precompetetive anxiety

Pre competitive anxiety

Pre competitive anxiety is a state of arousal that is unpleasant or negative and occurs prior to competition.

Symptoms of Pre competitive anxiety
Muscle tension,
Butterflies,
Desire to urinate,
Cotton mouth
Self focused thoughts
Self defeating and negative thoughts

Sources of Pre competitive anxiety

1. It results form an imbalance between perceived capabilities and the demands of the sport environment.
2. Fear of failure
3. Feeling inadequacy (poor conditioning, UN prepared)
4. Loss of control
5. Guilt (concerns about hurting an opponent)

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Recommendations for athletes.

1. become more aware of your optimal level at arousal.

Think of the times when you felt ready going into a competition and it worked for you
2. Focus on things that are within your control.
Payer should think about the performance but not worrying about factors that are beyond our control.
3. Use performance cues to develop or retrain your arousal level.
Practicing mental routines and practicing them until they become automatic.