Nervousness before a big gymnastics meet is normal, whether it’s your first or thirtieth time. Many elite athletes use pre-performance jitters as motivation, which is a skill they develop over time. Being properly prepared for events can also help maintain the calm, accomplished demeanor necessary to excel as a gymnast. Here are a few steps you can take in the days leading up to your performance. 

3 Tasks to Help You Get Ready for a Meet

1. Eat Healthy, Wholesome Food

Food provides the fuel your body needs to pull off amazing feats. Eating nutritionally rich items, including lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is a must leading up to a competition to ensure optimum performance. Eating fried goodies, sweets, and drinking soda can cause stomach aches when combined with pre-performance anxiety. These foods can also make you feel weighed down and sluggish, which is detrimental to a gymnast. 

2. Practice as Much as Possible

Knowing your routine backward and forward is the best way to build confidence as a gymnast. This level of confidence can only be achieved through repeated practice, which should occur under the watchful eye of a skilled and knowledgeable coaching staff. In addition to rigorously developing your routine, make sure you have a daily stretching routine in place. Stretching keeps muscles and joints flexible, which is a must when it comes to gymnastics.  

3. Calm Your Nerves

Gymnastics requires great mental strength as well as physical strength. Some gymnasts use visualization to imagine themselves going through their routines over and over, which helps soothe their nerves. Others prefer meditation, which can entail selecting an impactful mantra (such as “I can do this”) and repeating it to themselves in a quiet, secluded place. Each gymnast is different, so you might need to try out a few relaxation techniques before you find the one that’s best for you.

A talented gymnastics coaching staff will help your child prepare for performances by building skills and boosting confidence. The Victors Gymnastics in Rochester, NY, has built-up young athletes since 1999. They accommodate kids as young as two years old, while also providing beginner, intermediate, and advanced lessons to older students. Schedule an introductory class for your child by calling (585) 663-4810. You can also learn more about their gym schedule online. Download the Victors app free on Android® and Apple®. You can sign up for classes, get reminders and exclusive deals, make a payment, or watch videos. Download it here.