Need Help With MENTAL game

[BMWprestigem3]

I have been playing tennis for about 5-6 years. But when I play a match I get tense and my MENTAL game goes down. I don't get has much racquet speed has I should so my stroke are weaker. I get anger at my self, but I never really show that I am anger. I feel like I go down to players. When the match is for fun I feel free and I play better because I don't get tense and my MENTAL game is not in the way. So how do I get a better MENTAL game and not get tense when I am playing a real match in a tournament.

Thanks for your help.

 

[albino smurf]

IMO preparation is key. Hone your instincts and think less.

 

[Japanese Maple]

I have been playing tennis for about 5-6 years. But when I play a match I get tense and my MENTAL game goes down. I don't get has much racquet speed has I should so my stroke are weaker. I get anger at my self, but I never really show that I am anger. I feel like I go down to players. When the match is for fun I feel free and I play better because I don't get tense and my MENTAL game is not in the way. So how do I get a better MENTAL game and not get tense when I am playing a real match in a tournament.

Thanks for your help.

Good question, I feel your pain! Every player goes through this as they get involved in league and tournament matches. The best thing you can do is read Jim Loerh's book called the "The Mental Game". In that book you will read about the 16 second cure. A big key for you will be to monitor your breathing in between points and while you are hitting the ball. Also, your pre match preparation is critical for you to play your best, along with your technical skills.

 

[1308Bryan]

I always keep my spirits high....if I miss a shot especially an easy one I'll just pick up the ball and play on.No point in letting one point mess you up,in my view...and if im loosing heavily...I stop really caring and give it my best no matter what.

The only times i let my mental game interfere is when im playin someone I'm rivaled with...even if there not (in my opinion) up to my standard. Sorry to drift some-what off topic

 

[split-step]

http://www.theinnergame.com/html/Inner_Tennis_home.html

Check that book out. Really good.

 

[Bagumbawalla]

If you lack confidence in your strokes and yourself, you will tense up and play poorly.

1) Hone your strokes until you have absolute confidence in them and then just play the points. This is easier said than done. You will really need to drill and practice and condition and learn strategy...

2) Play for fun in a tournament, just as you do with your friends. Play the ball and concentrate on hitting it cleanly and moving well-- and forget all that other stuff.

3) Nobody just automatically goes out there and wins every point/game/tournament. So, yes you are going to lose plenty- don't wory about it.

Think of it as a learning experience, determine, from your losses, what you need to improve-- and work on that.

And, just to repeat-- have fun. Most likely you will never be a great/pro player. You will never be perfect, so give yourself a break and start enjoying the game.

 

[Jtillinghast]

go buy game, set, life a book by ed tseng. its hellped me massivly

 

[teppeiahn1]

Have confidence in yourself.