Over on Insta, I’ve been asked for some recommendations on how to work on your mental game this summer in the off-season. Sure, the sun is shining, and the water is calling, but that doesn’t mean your mental game can’t catch some much-deserved attention. Gear up!

1. Find Your Zen Zone: Picture this: You’re hanging ten on your board, flying through the air on your BMX, or soaring above the halfpipe. The key to success? A zen-like state of mind. Take some time this summer to explore different relaxation techniques that resonate with you. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, or even knitting (hey, don’t knock it till you’ve tried it), find your bliss and let it wash over you like a gentle wave.
2. Embrace the Power of Visualization: Close your eyes and imagine your ultimate triumphs on the course, in the ring, or on the track. Visualize every move, every trick, every victory. Become the director of your own mental blockbuster. By visualizing success, you’ll prime your mind and body to make it a reality. Plus, it’s a great excuse to wear a coach’s hat while practicing!
3. Create Your Mental Soundtrack: Music is the secret weapon that fuels our souls, and the same goes for your mental game. Find tunes that get your blood pumping and put you in the zone. Build a playlist that’s as epic as your biggest tricks. Feel free to belt out your favorite power ballads while pretending to be the star of your own alternative sports movie montage. Trust me, you’ll feel like a champion before you even hit the dirt.
4. Embrace Failure (Yes, Really!): We’ve all tasted the bitter tang of failure. But guess what? It’s an essential ingredient in the recipe for success. Embrace your falls, crashes, and face-plants with a sense of humor. Laugh in the face of adversity and let it fuel your determination. Remember, the road to becoming a mental game ninja is paved with wipeouts. So, get up, dust yourself off, and show the world what you’re made of.
5. Seek Out Community: Behind every successful athlete is a support network that knows the importance of laughter, high-fives, and healthy competition. Surround yourself with fellow alternative sport enthusiasts who understand your passion, share your goals, and never hesitate to give you a friendly push (or shove) when you need it most. Remember, birds of a feather ride together.
6. Keep the Fun Alive: Last but definitely not least, never forget why you fell in love with your sport in the first place. It’s not all about winning medals and topping leaderboards (though those things are pretty sweet). Keep the fun alive by trying new tricks, exploring new terrains, and pushing the limits of what you thought was possible. After all, what’s the point of going big if you’re not having a blast along the way?

Summer doesn’t have to mean an end to training – just a shift in focus, my thrill-seeking comrades. Remember, the real victory is in conquering your fears, embracing your passion, and soaring to new heights—both on and off the playing field. And remember, HAVE FUN.

Catch you on the flip side.