Prodigy Coach Forum

Guru · Pro Joined: 26 Nov 2007 Posts: 50

I teach players this anchor as it (a) helps them focus, (b) relaxes muscle tension and (c) eliminates distractions both internal and external.

Its a lot more helpful for a bowler than the call to "come on, focus - concentrate" which, while being well meant, rather begs the question "how"? Plus - if you've ever had the yips then this anchor will save you from the humiliating frustration of losing it big time.

The sequence is as follows:
* As you get to the start of your run up, pause.
* Take a deep abdo breath in as you feel the ball in your hand.
* Exhale slowly as you visualize unplugging a basin full of water
* When the water has all run away and the full (relaxed) exhale is reached, then start your run up.

As you get more familiar with it, really allow your jaw to slacken and your cheeks to flatten as you start your run up. This will keep you relaxed and more in rhythm.

If you are bowling well and in a good rhythm you wont need to use this anchor all the time. But if you are a fast/seamer/swing bowler it is really handy to help you re-centre after you have gone for runs - or if there has been a delay for drinks, or a new batsman coming in for instance.

Here again - the need to be familiar with and use abdominal breathing is paramount.

Guru