In the digital age, esports has emerged as a phenomenon, creating a unique lifestyle for gamers worldwide. This lifestyle, often misunderstood, is a blend of intense training, strategic thinking, and a passion for gaming. But what does it really entail?
This article peels back the curtain on the world of esports gamers. It’s not just about the thrill of competition, but also the discipline, dedication, and unique challenges these athletes face. From their training routines to their diet, social life, and the mental resilience required, we’ll delve into the unseen side of this rapidly growing industry.
Esports Gamers Lifestyle
Get ready for a deep dive into the day-to-day life of an esports gamer. This section elucidates the nuances of their unique lifestyle, governed by rigorous schedules and a distinct culture.
The Rise of Esports Gamers
Let’s start with the ascent of esports gamers. Data from esports viewership statistics reveal a steady increase over the years, implying a corresponding surge in professional and amateur gamers. For instance, esports spectators grew from 335 million in 2017 to an estimated 495 million in 2020. Likewise, the number of gamers has increased exponentially, from niche communities to mainstream recognition. This rise isn’t attributed solely to the allure of gaming, but also the distinctive lifestyle and opportunities esports offers players.
Inside the Gamers’ Domain
Shifting focus to the gamers’ domain, they have carved a distinctive niche for themselves. A typical day in their life resonates an athlete’s routine. They have scheduled training hours, involving rigorous practice sessions with their team or solo digital drills. Most gamers invest 10 to 12 hours daily, honing their skills and learning new strategies.
Beyond gaming, they prioritize physical fitness, knowing it impacts their gaming prowess. Therefore, structured exercise routines, often facilitated by personal trainers, punctuate their daily schedules. Mental resilience is another key factor, prompting many to partake in stress management exercises and periodically consult mental health professionals. Additionally, gamers adopt a tailored diet plan, understanding its impact on their stamina and focus.
Esports Gaming as a Profession
Recognizing esports as a profession beckons a deep understanding of what goes into shaping a gamer. A player’s life involves more than holding a controller, with a meticulous blend of training, health, and fitness priorities playing a significant role.
Training and Preparation
Dispel the myth, esports professionals don’t simply play games all day. Their preparation scheme mirrors traditional sportsmen and includes hours of strategic planning, reviewing game strategies and rigorous practice sessions. For example, in games like DOTA 2 and League of Legends, players thoroughly study game mechanics, constantly analyzing movements, and planning strategies. They also utilize replay analysis tools to evaluate their previous games, learn from their mistakes and improve their gameplay. Furthermore, esports teams often spend time learning to communicate effectively, enhancing their team coordination, crucial in highly competitive games.
Maintaining a regular practice schedule remains paramount, with professionals often dedicating over 10 hours a day to hone their skills. Some esports organizations provide dedicated training facilities, fostering an environment germane to professional development. Using such facilities, a player can improve his skills, learn from his peers and gain insights from veteran coaches.
Health and Fitness Priorities
Contrary to misconceptions over gamer stereotype, esports professionals understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Mental and physical health sit atop their priorities, impacting not only their gameplay but their overall lifestyle. Physical strength contributes to improved reflexes, while mental stamina aids focus and decision-making during intensive sessions.
Many pro-gamers hit the gym regularly, commit to diet plans and ensure adequate sleep for optimal physical health. For instance, esports team Fnatic, maintains a dedicated performance coach to manage the physical training of their athletes. Mental health bolsters resilience and concentration, leading many professionals to employ mindfulness techniques like yoga and meditation. Some teams even employ psychologists to help players manage stress. Regular breaks are also part of their regime to prevent burnout and maintain productivity.