Turning Practice into Performance

 

Practicing the Power of Now by Eckart Tolle:

Practice feeling the inner body, within. The origin of your body’s energy is in the heart, the center. Observe it, feel it. As you go about your days, come back to this sensation. Notice it, allow it to be your center. Save some of your attention for your inner body. Don’t allow 100% of your attention to be external.

As I translate this into my tennis game, let your body tell you what shot needs to come next. Your training has been programmed for your body to do exactly as it needs. Trust your instincts. Notice where you can perform better during your practices by tuning into your body and how it reacts. Use your awareness to spot opportunities to attack and step into the court to take away time.

As I transition back outdoors, I intend to give myself more time from the baseline. Adjust to the bounce with intense footwork using your intensity to will your way through points. By giving myself more time, I can make the small adjustment steps to position my body optimally for each shot.