A big series hits different. A deep run in a WCOOP event feels different, heck it is different. Bigger prize pools mean more pressure and bigger pay jumps the deeper you go. A big score in a big event could make or break your year. So, it’s important to be in the right place both mentally and physically if you want to bring your A-Game night after night. That’s easier said than done though, and what works for one person may not work for another, it’s all about finding what works for you, but here are a few ways to make sure you’re ready for when the next big series rolls around.

Take A Break

A series like WCOOP lasts for over three weeks and comprises of hundreds of tournaments. The good news is that with three tiers of buy-ins there are events to suit all pockets and you can hit the tables day after day in search of tournament glory. But, if things go to plan that’s going to mean multiple days comprising of long hours of play, which will be mentally taxing, even for the most grizzled poker veteran.

So before a big series, taking time out to recharge the batteries so you’re at 100% when the series begins can help ensure your energy levels stay high during the crucial moments that are (hopefully) to come.

Hit The Lab

It can be hard to take a complete break from the game, so if you’re still wanting to scratch that poker itch then studying off the table is a great way to stay mentally sharp. It’s what some of the best in the game do, so if it’s good enough for them…

There are many different ways to study, from the most obvious, like reading strategy articles or posting a hand history on the PokerStars Discord server. Or, if you rarely play satellites outside of a big series, brush up on your “sat strat”, it could save you a lot of money if you can satellite into events for a fraction of the entry fee.

Learn A New Game

Whilst NLHE will dominate the schedule of a big series, there’s plenty of variety and some of poker’s lesser lights have the spotlight shone on them. One way to keep poker fun is to play more than just NLHE and picking a new game or games is a great way to stay focused.

If you still want a flop, turn and river, then Pot-Limit Omaha, Limit Hold’em and 6+ Hold’em are right there waiting for you. If you want something a little more old school, then Stud, Stud8 and 5-Card Draw and still around and if you want to fully embrace the Mixed Games Movement then try your hand at HORSE or 8-Game.

The good news it that whichever variant you target, there are daily tournaments from as little as $1.10 available.

Make A Schedule

Boring! Yeah no one likes spreadsheets, we get it. But hear us out. Setting out a rough schedule ahead of time can really help. Firstly, plenty of events will run over two days, so unless you’re a professional poker player then you’ll have to juggle work, life and a deep run. If you’re entering a multi-day event, make sure you know when Day 2 restarts so you can plan accordingly.

Secondly, planning ahead can mean that you don’t find yourself missing events you want to play, or find yourself playing more tables than you usually do. With so many big prize pools on offer it can be tempting to play everything, or at least play more tables than you usually do. Don’t, instead focus on quality over quantity.

And, we’ve saved the best for last, you don’t even need a spreadsheet! On PokerStars you can save your favourite tournaments with a single click in the PokerStars lobby, allowing you to easily access your favourite tournaments.

Set Limits

Bigger fields mean increased variance so it’s crucially important to set limits, stick to them and avoid chasing loses. Before a series starts set a limit for the biggest buy-in you’re prepared to play. If you want to take shots at higher buy-ins, there will be plenty of satellites available. Via the PokerStars lobby our Responsible Gaming tools mean you can restrict your tournament buy-in limit and restrict your deposit limit.