eSports Training Mystique: Tips, Tactics, and the Growth Mindset

eSports players during a focused training session.

In today’s digital age, eSports has evolved from casual gaming to a professional playing field, rivaling traditional sports in passion and dedication. With a whopping 395 million viewership in 2018, it’s clear that eSports is not just a fleeting trend. It has its athletes, its tactics, and its training methods. But, how exactly do these eSports professionals train? What are the secrets to their success?

Growth Mindset in eSports

One of the most fundamental attributes of top eSports athletes is a growth mindset. This term, introduced by psychologist Carol Dweck, suggests that individuals who believe their abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work are more resilient and adaptable. In the ever-evolving realm of eSports, a growth mindset is invaluable. When faced with a new strategy in League of Legends or a shift in tactics in Counter-Strike, players with a growth mindset are more likely to adapt and overcome rather than become overwhelmed.

Internal Locus of Control: Mastering One’s Game

Equally vital is the internal locus of control. Players who believe they have the agency to influence outcomes through their actions are more likely to invest time in training and self-improvement. Imagine playing Valorant and attributing every loss to external factors like game mechanics or luck. Such a player is less likely to engage in meaningful self-analysis and growth.

Key Insights from the Latest eSports Training Study:

Understanding Game Dynamics: Whether you’re an RL enthusiast or a LoL professional, recognizing the specific skills and tactics essential for your game is fundamental. Aim, strategy, and reaction time often top the list.
Balancing Training and Gameplay: Professional players may spend up to 20 hours a week playing, but a significant chunk of that is dedicated to pure training. For those just starting, this balance between gameplay and focused training is a valuable lesson.
Embracing Team Dynamics: Team games demand effective collaboration and feedback. Recognizing the value of teamwork, even in traditionally single-player games, can significantly impact performance.
Diversifying Training Resources: While many players rely on advice from peers, only a small fraction tap into scientific sources or hire professional trainers. As eSports continues to grow, the need for specialized and researched-based training will inevitably rise.
The Role of Physical Fitness: Stamina and physical fitness may not be the most prioritized training areas, but as eSports become more mainstream, the importance of holistic well-being for players will likely gain traction.

Conclusion:

Embarking on an eSports journey requires more than just technical skills and gameplay hours. Embracing a growth mindset, believing in one’s agency (internal locus of control), and continuously adapting to the dynamic gaming environment are equally, if not more, crucial. For those with a passion for eSports, whether you’re starting your journey or aiming to refine your strategies, remember – your mindset and belief systems play a pivotal role. As you level up in the game, ensure you’re also leveling up in mindset. Game on!

Sources

Nagorsky E, Wiemeyer J. The structure of performance and training in esports. PLoS One. 2020 Aug 25;15(8):e0237584. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237584. Erratum in: PLoS One. 2021 Apr 13;16(4):e0250316. PMID: 32841263; PMCID: PMC7447068.

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