Welcome back! In previous weeks we’ve looked at the importance of various aspects of health and wellbeing for peak poker performance, from hydration and nutrition to handling stress.
As we continue to fine-tune our approach to enhancing performance through health and wellness, this week we're stepping up - quite literally - to tackle a common challenge: the sedentary lifestyle that often goes hand-in-hand with being a poker player. Let’s get moving.
Step away from the table: Integrating movement into your poker routine
It’s no secret that poker involves long periods of sitting, which can take a toll on both your physical health and mental sharpness. Incorporating regular movement into your routine isn’t just good for your body; it keeps your mind alert and ready to tackle a long day of grinding.
Make every break count
Tournament breaks are golden opportunities to get your blood flowing. Instead of scrolling through your phone or talking while standing in the hallways (god forbid listening to a bad beat story) during these intervals, take a brisk walk around the venue.
Just a few minutes of walking can wake up your muscles and re-energize your brain, keeping you sharp for the next couple of levels. Pick the furthest bathroom away on breaks so you can get a good number of steps in before you go back and sit down for another two hours.
Take a morning walk on the Strip
Las Vegas in the summer can feel like you’re walking on the sun, so if you’re playing in the World Series of Poker or any event on the Strip, consider timing your walks. A morning stroll before you take your tournament seat can do wonders. Not only does it give you a burst of natural sunlight to set your circadian rhythm (helping with that crucial sleep schedule we talked about previously), but it’s also much more pleasant before the heat turns the Strip into a skillet.
Alternatively, winding down with an evening walk after the sun sets can also be refreshing and help clear your mind from the day's tensions. You’ll also see some absolutely wild sights on the Strip after the sun goes down, especially on weekends.
Integrating walking into your daily life
Here are some simple strategies to keep moving:
- Set a step goal: Use your phone’s built-in health app to set and hit a daily step goal. Start with something manageable, like 5,000 steps, and build from there.
- Walking breaks with friends: If you’re discussing the last few levels with other players or catching up with a friend, do it on the go. A walking break can kill two birds with one stone, getting you those steps while you strategize with friends for the next couple of levels to come.
- Explore your surroundings: Whether you’re playing in Vegas or elsewhere, use your downtime to explore. Every new city has parks, neighborhoods, or attractions that can turn a simple walk into a mini-adventure. Red Rock Canyon in Vegas is absolutely beautiful and worth heading for during the WSOP.
The bigger picture
While the focus here is on combating the sedentary nature of poker, remember that regular movement has broader health benefits. It reduces the risk of chronic diseases, helps manage weight, and improves your mood and energy levels. So, by moving more, you’re not just becoming a better player; you’re becoming a healthier person.
Next week, we’ll look into additional wellness strategies that can be easily adopted into your lifestyle, further enhancing your performance both on and off the poker table.
Until then, keep moving and remember, little steps can lead to big wins.
