Getting Into the Zone

Martial artists tend to enjoy activities most relevant to improving their performance. The more relevant they find a task, the greater emphasis they placed on concentration. Mental skills used by martial artists during pre-competition to achieve peak performance and flow include visualization, raising emotion, warm-up routines, and focus. During the competition, the mental skills involve focus/concentration, relaxation, and a strong motivation to win. Post-competition involves an assessment of performance and mental skills growth.

Achieving flow is dynamic process that involves transitions in and out of flow as well as growth over time. In addition, confidence is an important aspect to the attainment of peak moments during competition.