Learn Texas Holdem

Preparing for a Poker Tournament

If you're playing a poker tournament to win, it pays to be prepared. Just as with a sporting event, the player who is most physically and mentally ready going in often has a better chance than his less prepared counterparts do. Of course, this doesn't mean you need to do an hour of bench presses before a tournament, but there are some less drastic things you can do to put yourself in a position to go far.

Exercise

Going deep in a poker tournament means sitting in one place for long stretches of time. Going for a quick walk, run or other workout before the tournament starts will keep the blood flowing so you can remain focused during those seated periods.

Sleep

The more well-rested you are going into a tournament, the easier it will be to stay alert during the game. Some poker tournaments last into the wee hours of the morning, and you don't want to be dropping off just when the big money is at stake.

Assessment

Before the tournament begins, look around. If you are playing an online tournament, examine the screen names or chat to see if you can get any hints as to what a player may be like. Look at any notes you may have on any of the players. In a live tournament, observe how your opponents look when they are not under stress. This may give you a baseline to help you make a decision against this player when the heat is on. Keep your ears open. Players may give you clues on what to watch out for by saying things like "this is my first tournament," (player may be inexperienced), "do you guys play on PokerStars?" (player may be primarily an Internet player), or "I just hope I can get some hands this time" (player may consider himself unlucky, or discount the role his skill or lack thereof plays in his results).

Pre-Game Action

Decide how you want to spend your time waiting for the tournament to start. Sitting at the table for half an hour before the tournament begins may make you antsy, and you may get into the action too quickly. Playing a cash game for "warm-up" could lead to trouble if you end up down and have to enter the tournament with the mental attitude that comes with being down money. Some players like to read a book or magazine before the tournament begins, others like to take the time assessing their opposition, still others may talk to friends while waiting for the action to start.

• Date posted May 11, 2008
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Author

Clark Jensen

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