Staying Focused in an MTT

Posted by pokerguru on July 7, 2009

With the WSOP Main Event having begun, the question of how players can stay mentally focused for so many days and such long sessions. The simple answer is that it isn’t very easy and you absolutely have to be prepared if you are going to invest in this marathon tournament and take your shot at poker glory. However, it is not just a session like this that requires preparation. Sitting down at any MTT is a commitment and if you aren’t ready for it, you will find yourself mumbling and walking to the rail because of an unfocused play that costs you your stack.

If you are going to go deep in any tournament, you need to do a couple of things that will help you stay in the game. The most obvious of course is to pay attention to the play of everyone on your table, but keeping that focus is not easy if that is all you are doing. Sitting there staring at the table will turn you into a zombie. Have you ever noticed how many players are wearing headphones in today’s tournaments?

Music is a great way to not only keep your focus, but also a great reminder to keep your play on track. For instance, maybe you want to program some rather aggressive music once an hour or so to mentally trigger you that if your stack in not in good shape, that you need to start making moves. Music also will allow you to enjoy the tournament instead of getting stuck in that zombie state. People are often much more focused under the influence of music. Get that iPod out and put your favorites on there. Just don’t forget that you want to also use it as a trigger to keep that play focused.

Another thing that you may want to consider is to bring some energy snacks to the table with you. Let’s face it, a huge MTT field means a lot of boring hours at the tables. During those long runs when the cards dry out, it is often very difficult to stay sharp and alert. By eating some healthy energy snacks, you can get that much needed boost to keep you alert and ready for that massive run that awaits you.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get out of your seat if you are starting to feel tired. Even if a break is not coming up, get up and take a quick walk after the blinds pass you by. It will get the blood flowing again and re-energize you at the table. When everyone else is falling asleep because of the long hours, you can pounce like a tiger and start scooping pots. It is quite easy to fall into the trap of fold, fold, fold and you want to avoid that at all costs by staying sharp and alert.

An MTT is not an easy thing to win and if you are going to give yourself a true shot, you must come prepared. Physical ability is one thing, but you also have to be mentally prepared for the long hours that you have to put in at that table. The fact that you cannot re-buy means that one simple mistake could lead to you being ousted. Stay sharp and use this tips to give you an advantage and get you to the final table.