Staying mentally sharp for long live sessions.

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FoBreeze

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Anyone do anything in particular to stay alert for long live sessions. I play cash games and sometimes I loose my mental sharpness after 4-6 hours of playing straight.
 
smallfrie

smallfrie

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I concentrate on physical tells constantly at the table. I stare at different opponents the whole time I am playing, it keeps me from not paying attention and getting bored and making mistakes.
 
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HappyGilmore

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You have to take your mind away from the action from time to time. That time is different for everybody, but it is a must. It is just like driving for an extremely long distance. You have to get out of the car periodically, you have to relieve yourself also, you need to keep yourself hydrated as well. Obviously we aren't sweating a lot at the table but to preform at your top level your body has to be taken care of..
I don't play live much but when I do I can sit for more than a couple hours without at least getting up and stretching my legs.
 
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ThanJay

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I find that some of the best things you can do are to get your blood pumping a little. Go outside and do some pushups or jumping jacks or jog in place for a few minutes. you may look like an idiot, but it really helps to clear your mind a little bit.
Strongly recommended after taking a bad beat, too.
 
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oshriam

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yea playing too long time it's too much hard for stay sharp...
 
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Dartmatrix

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I'm a Darts player. And in the sport of darts 80% of the game is mental. When in a match your adrenaline goes up, it heightens your concentration. After the match the adrenaline drops fast, like coming down from a sugar rush. Your concentration and focus is off. making it hard to get your self ready for your next game.

What this has to do with Poker? Well, because the same method's I use in Darts to keep my concentration and focus. I apply to poker.

1) I never stop playing every hand on the table (even when I'm not in them) this helps me keep a strong read on all the players on the table. My mind doesn't wonder.

2) I never listen to music, text or any thing that will distract me from the game. Nothing more then listening to music, or other distraction can take me out of a game and loose my concentration and focus. (And put me to sleep)

3) If/when I do loose my mental sharpness (concentration) I take a break. Go to the bathroom, walk out side. Anything that gets me away from the table for a few minutes together my thoughts. Reminding yourself of why you are there and what your goal is, is the best way to recharge that battery and keep you mentally sharp.

This helps me when I play in very long sessions. Staying mentally sharp is just that, mental. Your mind always needs something to do. If it's not doing something it's sleeping. So if you train your mind to stay focused. You will stay mentally sharp.
 
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