The Inner Game of Tennis

By Jackson Fossen

I began taking notes the minute I started reading The Inner Game of Tennis. I knew this theory could be applied to learning dance—or anything else—but the information I picked up registered in my brain as so valuable that my school mode kicked in, and it was like I was back in class—a class I really liked and recognized the value of.

Some things I had thought independently or been told, but reading them in context with explanation made me realize how powerful some of these techniques are. For a while, I thought it strange to have this book so highly recommended but seemingly contradicted quite frequently, but after I had time to digest it, a few things became more clear.

While performing or competing, we are playing the inner game. This is the time to let Self 2 do what it knows so well and rein back Self 1, stop trying to control our every subconscious move. Practice, on the other hand, is programming. The mirrors found in just about every dance space make even more sense in light of our learning being highly visual. Constant observation of how steps feel is invaluable in helping us understand dance with our bodies.

One missing piece, and one I suspect will be more difficult to incorporate, is letting go of judgment. I have consistently labeled every step as good or bad since I began dancing. It's hard to understand, even in my head, but once it starts happening, I feel it can lead to big changes.

Having already read up on and begun dabbling in meditation, everything about clearing one's head and focusing on just breathing made good sense to me. If I can remember to calm my mind and let go of thoughts while competing, I will be performing my best.

This Inner Game of Tennis reaffirmed what I had learned the hard way at the New Jersey NQE: I am my toughest competitor, and my state of mind can dramatically influence my level of dancing. I have felt the effects of worrying and focusing too much: it not only shows in my expression but makes me dance like it's my first time.

Now that inner game theory has been added to my body of knowledge, it's time to apply it.