The way you think and feel before a wrestling match can lead to a positive outcome. Olympic gold medalist and champion swimmer Michael Phelps famously listened to music before smashing world records. Basketball superstar LeBron James listens to music to loosen up and focus his frame of mind before a game. Other athletes may choose methods such as meditation, prayer, self-talk or some form of distraction, like reading or playing cards, to help psych themselves up and prepare for victory.
Step 1
Listen to music. Use a music player and create a playlist of your favorite songs that put you in a positive and pumped-up mood. The music can be anything from rap, to jazz, to R&B. Dance around, slap your chest, run laps around the gymnasium or just sit and listen to the lyrics.
Step 2
Repeat positive phrases. Self-confident statements like "I'm going to win" will help ease pressure beforehand and increase performance during the match.
Step 3
Use your imagination vividly. Play the match in your mind and imagine which moves you will use to overcome your opponent. Anticipate how your opponent will react. It may give you the upper hand during the match.
Step 4
Relax. If you find yourself pacing around the gymnasium nervously, then find a quiet corner and sit. Practice slow, deep abdominal breathing techniques to help ease tension. Taking time to relax may also help conserve energy for the match.
Tips and Warnings
- Use the preparation methods 15 to 20 minutes before the match.
- Spending hours getting pumped can leave you too drained mentally to focus on the match.
Things You'll Need
- Music player
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