Mental training in eSports: the key factor for success

Mental training in eSports has become an extremely important aspect. High-performing players in eSports not only master mechanical skills but are also mentally prepared to face the challenges that arise in competitions.

In these lines, we will explore the importance of mental preparation and how to implement it in the training of gamers.

The importance of mental training

Mental training in eSports has become crucial due to several fundamental reasons:

• Competitive Pressure: High-level competitions can be extremely stressful. Players face pressure to perform well in front of large audiences and in highly competitive scenarios.
• Concentration: In esports, concentration is essential. Competitors must maintain a high level of attention during long matches and often face high-tension situations.
• Emotional resilience: The ability to bounce back quickly after a defeat and maintain a positive mindset is essential for continued success.
• Making decisions under pressure: In the heat of competition, players must make quick and effective decisions that often have a huge impact on the outcome of the game.

Mental training techniques in eSports

To mentally prepare for competition, players can use a variety of techniques and strategies, always guided by qualified people. SportCoach Academy

Some of them are:

• Visualisation: This involves imagining yourself playing different scenarios. By visualising game situations and making correct decisions, players can increase their confidence and reduce anxiety, as well as prepare and assist in decision-making in future situations that may arise.
• Breathing and relaxation: Slow breathing and relaxation techniques can help competitors stay calm in high-pressure situations. These techniques reduce anxiety and promote concentration.
• Goal Setting: Setting clear, achievable goals is essential to staying focused and motivated. Goals can include technical improvements, in-game actions, or team goals.
• Controlling internal dialogue: Managing internal dialogue is essential. Learning to identify and change negative or self-critical thoughts and replacing them with positive affirmations makes it easier to avoid entering a state of negativity that negatively affects performance.
• Emotional resilience: It is essential to bounce back from defeats or mistakes and maintain a positive mindset at all times, especially during long series. Being able to reset your mind and focus on the now will help maintain optimal performance.
• Developing routines: Establishing routines before and after games can help players feel prepared and in control of the situation. Routines can include mental and physical warm-up exercises or team dynamics such as goal review.

Integrating mental training into training

To integrate mental training in eSports into player training, teams and coaches can follow these steps, always supervised or developed by specialized professionals:

• Raise awareness: Ensure understanding of the importance of mental training and its benefits for performance.
• Regular training: Integrate mental training exercises into daily practice sessions, such as including concentration and relaxation exercises.
• Monitoring and feedback: Track players’ progress in mental training and provide constructive feedback, helping them progress in implementing these tasks.
• Team Support: Foster a constructive and supportive environment where members feel comfortable sharing their goals, and emotions, and seeking help when needed.