So you’ve made the Finals…. Congratulations!! But now what? How do you prepare your mind and your body to perform well under pressure? Here are some simple things you can do in the coming weeks to make sure you are ready for the upcoming competition.
- Improve hydration
- Rodeo events may be short in duration so the water requirements are small. However, when an athlete is dehydrated it can affect their mental sharpness and physical performance.
- Ways to increase fluid intake:
- Carry a water bottle and drink throughout the day
- Aim to drink water at meals
- Eat fluid rich fruits and vegetables
- Avoid alcohol as it dehydrates you
- Focus on sleep
- Inadequate sleep can increase stress hormones, affect mood, decrease decision making ability, and decrease immune function
- Regularly getting less than 6 hours of sleep per night has been shown to cause deficits in performance and health
- Having a regular and consistent sleep schedule leading into competition can prevent a sleep deficit.
- Ways to prepare yourself for a great sleep:
- Take a hot shower
- Deep breathing techniques
- Read/listen to a book
- Sleep in a cool, dark room
- Things to avoid before you sleep:
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Nicotine
- Bright lights
- Electronics
- Strenuous Exercise
- Let your body recover
- It’s inevitable that you have been dealing with soreness or injury throughout the season, so now it’s time to let your body recover in preparation for the Finals
- Have injuries assessed by a professional so you know what you’re dealing with (Find a caregiver near you at www.prorodeosportmed.com)
- Continue with any rehab exercises you’ve been prescribed
- Give your body what it needs- rest, proper nutrition, hydration
- Give your brain a break
- You’ve been on the road all season long, away from your home and your family. Take this time to reconnect and do the things you love with the people that lift you up and make you happy.
Taking the time after the end of the season to let your body & mind recover will set you up for success at the Finals!
