How to help reduce nerves before a big race

Dive Into My Mental Preparation

A swimming competition is the perfect opportunity for serious swimmers to test their abilities.

Experience the thrill and challenge of trying to be the strongest and fastest competitor. Push the limits physically. Control the stage mentally.

How have I Prepared Mentally Before a Big Race?

Racing is not just about the physical aspect. Preparing mentally is an important step in achieving the best possible result. Nerves, anxiety and fear are all likely to have a negative effect on your performance.

I am preparing myself for an upcoming competition. Approaching the race with the correct mental attitude is vital to my success. I aim to be standing on the starting block with a clear and focused mind.

Studies have shown that developing a consistent pre-race routine will deliver more successful results.

What Methods do I Use to Overcome Nerves?

- I consistently use several methods in order to get into the racing frame of mind. These methods combine to provide my race with a solid foundation.

- Focus on yourself. There is no point concerning yourself with those around you: You cannot decrease the size of lane three’s huge arms or knock the confidence of the bullish lane five. You should focus solely on what you can influence – yourself.

- Visualize yourself as a confident person. Imagine yourself walking to the pool, standing on the starting block, diving into the pool and swimming the race. How can you do all these things while radiating confidence? Be that person.

- Channel your mental energy. Think about previous successes that you have had. Take pride and positive feelings from your successes. Channel the energy into creating future successes.

- Maintain a routine for every competition. Keep the same pattern of thoughts. Perform the same warm-up.

- Stay calm and controlled. You will want to be ready to compete but relaxed and free of inhibitions at the same time. You can control your mood with the use of music. Find a track that works for you and stick with it.

- Breathe deeply and slowly. Nerves will cause your breathing to become shallow. Try to take deep and slow breaths in order to experience a calming effect.

- Enjoy it. Take pleasure in what you are about to do and feel the benefits. Happiness is a wonderful cure for nerves.

Ready for Action

Having followed the above techniques, I feel mentally ready and prepared to race. I no longer experience the pangs of anxiety; I am mentally ready to do battle.