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Writer's picturePheonix Drewell

5 Tips to Prevent Choking Under Pressure in Performance





Choking under pressure can significantly hinder performance, leading to a decrease in skill execution and overall achievement. Here we will explore the concept of choking in sports, and most importantly, we will give you five effective tips to prevent #choking under pressure.


Physical and Psychological Symptoms:

Athletes experiencing choking under pressure may encounter various physical symptoms, such as tightness, tension, shakiness, and tiredness. Additionally, psychological symptoms such as panic, #worry, #feelingrushed, and uncertainty may also manifest.


Tips to Prevent Choking Under Pressure:

  1. Implement a Pre-Performance Routine: Develop a pre-performance routine consisting of task-relevant thoughts and behaviors. This routine can help focus yourr attention on relevant cues, reducing the likelihood of choking. It may involve deep breathing, using cue words, and maintaining timing consistency.

  2. Left-Hand Contractions: Left-hand contractions or making a tight fist with the left hand before performing can activate the right hemisphere of the brain associated with motor performance. This technique may help suppress analytical processes and reduce choking tendencies.

  3. Pressure Acclimatisation Training: Expose yourself to practice sessions with simulated pressure and anxiety. By training under anxiety-inducing conditions, you can become accustomed to performing under stress, reducing the likelihood of choking in actual high-pressure situations.

  4. Quiet Eye Training: Quiet eye training involves maintaining a final visual fixation on a relevant target before executing a skill. This technique has shown promising results in reducing choking. #underpressure.

  5. #Mindfulness and Mental Skills Training: Incorporate mindfulness practices and mental skills training into your routines. These techniques help you develop focus, resilience, and self-regulation skills, enabling you to better manage anxiety and perform optimally under pressure.



Tips from mental skills training for athletes



Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by pressure? Do you want to consistently perform at your peak, even in the most challenging situations? Look no further! With personalised coaching sessions, we'll work together to identify your unique strengths and weaknesses, and create a tailored mental toughness training plan that can help you overcome obstacles, maintain focus, and excel under pressure.

During our coaching sessions, we'll explore a range of proven techniques and strategies, including:

🎯 Visualisation and imagery exercises to enhance performance visualisation and mental rehearsal.

💡 Cognitive restructuring to reframe negative thoughts and enhance self-belief.

👥 Goal-setting techniques to establish clear objectives and maintain motivation.

🗣️ Effective self-talk and positive affirmations to boost confidence and resilience.

🧘‍♂️ Mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress and stay centered.

⚙️ Performance routines and rituals to create consistency and optimal performance states.

Don't let your mental game hold you back any longer! Invest in yourself and take your performance to new heights.

Limited spots are available for personalised coaching sessions. To learn more and book your session, send me a direct message.


Let's unlock your true potential and dominate your field!


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