Introduction
Martial arts is a very thrilling sport and in that regard, it usually stimulates adrenaline whenever a player is getting into action. Nonetheless, in some cases, players have often suffered broken dreams because they wavered at the moment they were required to be fully in control of their actions and concentrate on the game. Developing anxiety is normal though the consequences if not handled properly can be very damaging as the player could commit an inexplicable error. Psychologists have over the years studied the way people behave in sports and have come to some very valuable conclusions that could affect performance. A martial artist who has ever been in any tough competition or had to fight in defense understands that to win, it needs input that is more than the good skills. There is no doubt that physical fitness and techniques are essential for superb performance. But competing in a very competitive environment is very tricky since it appears like a threatening environment. The ability to concentrate and control individual physiological arousal is very important and this will go a long way in helping the individual to be able to manage critical fears and self-doubts.
Taking Control
The martial artist has to begin by perfecting the skills. Mental factors become critical at this point in that during training, one has to ensure that he/she properly knows how to execute kicks, punches, submission, or takedowns (Burton & Raedeke, 2008, p. 291). These are to be achieved by the physical strength of the brain. Applying psychology in martial arts seems like a new undertaking but elite players are already practicing the essential skills and have done this for years now even when it was not clear to them that it was psychology(Chapman et al, 1997, 1273). Great examples include legend and martial arts expert Bruce Lee.
Winning Feeling
this means that the player should not tense, but try to calm down and feel ready not thinking about the strength of the opponent but dreaming of being determined flexible, aware, and alive(Burton & Raedeke, 2008, p. 291). The martial artist is encouraged to dream about the best game where he/she performed the topmost skills then recall all the details that create the feeling of winning. The most significant characteristics of a winning strategy will just come to mind. This can assist in having optimum competition as the mind is set to win. This is that ability to regulate anxiety and stay in control of the physiological arousal especially considering that there is a tough game coming up ahead. Being under pressure, the body is forced to respond in a way that should depict preparedness for optimal performance. Yet in reality, the reaction can vary (Burton & Raedeke, 2008, p. 292). The martial artist should be able to adapt to the best skill for them rather than copy what others do.
Centering
This is a unique strategy that entails concentrating individual thought on the center of the body just behind the navel. This technique is beneficial when there is a break in the course of the game (Weiser et al, 1995, p. 118). The action brings a calming effect on the player where he/she can gain control again and offers a simple but efficient way of counteracting the depressing outcome of anxiety. An individual stands up-right with the feet flat, hangs the arms loosely, and holds shoulders wide apart. Close the eyes and take a breath (Chapman et al, 1997, 1273). When one breathes in, the tension in the upper body goes up but on breathing out, the body attains a calming effect. With continued and even breathing, the body attains control and one reassumes calmness again if a feeling of anxiety was already being felt (Weiser et al, 1995, p. 118).
Believe in Self
Having faith in oneself is a very strong factor because this allows an individual to freely express oneself and therefore exercise real personality strengths. Successful performance depends on faith. This is because an individual can remember the moves learned, make combinations of various techniques, and also reveal the doubts in executing some difficult moves, especially when under attack (Chapman et al, 1997, 1275). When an artist is going to fight or be faced with a match ahead, some things destabilize personal confidence. Without confidence, it is very difficult to stick to the game plan and apply good techniques and be able to make excellent decisions (Weiser et al, 1995, p. 119). Psychologists term self-confidence as self-efficacy. This makes the cornerstone of decision-making for the body to make the motor movements.
Thought-Stop
There is an adage that says people become who they think they are. In this sense, martial artists are encouraged to stop the process of thinking in case they happen to be thinking about negative experiences before a fight air a match. Things like ‘he is the defending champion and five-time winner’ or that he was top of the class usually bring fear. The player should hold that thought for only a few seconds but then let it fade off with the images built in the mind(Weiser et al, 1995, p. 119). One can even follow the process with even more encouraging statements like ‘Am better off now than before’ or ‘this time round I have to win’. This helps in blocking the negative images and unwanted thoughts from escalating into some serious fears that can disrupt the performance of a martial artist (Chapman et al, 1997, 1275). This technique assists in the creation of a sharp change of concentration to keep the player absorbed in the game or fight at hand.
Psychologists affirm that the thoughts that individuals have are their causes and penalties of acts as well. In most cases what individuals tell themselves is what they think. This means the thinking is manipulated. At other times, negative thoughts can interfere. The perception that a person thinks what he/she is has been seen to be true for quite some time (Chapman et al, 1997, 1275). When a person is expected to perform complicated skills under tension, then eliminating thoughts that cause distraction is advised. Then encourage thoughts that support the task ahead and enhance performance like small self-talk.
Concentration
According to the martial arts legend, Lee states that failing to focus is also failing to succeed in this game. During the normal exercises, warming up is important since this helps to loosen the muscles and gets the brain to start thinking about the task ahead (Burton & Raedeke, 2008, p. 292). This way both body and mind get prepared for the game. Failing to do this can precipitate injuries like muscle pulls and lower concentration. During a training session or a fight, an individual is required to be in good condition and give maximum concentration. Failing to do this, grave injuries can take place (Chapman et al, 1997, 1277).
In combat situations or match competition, it is often very easy for an individual to be distracted. There are very many factors that face the individual at that moment, beginning with individual thoughts some of which could be very negative; the opponent on the other side, and probably the coach or fans who all impact on your concentration. It is important to note that the slightest loss of focus can bring out the difference between a win and a loss (Burton & Raedeke, 2008, p. 292. This is usually referred to by martial arts experts as the biggest cause of failure. Being able to direct the attention correctly is essential for artists and fighters and it’s required at the right time to achieve optimal performance.
Goal-oriented
People do not always beat their goals but are usually set for them to aim at. Goals offer a sense of direction for the players and fighters and it is often a cause for success (Weiser et al, 1995, p. 120). In the psychology of sports, it is very hard to meet the goals since there are a lot of challenges that need to be addressed. The goals are still achievable and this way they enhance performance considering that the fighter believes that she/he can make it easier. When the goals are set and the success is measurable, there is great motivation (Chapman et al, 1997, 1277). Goals should not entirely concentrate on results for instance achieving a win. Rather they should also base on performance and enhancing specific skills. This makes a great motivation that can suppress anxiety.
Conclusion
Anxiety is a means by which the body reacts to the threats by releasing adrenaline in preparation to fight or flee and also to express fright. Bodies tend to have an automatic response to these situations especially immediately the body interprets a situation that can cause harm. Considering that there is always a reaction when threatened, it is important to learn how to handle the situation. In martial arts, when the demands of matches and fights are exceedingly above individual capacity, anxiety is inevitable.
Reference List
Burton, S & Raedeke, T. (2008), ‘Sports Psychology for Coaches,’ International Journal of Sports Science and Coaching, Vol 3, Issues 2 pp 291-293
Chapman, C., et al (1997), ‘Anxiety, Self-Confidence and Performance in Tae Kwon-Do, Percept Mot Skills, 85 (3 Pt 2):1275-8.
Weiser, M., et al (1995), ‘Psychotherapeutic Aspects of the Martial Arts,’ Am J Psychother, winter; 49 (1) Pp118-27