Ignoring nerves
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Why? |
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Because you want to |
Maybe
you just don't want to be remembering 20 steps to perfect harmony.
After all, if you're messing around inside your head, you sure
aren't focussed on the shooting. Or maybe this isn't what archery
is all about, for you. There's a lot to be said for just getting
on with it. |
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Because you have to |
No anxiety
reduction method completely removes nerves in all circumstances.
There will always be times when you can still feel those butterflies,
maybe your mouth is a bit dry, and you just have to get out
there and shoot. |
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How?
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Outside competition |
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Practice shooting under
stress |
The best strategy is to get used
to anxiety in shooting. Use visualisation
techniques to put yourself under pressure in practice sessions.
Tighten the clock on yourself 'til you feel a little rushed.
Go looking for practice shoots and competitions where you can
put yourself under a little pressure. If you can find some friendly
needle matches at the club, do it. Every bit is essential experience. |
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In competition: |
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Notice the symptoms |
The first
step in adjusting to a distraction is recognising it. More about this
in the concentration pages, but here: let yourself notice and accept
your anxiety. That way, your brain doesn't keep reminding you...
This step is probably best sorted out behind the line. |
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Relax |
You should
have a short, simple routine for reducing physical tension - the relaxation
pages will help. A single outward breath, a relaxed fist, is often
enough. That can happen on the line, every shot. |
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Focus |
Deliberately
move your attention onto the task. More on the concentration
pages, but for now: |
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Use previsualisation
to 'programme' your shot. |
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Focus on a small number - two
or less - of particular features of your shot |
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if
you can, pick features that describe or control the whole action;
timing, rhythm, sequence, power. If not, pick one or two critical
points; pressure points, aiming or alignment marks. |
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Shoot |
... and execute the shot. |
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When it works |
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When you've
practised it |
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When you've
applied a well-rehearsed relaxation sequence |
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When you've
developed good concentration skills |
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When it doesn't |
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When you haven't
prepared for it... |
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