Channelling the Competitive Streak

I was speaking to a couple of young athletes last week on how they were faring, and how they adjust to learning new skills. Both gave examples of when they were returning from a layoff, or trying to practice a new skill but then being put into competition with other players. The dilemma is trying get better for the long term, but not wanting to lose in the short term.

The secret is to channel that competitive urge into the skill itself, or to do drills that put that skill into practice without being destructive to the overall process.

I try and get the competitive spirit going in every session – but for the athlete to compete with themselves. In groups it is difficult,  because you want everyone to get better and to set their own standards- not just being the best of that small group. That is harder for the best people- just think of being the number 1 downhill skier in Great Britain- where does that leave you in World Rankings?

Other athletes I train do not want to try anything new or that is out of their comfort zone because they don’t want to come 2nd- I don’t think they will make it to the big leagues in the long term.

(Thanks to Max, Flo and Angela for the insights).