5 Ways To Prevent Poker Burn Out

Poker Burn Out

Anyone who has played poker for a few years will probably relate to this article. Poker burn out is a real challenge that affects lots of poker players. It doesn’t just effect weak players or those who chase losses. In fact, it could be argued it is more prevalent among winning players and professionals. In this article, we will take a look at five ways to overcome burning out.

Beginner Texas Hold’em Question

What is “Burn Out” in poker?

To burn out is to play too much poker. So much so, that it affects your game negatively. You are physically and mentally exhausted from playing too much and it is causing you to make poor poker decisions. This almost always leads to losing money.

1) Play When “On It”

Most player who suffer from burn out follow the same routine. They play, regardless of their mental state. This is because they’ve almost become robotic in their poker playing. They play on certain days or times, irrespective of whether they are prepared for the game.

Poker is not an easy game to win money at. To give yourself the best chance, you need to be playing when you’re free of stress, and focused on the game. When you’re mind is elsewhere, and not on the game, you’re missing a massive part of winning. You will make poorer bluffs, stubborn calls and not pick up on opponents tendencies. Games will always be there so don’t feel obligated to play if you’re not ready.

2) Sleep Well

Some poker players seem to think the laws of nature don’t apply to them. How many players do you know that play at the casino until unholy hours, get 3 hours sleep then proceed to play the following afternoon? This is not an uncommon sight and never ceases to baffle me.

I don’t care what line of work you’re in – rest is key to functioning properly. Getting lots of sleep will ensure your mentally and physically ready for the day ahead. This is especially true if you want to play slow paced tournaments that span several days. Getting your full quota of sleep is an effective way to prevent poker burn out and will help your win rate.

3) Get A Second Opinion

People find it hard to judge themselves properly. Getting another person’s opinion is a good idea as they are more likely to be impartial. When you’re starting to creep into burn out territory, a friend or poker coach might be able to identify it. If you’ve played a lot recently, losing and unsure why – ask a trusted party whether they think you might be burning out. If they say yes, take a few days off and come back when you’re ready.

4) Explore Other Interests

One of the reasons players suffer from burn out is their only interest is poker. It’s important to train your mind and not focus on just one thing. The good thing about learning about other subjects is that it can compliment your poker game. For example, learning Excel spreadsheets , reading psychology or gambling on something else like sports betting. Whilst none of these subjects will mention poker rules or strategy, both have intrinsic value to your poker game.

Learning spreadsheets may help you with poker maths or record keeping. Psychology will help you understand your opponents better and probably help your hand reading skills. Understanding more about sports betting at sites like Free Bets India will strengthen your poker maths. By exploring other interests, you will be keeping your mind sharp while also taking the necessary time away from poker.

5) Have An Exercise Routine

I’m not a physical trainer but it’s common knowledge that exercising regularly helps your mental acuity too. There’s a lot to be said for staying in good shape. Having decent stamina levels and endurance will undoubtedly help the longer sessions and long tournament days. The mental and physical side of our bodies are twinned. If one succeeds, the other wants to.

Regular exercise is a great way to combat poker fatigue and help you avoid burn out. It’s also likely to make you feel better and happy, both of which will help your frame of mind when you fire up a session.

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