Competition Jitters: 5 Tips Before Entering the Archery Arena

However, it can become a handicap that will prevent you from surpassing yourself during the game and reaching your goals. So, how do you remove competition stage fright? Here is some important information and tips to know so you don't let yourself get destabilized.

Before entering the arena, act as if you were alone

No matter how many people are around you or how many opponents there are, remember that there's only you. We also advise you to disconnect from everything happening around you: noises, applause, etc. so you can focus on what you're going to do. This mindset will help you concentrate on the techniques and ways to aim at the target.

To help you disconnect, imagine that there's only you, your bow and your arrow.

Start visualizing everything that will happen

The challenge of competition lies in mental preparation. It's a method directly derived from mental preparation, as it calls upon different branches of relaxation. So, visualize everything from your entry onto the field until the end of the match. Visualize the match, visualize your routines, your technical gestures to better anticipate and execute them. Think about setting up your bow throughout the match. Prepare yourself for the pressure you might feel during the match. Think about what your reaction will be.

You could also imagine the place by asking yourself: what will it be like to shoot there? And to motivate yourself, imagine how you'll celebrate if you win. This will give you a little boost to control your mind. These good ways of visualizing what's going to happen will be important if you want to achieve your goals and avoid hesitation, doubts, anxiety, etc.

Keep a simple but effective routine

Keep your usual routine and the simple things that are in your mind. You could even imagine that the competition you're going to do will be part of your training. This will help you avoid stress, stage fright and focus on shooting, on why you're going to shoot this bow.

It is also advised not to change anything about the way you're going to shoot, continue doing what you've done until now. In fact, that's exactly how it should be.

Stay calm and breathe

Breathing is obvious for everyone, but breathing properly is less so. Since archery is a sport of precision and concentration, complete breathing is required before entering the archery arena. Calm down and don't worry about anything. Inhale and exhale gently, as this is the only way that will bring enough oxygen to your lungs to help eliminate anxiety, stress, and stage fright. Archery is also a great opportunity to bring body and mind into harmony.

For the trick, we advise you to close your eyes and inhale slowly through your nose, mouth closed, letting your belly expand. Hold for three to 4 seconds before exhaling through your mouth while pulling in your stomach. It is recommended to repeat this exercise 3 to 4 times for it to be more effective.

Consider yourself the best

Often, we tend to retain the negative while knowing it can ruin us. So, the best would be to avoid underestimating yourself by comparing yourself to other athletes. Have positive thoughts and tell yourself that you are the best. Don't doubt your skills and have confidence in yourself. Being optimistic will boost your morale and motivation.

However, don't forget that the main purpose of competition is to enjoy yourself. So, make the most of this opportunity to live each moment.

As we have seen so far, competition stage fright before entering the archery arena is not inevitable. It can be channeled by preparing properly.