Yuzuru Hanyu: Preparing for Worlds

Ok, so Yuzu is preparing for Worlds.  We “think” he is working on adding his quad loop to his free program.  Yuzu is fine tuning brilliantly choreographed programs and refining his every move to each beat of the music.  He is preparing mentally with image training and also rehearsing mentally for all scenarios, like Brian used to do in his prep when he competed.  Yuzu and his team are anticipating all possible start positions in his skating group and making the necessary adjustments for each scenario.  Whether he skates first in his group or last, every minute of warm up is accounted for, and planned to perfection.  He is preparing physically with program run-throughs on the ice, and also doing extra training off the ice with additional workouts (conditioning/strength training etc).

I’m preparing for Worlds too!   While I am not practising everyday like Yuzu, my preparation is just as concentrated as his!  (just kidding of course!)

What am I doing?

I am checking the Worlds practice schedule, and event schedule constantly in case of changes, and planning my time in Boston appropriately.

I am packing and re-packing my suitcase with warm clothes because I have no idea what Boston in March will be like, although I will be spending on average 14 hours a day inside the arena.  I have my special Yuzu blanket ready to stay snuggly warm!!

I am making sure I am “security friendly” so I don’t set off the metal detectors when I go through the doors at the arena.   This is standard for all NHL arenas so I’m pretty used to this security check.  I do not want to get the pat down by the security guards who check our bags after we walk through the metal detectors.  I will not be carrying any large bags as this will bring attention to myself and cause delays.

I am double checking to make sure I have all of the event tickets and something to protect my practice pass since the one pass has to last all week.

I am checking out tv schedules in advance to set my PVR to record Worlds on TV.  This is so that when I get home, I can watch Yuzu’s performances over and over again, this time while breathing.

I am visualizing Yuzu’s performances in my head, every element executed perfectly.  I am even visualizing Yuzu’s practices.  I am willing him to be perfect.

I am making sure I will have a nice basic camera with me that will give me decent pictures since I know the guards will not allow any special professional equipment unless I have media credentials (which I don’t).

I have stopped checking out things to do while in Boston, because really, how much time am I actually going to have outside the arena during waking hours?

I am double and triple checking my airline flight reservations and hotel reservations just to be sure.

I am trying to purchase a Japanese flag to wave when Yuzu is done his performances.  Not the easiest item to find in western Canada, but I’m still working on it.

Yes, Worlds is still over a month away.  How are you preparing??

Go Yuzu Go!  Doki Doki!