Why You Need Pre-Point And Post-Point Routines In Tennis
Tennis, often described as a "game of inches," is as much a mental sport as it is physical. From baseline rallies to intense volleys at the net, the game demands razor-sharp focus and unwavering mental resilience. Professional players consistently demonstrate their mental fortitude through structured pre-point and post-point routines that keep them at the top of their game. I'll explain why integrating these routines into your tennis game can dramatically improve your performance on the court.
Having routines can help you stay focused throughout the game.
The Psychology Behind Routines
Before we serve up the benefits of pre-point and post-point routines, it's essential to understand why they hold the key to enhanced performance. Athletes rely on routines to manage the anxiety and stress that often accompany high-stakes competitive situations. These actions are particularly powerful because they signal to the brain that it's time to focus, reducing the impact of distracting thoughts and enhancing a player's readiness to perform. By the same token, after each point, a post-point routine serves as a mental reset, allowing players to refocus and learn from their experiences without dwelling on past errors.
The Pre-Point Routine: Setting The Stage
When players prepare for a point, their routine should be systematic and purposeful. For example, before you serve you may adopt the routine of bouncing the ball a certain number of times. Or in the case of returning a serve, you may adjust your equipment such as the strings on your racket. The key is for the routine to be consistent and personalised to maximise its effectiveness.
Benefits of a Pre-Point Routine
Increased concentration and readiness
Improved shot accuracy and consistency
Psychological advantage over opponents
The Post-Point Routine: Learn And Refocus
Just as important as the pre-point routine, what a player does after a point can determine their success in the following point. A post-point routine involves analysing what happened, accepting the outcome, and swiftly moving on. This may be in the form of a quick shadow swing, a self-affirmation, or repeating a tactical strategy for the next point.
Benefits of a Post-Point Routine
Accelerated learning from successes and failures
Facilitates emotional control
Maintains performance consistency
Building Your Tennis Toolkit
Incorporating these routines into your practice does not happen overnight. It’s a progressive skill that takes time to perfect and can initially feel awkward or even disruptive to your natural flow. However, the discipline to persist and refine these routines will place you in a unique league of focused players who constantly edge out their competition.
How To Integrate Routines Into Your Game
Awareness: The first step in adopting these routines is recognising the importance of the mental game in tennis. Understanding that how you think directly affects how you play is pivotal.
Development: Start small with your pre-point routine—pick a simple sequence of actions and practice it until it feels natural. Then, adapt and adjust over time until it aligns with your game style and personal needs.
Consistency: Consistency is crucial in tennis, not just in your game but also in your approach to each point. Commit to your routine, even when you’re tired or under pressure.
Feedback: Seek the guidance of a coach to ensure your routine is serving its purpose. A second opinion can provide insights and adjustment options you might not have considered.
Not Just For The Pros
While it's the professionals who often spotlight the efficacy of these routines, they are by no means exclusive to the elite. Recreational players, aspiring talents, and enthusiasts of all levels can benefit from incorporating these practices into their game.
Conclusion
The adoption of pre-point and post-point routines can elevate your tennis game to new levels. By harnessing the power of these structured practices, not only do you become a more focused and consistent player, but you also forge a stronger mental foundation that can withstand the rigours of competition. Routines are your silent partners that not only keep you grounded but ready to claim victory. You can make these routines as innate as your backhand and as vital to your tennis persona as your favourite set of strings.