The following post is an excerpt from The Tennis Parent’s Bible. Thanks for visiting, Frank Giampaolo
Concentration
At the center of mental toughness lies concentration. When players fully concentrate, they can better anticipate proper execution of strokes and strategy. The ability to maintain a consistent state of concentration often separates the seemingly great athletes from the actual champions.
Concentration is a habit that can be learned and improved. Here are some keys to improving concentration:
- Practice in the manner in which you are expected to perform.
- Set task-specific goals and be accountable for them each training session.
- Train your mind to spot past, present, and future thoughts so you can perform “in the moment.”
- In matches, focus on the task rather than your personal form.
- Apply rituals to avoid self-doubt and a wandering mind.
- Train your eyes to spot tendencies.
- When appropriate, listen carefully to digest a coach’s information.
- Concentrate on work ethic and attitude.
Concentration has two unique requirements: Depth and Length. Hours before a match begins, a top competitor will commit his undivided attention to the upcoming match situation, organizing his tactical plans and the various functions of each component.
Contact: Frank Giampaolo
FGSA@earthlink.net
MaximizingTennisPotential.com
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