If you stand tall make eye contact have your arms crossed and say no in a firm voice
Answer:
First of all CONGRADULATIONSSS!! I used to take martial arts classes and didn’t make it so far but I know tournaments of any profession can put a lot of pressure on a person.
You definitely have a good start with training your hardest over the next few days. I found that using a schedule really helped me out: consistency is key, which was unironically one of sensei’s biggest suggestions.
Whenever I had a test or challenge of some sort that required hard practice, i would set times (usually in hour periods) at the same time for a few days in a row. Id take breaks in between, but wouldn’t get so comfortable that getting back up was difficult. Staying on my feet or only sitting for a short time is good, so you can decide how long the break should be.
Apart from practice, drinking water, getting sleep, and eating right are obvious helpers. Work is important but it can’t be done without rest, otherwise there won’t be any progress or improvement.
And yes, being nervous is completely natural, which I’m sure you’ve heard before but it’s true. Try focusing on improving your own skills before comparing it to anyone else. Sensei’s TA would always tell us to have a balance with it, like yeah you should consider how strong your opponent is but it shouldn’t make you any more afraid of them, or afraid of loss. What matters is how much you fight for what you want.
This was kind of a rant but I really hope it helps, and good luck with the tournament!! Let me know if you have any questions <3
