ATHLETES must be physically fit in order to be at their best, but in order to achieve that, they must also have a strong mindset.
This week, Jerry Diaz, a certified National Academy of Sports Medicine personal trainer, discusses what it means to prepare mentally before a competition.
This includes the ability to manage their emotional state and to focus on the necessary, he said.
“One must know how to handle stressful events that can build anxiety, and adapt to the competition environment,” he added.
The ability to maintain focus is crucial, Diaz said. Coaches must also prepare the athletes for the heightened and sometimes unreasonable expectations of the community, family and friends, he added.
Moreover, athletes must learn how to manage their emotions and how to cope with their coaches’ expectations.
For example, the best player in a baseball, football or basketball team should mentally prepare him/herself to endure long stretches of gametime while a backup teammate must be supportive while waiting to be called by the coach — he or she must be prepared to enter the game anytime.
Diaz said the essential pillars of mental preparation include breathing techniques, proper hydration, and getting enough rest.
Another way to be mentally prepared is to set goals, Diaz said.
“The best approach is to keep them simple and easy to follow. This will allow for growth and identify areas where one can improve while expecting the unexpected,” he added.
For professional fitness inquiries, contact Jerry Diaz through Instagram at @BBJ_Athletics or Facebook.
Members of Team Papua New Guinea gather for a pre-race huddle during the Va’a event of the 2022 Pacific Mini Games on June 20, 2022 at Kilili Beach.
