Pre-Game Routines
When people are asked about their pre-game rituals, most athletes have specific tasks they like to complete before competition. Cristiano Rinaldo, arguably the best soccer player, will not play a game unless he has gotten a fresh haircut right before. Mia Hamm always had to tie her right shoe over her left when she laced up her cleats. Triple world Ironman champion, Chrissie Wellington, wrote Rudyard Kipling’s inspirational poem “If” on her water bottles. Professional snowboarder, Gretchen Bleiler, filled her head with positive thoughts from her library of inspirational books. Personally, I do not feel ready for elite competition unless I have had a steaming hot morning shower.
Even though these little rituals have very little to do with getting at words physically ready for a game, the superstitions help the athletes feel mentally prepared. In other words, it helps them put on their “game face”. Thomas Newmark, MD, the president of the International Society of Sports Psychiatrist stated, “…Rituals, lucky charms, and superstitions give you little things you can control. It’s something you can do that is familiar and soothing that can help you control anxiety…and to that end, maybe perform better.”
What most people do not realize is that you should mentally prepare for trainings and practices the same way that you prepare for games. Why? It will help you form new winning habits and it will allow your game mindset to become more ingrained. If you have not figured out how to help you get into “game mode” (“beast mode” to use the term of art coined by NFL running back, Marshawn Lynch), try a few of the following suggestions:
• thinking and talking positively about your game and about your sport
• carrying yourself positively
• mantras
• imagery
• set expectations
• do not over practice
• understand who is in control of what
Still looking for motivation? Check out this Youtube Video made for the 2014 World Cup “The Game Before The Game”. http://youtu.be/v_i3Lcjli84
Excerpts from Espn.go.com/espnw/training/article/6857252/pregame-rituals-pros
