Mental Prep: Before, During & After your race | Head Games
You know how important it is to be physically ready for your race. But mental preparation is just as important and is something many riders overlook.
In riding, as with life in general, proper preparation prevents poor performance. Typically, in sports, preparation refers to physical preparation – skills training, strength and endurance – with a small amount of time being spent on mental preparation. Mental preparation typically gets the short end of the stick as it is often viewed as incidental and a less important skill to develop. The purpose of mental preparation is to create a mindset that lets you consistently perform to your abilities and talents in practice and competition. In this article, Dr. Andrew Lewis offers insights into the aspects of effective mental preparation before, during and after a race.
Pre-performance mental preparation can take place days and even weeks before the competition and can consist of concentration and focusing; relaxation and visualization exercises; scoping out and mentally preparing for the venue where the competition will be taking place — either physically or virtually — and even practicing maintaining your composure under pressure.
Before your race
Learn to focus on the here and the now and not solely on the outcome of the race. Analyze different situations that may arise in the race. Review and visualize your race strategy. See yourself successfully executing that race strategy. Listen to music or perform other rituals that prepare and help you transition into a competitive mindset. Check your bike and gear, making sure everything is prepared.
During your race
Keep your head in the game by following your strategy however, you will need to be able to adapt mentally as things change. Often, simply maintaining focus and concentration can mean the difference between being able to finish the race with a result or crashing out.
After your race
Post-race reflection should ideally become part of your training routine. Reflecting on your performance can mean that you enter the next race building on your past performance. Ask yourself what worked in your previous race and what you would have done differently. This reflection can include things like revisiting goal, letting go of mistakes made and clearing your mind to help you focus on the next race. //
Dr Andrew Lewis is a registered Educational Psychologist Contact: info@andrewlewis.co.za lewisandrew1964@gmail.com 082 874 6112 //