Why can't you fight how you spar in training? Why are you so stiff, clumsy, and fatigued? The key to understanding your first fight performance is to recognise the undeniable influence of your psychology on your physiology! Yerkes-Dodson anyone? In this episode, we discuss the tipping point between the optimal amount of stress to achieve your best and dropping over the cliff edge into the shadow of your real capability... Robbing you of your movement, mobility, fitness, technique and fight IQ! And if you're new to competition, this tipping point is far more easily exceeded – and to be expected!! Here's just what to expect from your first fight(s) and how to swing your mindset toward a better outcome, quickly. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Yerkes-Dodson Anyone? 00:15 Optimal ANS Arousal – More Isn't Better 01:02 The Cost Of Being Over Aroused 01:36 For Your First Fight It's Expected! 02:23 Should You Change Your Training? 02:56 How Your Personality Affects Performance 03:51 How Good or Bad Valence Affects Performance 05:34 Fear And Excitement – Same Brain Cocktail! 06:22 Fight Experience Matters Further notes and resources at https://heatrick.com/2024/05/17/understanding-your-first-fight-performance-both-before-and-after/