The Inner Game of Tennis: The Classic Guide to the Mental Side of Peak Performance

In this classic book on mental performance, W. Timothy Galloway shares his “Inner Game” technique in its original conception as applied to tennis. Although some of the book specifically applies the Inner Game techniques to tennis, the idea is that the basic philosophy can be applied to nearly every discipline. In fact, The Inner Game of Tennis has been adapted to many arenas including golf, ski, and even music. The “Inner Game” philosophy states that high performance most often occurs without significant (or any) conscious thought. The aim of the book, therefore, is to teach “how to develop the inner skills, without which high performance is impossible.” The book covers the entire philosophy from its basic premises, to changing your habits, learning to focus, and healthy competition. It is difficult to rate the strength of this book without applying the philosophies in real life. From what I’ve observed, it has merit and value, but it is an approach that may not be for everyone. However, the versatility of the approach is one if the books appeals.

I wasn't ready to read this book until I had been playing 4 years. Winning Ugly was easy to read but this book requires mental maturity and self awareness. Not for everyone but once you get your mind right, an excellent read.

If you have ever played any game, sport, danced, acted, or performed in any way, this book is absolutely essential. After reading the first few chapters of this book, I played a game of pool. I allowed Self 2 to take over and soon began hitting shots that I had always struggled with previously. As my friends looked on in awe, I kept a soft focus and won the game easily. Please, please, please read this book. It will change your life. If you don't read it, your competitor will. Give yourself the advantage of this book.