3 Sports Psychology Techniques Every Tennis Player Should Know

Do you know an athlete’s mental strength can make or break the game? Most table tennis players make the same mistake of keeping the mental health at last on their priority list and struggle more than required to achieve the desired result. A player must keep their mind calm, without losing the focus from the game, to turn the odds of winning in the favor.

Sports psychology techniques not only help players overcome their problems and improve their performance but also help them play at the highest level without losing their minds under pressure. Today, we are sharing some sports psychology techniques that are extensively used by table tennis players around the world.

Set short-term goals

For a beginner, playing table tennis like professional players could be intimidating. Rather than setting a big goal - perhaps to play Ma Long or Timo Boll - set small goals and achieve them one after the other. Creating a timeline to achieve short-term goals will eventually achieve your long-term goal and reach the proficiency level you desire.

Daily routines

Creating a routine before every practice session can prepare your mind and body for a match or tournament. It could be a particular set of warm-ups or rituals that you practice daily before getting into the game. You can also listen to motivational songs or visualize a good performance. The practice often helps players as it triggers their brain that the real challenge is about to begin.

Self-talk

Pre-match positive self-talk is extremely beneficial for a serious athlete. You cannot confidently play unless you motivate yourself to believe that you are a good table tennis player. One of the best ways to practice self-talk is to prepare some phrases or words and tell yourself that you are a good player.

These were only a few of the sports psychology techniques that you can implement to achieve your goals. If you need mental training, look for sports psychology books for young athletes.