Just like any other high-intensity sport, volleyball can be a very rewarding and a very demanding experience. It can be filled with many ups and downs and could cause a flare up in emotions which could very well lead to issues with the game. Anyone who takes volleyball seriously will tell you that pregame stress can be a contributing factor to a hampered performance. Here are a few easy ways to ease stress before an upcoming volleyball game.

Think of a few leisurely recreational activities you can do before the game

It can be something as simple as playing your favourite video game or perhaps just writing in your journal. As a matter of fact, if you happen to be fond of sports betting in any way, shape or form, bet365 is a pretty good place to tilt the odds in your favour. The fact of the matter is, simply letting pregame stress stew in your head isn’t going to do you any good. Instead, think of leisurely recreational activities that you enjoy doing, and do them before the game. Not only will it provide a good distraction, but it’ll help you feel much better when it’s finally time to play volleyball.

Be confident in what you’re capable of

While this might seem like an obvious thing to say, the hours leading up to a volleyball game can be stressful for any athlete who isn’t particularly confident in his or her abilities. A lot of that stress comes from being afraid of possibly messing things up for everyone else. Understand that only you know how you tick. Only you know exactly what you’re capable of. Focus on your abilities and how you can make the most out of them. Trust yourself to be able to do things your way. You’ll be surprised at what that can do to ease the stress.

Interact with your team

Spending time with players from your team before the big game is a great way to calm the pregame jitters. It allows everyone to talk about the upcoming game, and add a bit of levity back to the whole situation. If everyone seems to be tightly wound, try to break the ice, make a joke! Even if it’s a bad one, someone is bound to laugh and add in a joke of their own. Help everyone else relax and they’ll be more than happy to help you relax and feel better.

Keep in mind that even if volleyball is a competitive sport, it’s still something that needs to be enjoyed when all is said and done. It’s completely understandable for some anxiety to pop up before a big game, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence. Keep the tips above in mind, and do your best to relax. It’s going to be a great game ahead!