How to calm my nerves

You are probably right when you mentioned that I am probably too tense and nervous, which causes some footwork problems during matches. Are there any ways to keep myself relaxed? to loosen up?

Hi Paul,

This is a very big topic and there are lots of different ideas on how to calm your nerves.

Some suggestions are to sing to yourself while playing so that you keep your deliberate thinking out of the process so you can play naturally.

Other ideas are to concentrate on your breathing. Just focus on taking a few deep breaths. Again the idea is to take your mind away from any negative thoughts so you can be "in the moment".

Developing a pre-point routine is also a good idea. This way as you go into the routine, it is familiar and helps you have a clear mind.

Just the fact that you are aware of some tension will help you deal with the issue. Good luck and let me know if any of the tips above help.