Girl Club Poker

Poker a human game that takes it toll

It’s a maintenance thing and something that we take for granted in the game, but getting the feel good factor in you before and during the game is a must and something that any professional player will tell you.

There are 4 main areas that we need to take care of before or during a game, and these are Comfort, Distractions, Food and Sleep (which we can’t do during obviously).

Comfort is something that is the simplest to over look and one issue that could turn a long game into a nightmare, so you need to address this at the beginning of any tournament that has the potential of lasting hours. Uncomfortable positioning has the knock on effect of distracting you later in the game when you need your wits about you.

Distractions come in many forms, but the ones that we need to address are generally the mental distractions that we focus on subconsciously. Stress at home, work or private is something that mentally strains your concentration and results in you having a hard time playing your best game.
Here there are a couple of big no’s too, such as alcohol or drugs during the game. It’s not our place to judge here and what you do in your own homes is between you and your cat, but trying to play a perfect game when you are drunk or stoned isn’t possible and regardless what you think, isn’t going to produce a great game. Moderation in the game is everything, so get a drink that lasts and preferably one that hydrates.

Food is also something that you should manage well before a game. If you start a game and you are hungry, then eventually that’s all you will think about, so eat well before a long game and or keep snacks close by that will act as a pick up and not a complete filler. Too much is also problematic.

Sleep or lack of is the biggest concentration killer here and if you have had a night shift from hell and sit down to a 4 hour game, then the sleep deprivation that you will be feeling will kick in and the game will be lost and you won’t know why. Losing the game usually means losing your stack, so think on.

Basically these are just simple guide lines, but if you are a healthy person that is also a sensible person, then none of the above should play too much of a role on your game, but, if one of the above makes an impact in your game, then the end is in sight. Give yourself a chance to get into the game without silly distractions and the play will get better. If you feel that it’s not right, then just shut down and walk away.