I recently found some interesting notes from a major match. I wrote them mid-match and reflected on my performance. I am going to actually copy what I wrote word for word except for a couple spelling corrections in this blog. There are a couple revelations I noted, but most interesting was that I commented on the fact that it really did not matter what type of event I exposed myself to, as the exposure to that type of pressure was the key thing of value. Anyway, read it and take away what you can!

My notes on pressure: “I write this as I sit in my car at the 2009 pro-am, which at this point I am shooting like A$$. Pressure and learning to operate in it are the key to success at the top of the game. Skills are important, but operating under pressure is the key. I am in a negative emotional control state, and an not playing to my strengths. Training in the future should include exposure to pressure at (more) national caliber matches. Ultimately it is not the match type that you shoot that matters, but the exposure to the pressure at that type of match. Emotional control zone today had been influenced by the presence of the bigdogs, (max, rob, etc.). Increasing heart rate during training may also be a good way to train for these conditions. Simple mistakes become big in these conditions.
Lessons and Thoughts (after re-reading my notes):
- The Modules of Success that I refer to in the training program (YCHTP) are inclusive of not just practice habits (dry fire, live fire, etc.), but also exposure to “game day” events, i.e. matches. Without this pressure, there is no way to really judge your training program and skill. You MUST expose yourself to the environment you wish to succeed in.
- Pressure can also be simulated, both by modifying your training drills for an increased heart rate, but also by simulating mental stress by creating do or die situations. An example would be to set up a drill that required a certain sequence, and get some good times you can perform the drill in. Then give yourself one chance to shoot the drill with great hits in that time, no second chance to simulate the pressure of a stage or “must perform” situation.
- Skills must be developed and tested under pressure. There is almost NO way to simulate the true pressure that you will experience at the event, so the best way is to simply shoot more matches. This is a personal problem I have had to deal with due to my teaching schedule. It’s pretty simple in the end, the better your skills are honed in the pursuit of mastery, the more you need to rely on “pressure testing events” to really see where you are. There is simply no other way!
Until Then – Train Hard!
Mike S.
5 thoughts on “Quick Tip: Pressure”
Mike, thanks for sharing this reflection. I can relate to your experience. My performance in local competitions is often disappointing relative to my performance during practice sessions. At practice, I find myself able to shoot good strings, getting into the zone; finding my target, controlling recoil, watching the muzzle rise and return to target, and get off another shot quickly. Yet it competition, that zone is elusive at times. So you’re right, only the pressure of competition reveals your real level of skill. I’ll continue to practice to be able to increase my experience ‘in the zone, but also to seek out competition to experience shooting within the pressure zone of competition.
That was supposed to be hints btw and not hinys!
Thanks! 🙂
As a competitive athlete in an Olympic level pressure takes on a whole new meaning. Here’s some hinys that may help. Really make the effort to learn Self Hypnosis.Then apply this process to imagery.You will be able to put yourself in a state that has you “being and competing in a match”.It will help you immensely. It’s not easy and it takes constant work. (It’s analagous to mental dry firing) One advantage….It can be done at bed-time. I suggest finding a hypnotherapist to get you on the right road.Good luck. Have great respect for your show.
Wonderful comment and insight! Thanks!!