Why Do You Change Under Pressure (PNS vs SNS)

In this episode of BreakPoint Battle, Gira Schofield breaks down one of the biggest missing links in tennis performance: the nervous system. Have you ever walked off the court after a match wondering: “How did I just lose like that?” You know deep down that’s not how you normally play. Your strokes were there in practice. Your confidence was there before the match. But then the pressure kicked in—and suddenly your body felt completely different. This episode explores:Why your game changes under pressureThe difference between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systemsHow “fight or flight” impacts your breathing, timing, confidence, and movementWhy practice doesn’t always transfer into matchesA simple awareness tool players can use during competition Gira also shares personal experiences from her own tennis career and explains why feeling nervous before matches does not mean something is wrong with you. Instead of fighting your body during pressure moments, this episode teaches players how to begin working with their nervous system.Key Topics:Parasympathetic vs. sympathetic nervous systemImpact of pressure on performancePractical nervous system regulation techniquesChapters:00:00 Introduction: Why Do We Lose Composure in Matches?00:27 The Fight or Flight Response in Tennis01:19 Understanding the Nervous System: Rest vs. Fight02:07 The Role of the Nervous System in Performance03:04 Signs of Parasympathetic Activation: Calm and Confidence03:30 How Pressure Activates the Sympathetic Nervous System04:00 Physical and Mental Changes Under Pressure04:23 Why Practice Doesn't Always Transfer to Match Situations04:52 Managing Nerves: Personal Experience and Insights05:11 Practical Tips to Recognize Nervous System Activation05:54 The Power of Awareness and Regulation06:20 Join the Community: Improve Under Pressure🎾 Follow the HTP Podcast to train your mind and body for competition.New Episode Every Friday!🎙️Full episode streaming on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.~The New Era of Tennis Performance~