How Elite Poker Players Train for the WCOOP's Grueling Marathon

The WCOOP isn't just a test of skill—it's a mental endurance battle. One psychologist's strategies help pros stay sharp through weeks of high-stakes play.

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2026 March 30 . 5:02 PM

2 min read

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How Elite Poker Players Train for the WCOOP's Grueling Marathon

The World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP) at PokerStars stands as one of the most gruelling events of the year for players. High Performance Psychologist Alan Longo, who has spent five years coaching high-stakes poker professionals, highlights the importance of mental and physical preparation for enduring the series' demands. His approach focuses on building routines that sustain performance across weeks of intense competition.

Longo emphasises that success in WCOOP does not hinge on a single standout session but on maintaining high-quality decisions from start to finish. To achieve this, he advises players to clear their 'mental RAM' by resolving financial matters, scheduling appointments, and completing pending tasks before the series begins. This reduces distractions and frees up cognitive space for the tables.

Stable energy levels also play a key role in sustained performance. Planning meals in advance ensures players avoid energy crashes during long sessions. An ergonomic and comfortable setup further minimises physical strain, allowing for better focus over extended hours. Before playing, Longo recommends a 15-20 minute warm-up to sharpen strategic thinking. Light physical activity, such as a short walk or stretching, can boost mood, energy, and concentration. Sleep remains a top priority, directly enhancing decision-making and resilience against the series' natural ups and downs. Longo's work centres on equipping players with tools to strengthen mental foundations and professional routines. His methods aim to foster consistency, helping competitors navigate the challenges of high-stakes online poker.

The WCOOP series tests both skill and endurance over weeks of play. Longo's strategies—ranging from cognitive preparation to physical comfort—are designed to help players perform at their best throughout the entire event. By focusing on routines and mental clarity, competitors can better manage the demands of one of poker's toughest competitions.