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The Inner Game of Tennis
The ultimate guide to the mental side of peak performance
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Check link for latest rating. ( 25,884 ratings, 2,257 reviews)
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Format: Paperback / softback
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40th anniversary edition of the classic sports psychology bestseller.
40th anniversary edition of the classic sports psychology bestseller.
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Description
The Inner Game of Tennis by W. Timothy Gallwey is not just a book about mastering the technicalities of tennis but an exploration of the psychological aspects that can take your performance to the next level. Since its first publication in 1972, this multi-million bestseller has revolutionised the way both amateurs and pros approach the game. Gallwey introduces the concept of an "inner game," a mind-centric strategy that emphasises overcoming self-doubt, anxiety, and the internal obstacles that impede peak performance.
Described by tennis legend Billie Jean King as her "tennis bible," this seminal work includes an insightful introduction from acclaimed sports psychologist Geoff Beattie, detailing how Gallwey’s teachings have stood the test of time. The book is not limited to tennis; its principles have been adapted for various fields, including business and personal development, making it a versatile guide for self-improvement.
At the heart of The Inner Game of Tennis is the contention that every game has two components: the outer game, which is the physical match played against an opponent, and the inner game, which happens internally as players deal with their thoughts and emotions. Gallwey argues that the inner game is paramount, as it can be won or lost before a ball is ever hit.
Leveraging insights from Zen philosophy and humanistic psychology, Gallwey offers readers a toolkit to enhance concentration, build willpower, and boost confidence. His revolutionary approach teaches players how to trust their instincts, maintain mental clarity, and stay focused under pressure. He provides practical exercises and strategies for breaking bad habits, managing stress, and developing a persistent, positive mindset.
Whether you’re a weekend player aiming to improve your performance or a professional looking for that extra edge, The Inner Game of Tennis is essential reading. This book guarantees to change how you approach not just tennis, but any challenge that requires the delicate balance of mental fortitude and physical prowess.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Inner Game of Tennis by W Timothy Gallwey is highly praised for its insightful advice on both the mental and physical aspects of tennis. Bill Gates considers it the best book on tennis he has ever read, noting that its profound advice also applies broadly to other areas of life.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781447288503
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 18 June 2015
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Pan Books
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 11.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 197.0mm
Weight: 120g
Pages: 160
About the Author
Ever since Timothy Gallwey missed a heartbreakingly easy volley on match point in the National Junior Tennis Championship at the age of fifteen, he has been fascinated with the problem of how human beings interfere with their own ability to achieve and learn. His search for practical ways to overcome the mental obstacles that prevent maximum performance led to the basic discoveries first described in this, his bestselling classic. Since the completion of The Inner Game of Golf he spends most of his time in the Los Angeles office of the Inner Games Corporation, developing an Inner Game approach to such diverse fields as selling, management, stress, diet, music and the quality of work. He is the author of The Inner Game of Golf, The Inner Game of Tennis, and the co-author of The Inner Game of Music. Geoff Beattie is an academic psychologist, writer and broadcaster, who has worked as the psychologist on Big Brother, as well as the Professor of Psychology at Edge Hill University and a Masters supervisor on the Sustainability Leadership programme at the University of Cambridge. He was Visiting Professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2012. Born in Belfast, he obtained a First from the University of Birmingham and a Ph.D. from Trinity College, Cambridge. He was awarded the prestigious Spearman Medal by the British Psychological Society for 'published psychological work of outstanding merit'. In addition, he has written regularly for the Guardian and the Independent and has published several books on aspects of contemporary British life. His book, On the Ropes: Boxing as a Way of Life, was shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year.
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