As we head to the business end of the season, I want to address a big problem for not only age group athletes, but also pros. Putting unbearable pressure on oneself to perform before the race even starts.
Many who join our squad are more than a little surprised that as we enter our race preparation for the big days, how laid back and not revved up they are. Our results on getting it right on the big day are formidable! Thus, athletes looking for the big motivational speeches are duly disappointed!
We keep it calm, controlled and clinical!
As mentioned in previous blogs, we shun the word ‘win’. It has no meaning in itself. It can’t positively effect the outcome where one person or a team can beat another. That outcome only manifests itself if the preparation has been carried out in the best possible way, and on race day the focus is on the process.
We at Trisutto have had huge success with many athletes who before joining us, did not get their job done to the best of their abilities on the day they wanted.
As a coach, just as an athlete, I do have my process. That is about diffusing expectations and honing the athletes thoughts on having a clear head, to be able to then execute a planned strategy.
Here is a taste of what I try to achieve:
I emphasize that thinking of winning is a detriment to performance. We must have the self discipline to concentrate in the ‘now’ and to be able to execute certain skills and actions.
The strategy or actions have been laid out, discussed, and agreed well before race week. So it is rehearsed and completely understood as second nature.
Have check lists. This is so important, to take any last minute error that can provide extra pressure.
Check list for travel
Check list for race gear
Check list for strategy
Check list of how to think on the day
Why lists? How many times have I seen athletes been destabilized because they left something at home! That creates anxiety. How many times has a piece of race kit been left at the race hotel! That creates anxiety.
Check lists for strategy – when the nerves come (and they do), having something to remind the athlete of their procedure that is physical makes an enormous difference.
Check lists or some written word about how you should view competition is very important.
Quite a bit was made about what I gave Chrissie to settle her down at races – a copy of the poem ‘IF‘ by Rudyard Kipling hit the spot. Nicola Spirig has a different type of list, but it all has the ability to do one thing. The similar job as the other lists. The most important thing you can do as an athlete or coach, is to plan to diffuse anxiety! This is easier said than done. But if you follow the blueprint above, you will be amazed how it can clear your mind to have a positive outcome to your big races.
I wish the best mechanical luck to all Trisutto followers, athletes and coaches. For those who aren’t, we are about the best person on the day winning – it doesn’t have to be us! That is the honour of sport.
It still lives at Trisutto.