over. In this sport, every darn point counts. So, order your body to execute your commands, don't let it wander off on its own.

Your body has a natural tendency to resist you, and you must overpower it with your willpower. 3. EMOTIONAL MANAGEMENT When you feel discouraged, tired, tempted to give up, fearful, or tense during crucial points, talk to yourself.

Speak to your "body," encourage it, urge it forward, support it. Be kind rather than rigid with yourself. Exercise patience and savor the experience of tennis instead of being its victim. Consider the wonderful opportunity you have to do what you're doing, but also relish the pain, sacrifice, and effort.

Without these virtues, you'd be playing a video game, not tennis! 4. MOTIVATION, ATTITUDE Transform into a true warrior, like Rafa. This doesn't mean blasting every ball at full power, but stepping onto the court with the mindset of taking the match, rather than just trying not to lose it.

Exhibit a warrior's attitude towards the match and your opponent. Put on your headphones and listen to your favorite song before you start playing to pump yourself up and maintain your resolve. Play point by point, game by game, set by set, and don't give up.

In conclusion, before stepping onto the tennis court, equip yourself with these strategies that can make all the difference. Embrace the challenges, stay focused on the present, manage your emotions, and channel the inner warrior within you.

Tennis is not just a sport; it's a mental and physical test of your determination and ability to rise above challenges. By adopting these principles, you'll be better equipped to conquer the game and excel on the court.