You’re on the way to a game or getting suited up in the locker room. Like many other athletes, you’re probably listening to your favorite music. But beyond simply enjoying the sounds, listening to music before a game might actually yield performance benefits.
“Many athletes use music to get mentally ready for competition,” says Dr. Patrick Cohn, a sports psychology expert and owner of Peak Performance Sports (Orlando, Fla.). “Music can be a great method for relieving pre-game anxiety.”
Listen to music that you enjoy and that is appropriate to the situation. Cohn says, “The key is to find music with a level of intensity that’s best for you. It can help set the correct mood or mindset.”
If you don’t like the tracks blasting through the locker room sound system, gear up with a pair of personal headphones. This will ensure that you can get in your zone before a game, which will help you and your team’s performance.
Check out these STACK-recommended headphones.
Skullcandy NCAA Agent ($59.99)
skullcandy.com
Features: Display the logo of your favorite college team with Skullcandy’s stylish headphones, whose over-ear design helps mute the noise around you.

Bose IE2 ($99.95)
bose.com
Features: These ear buds deliver large sound in a compact package. And their new StayHear tips won’t fall out of your ears while you stretch and warm up prior to the game.

Beats by Dre Wireless ($329.95)
beatsbydre.com
Features: These over-ear headphones connect to your phone or music player via Bluetooth, so you won’t waste time untangling wires before a game. Plus, you get powerful high definition sound in a comfortable and lightweight design.

Photo:  loveyalyn.blogspot.com