PETALING JAYA: Patience is not simply the ability to wait its how we behave and what we do while were waiting.

National pistol shooter Johnathan Wong (pic) is adamant that he knows exactly how and what to do during the movement control order (MCO) imposed to stem the Covid-19 pandemic in Malaysia.

For starters, Olympian Johnathan said he would remain positive and keep himself busy even if the Government decides to extend the lockdown period after May 12.

Given the situation around the world, I have learnt to expect and prepare for the MCO extension, said the 10m air pistol gold medallist at the recent President Ally T.H. Ong Championships.

I have been keeping myself occupied during my time indoors, trying to make full use of the time that I wouldnt have when I am actively training, such as doing house cleaning, catching up with movies and video gaming.

Besides that, self-reflection in this period is the best. With no other distraction and external pressure it is easier to think of ways for self-improvement.

I have been working closely with the sport psychologist from National Sports Institute (NSI) and doing physical workout regularly, making sure that I will be ready when training starts, said Johnathan.

The pandemic has obviously uprooted the 27-year-olds shooters routine as he usually trains for hours at the National Sports Council (NSC) shooting range in Bukit Jalil.

Now he can only train indoors without any shooting done. His only guide is the training programme provided by the NSI.

During this period, Johnathan has also discovered the delights of reading which will help enhance his visualisation and imagination.

Currently Im reading the Lord of the Ring series, and Ive managed to finished two of it. Generally, I prefer fantasy or detective fiction, as it spurs my imagination.

There are some things that are hard to train if you are not at the shooting range. But I have been practising visualisation so that even without being physically at the range, the memory of my technique still stays fresh in my mind.

Coaches would also check on our health from time to time.

With no action for more than a month, Johnathan, who is gunning for an Olympic wildcard spot, said the Covid-19 situation, is a lesson in learning how to adapt to the different aspects of life.

It is best that we lower our expectations now and always be prepared to face the worst. Start from the bottom again, and the results will come.

Read more here:
Patient Wong has no qualms over extending MCO - The Star Online