How to Prepare Yourself Mentally Before a Martial Arts Competition

"Mind over matter, grasshopper". Sounds like a line from a martial arts flick, right? As an international gold medalist in Karate, I know all too well how true this is. While there are several factors that can contribute to your success in a martial arts tournament, mental confidence can be just as important as physical strength, endurance, and speed. Here are some tips to help prepare you mentally before your next martial arts competition.

Prepare Mentally by Training Thoroughly

The training and preparation weeks and months before a competition will most likely have the greatest impact on your mental confidence going into a competition. Have you ever taken an exam in school that you know you hadn't studied for? That feeling of anxiety that comes with being ill prepared can have a great impact on your performance. The uncertainty of whether you are fully prepared can leave your mind unsettled making it hard to concentrate. In fast-paced sports such as martial arts, sharp focus can be the difference between winners and losers in a competition.

The Early Bird Gets the Calm Mind

Showing up late to a martial arts competition can quickly shake your mental ease. Not only will you be worried that you might miss the registration deadline or event, but you will have no time to prepare mentally before it is your turn to compete. Try to arrive at least an hour before the start of the competition. This will give you enough time to get registered, change into your uniform, and relax. Arriving early will also give you the opportunity to take in and feel comfortable with your surroundings.

Prepare Yourself Mentally with Your Favorite Tunes

Music can be a great way to tune out distractions and keep your mind clear. Find a secluded are of the building to sit and listen to your favorite tunes before you head into the room where the tournament is being held. What music you decide to listen to may depend on your personality. Soft music may help to calm your nerves, while loud, fast-paced music can help energize your mind.

Tip - While training, listen to the same music that you plan to take to the competition. Your mind will soon associate your music as a part of your training environment. Even though you will be in a different venue, listening to the same music on the day of the competition will help your mind feel for "familiar" with your surroundings.

Strengthen Your Mind by Visualizing your Routine

Practicing your routine over and over in your head can greatly enhance your mental confidence. Since your brain ultimately tells your body what to do, practicing your moves in your head can be a great way to train mentally. The great thing is that you can do this anywhere - riding in the car on the way to the competition, siting in the bleachers before the tournament, or waiting on the sidelines of the ring for your turn to compete. Remember to visualize yourself taking the gold for an extra boost to your confidence.

Boost Your Mental Confidence with a Last Minute Pep Talk

Getting a last minute pep talk before your turn to compete is invaluable. Pull aside someone that you trust, like your martial arts instructor or senior member of your class, just before you head into the ring. Ask them to share some last minute advice that you might need going into the event. The pep talk can do even more than reminding you to keep your hands up during a match. A good "talk" can give you the confidence to believe that you can win.