The increased stress of competitions can cause athletes to react both physically and mentally in a manner which can negatively affect their performance abilities. They may become tense, their heart rates race, they break into a cold sweat, they worry about the outcome of the competition, they find it hard to concentrate on the task in hand. This has led coaches to take an increasing interest in the field of sport psychology and in particular in the area of stress control. That interest has focused on techniques which athletes can use in the competitive situation to maintain control and optimise their performance.
Psychology is another weapon in the athlete's armory in gaining the winning edge .
Deeply relax all your muscles, beginning at your feet and progressing to your face. Breathe through your nose and become aware of your breathing. For example, breathe in . . . Continue for 20 minutes. You may open your eyes to check the time, but do not use an alarm.