How to peak performance when it really matters

When the moment arrives to realise a dream, will you be ready? Will the years of effort pay off? Will you be able to peak your performance, technically, mentally and emotionally? Will you be able to handle the pressure?

For 21 years, Alex Tofalides pursued a dream of fencing at the Olympics, first as part of the British elite programme, then for Cyprus under his own direction. He had become a world and European champion, but had narrowly missed going to London, Rio and Tokyo. Now he was in the final of the European qualifier, one fight away from Paris 2024.

In this book, he shares what it takes to finally realise your dream to perform at the biggest games of all. The psychology. Your narrative. The analysis. The processes. The regime. Your resilience. As he finally overcomes his doubts and limitations, you will learn what it takes to perform in the moment when it all really matters.

AUTHOR

Alex Tofalides is a fencer, speaker and author, who has spent 25 years learning how to achieve peak performance under pressure. He was part of Britain's elite fencing programme for many years, before becoming the first fencer to represent Cyprus at the Olympics in Paris 2024. After the experience of becoming his own coach, he now gives regular presentations on resilience, strategy and performance in English, Greek, Arabic, Spanish and French. He remains in training for LA 2028.

COMMENTS

'Alex's story is proof that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter how long they take or how many obstacles lie in the way. I hope his words inspire you, as they have inspired me, to think strategically, to believe fiercely and, above all, to never give up.'

Theo Paphitis, retail magnate and former Dragons' Den panellist

'Over time, Alex built an approach grounded in courage, honesty and a determination to keep learning ... Fighting for Your Dream captures that journey brilliantly and I'd recommend it to athletes, coaches and anyone striving to perform at their best.'

Katie Warriner, performance psychologist to winners of Olympic gold with Team GB

'Alex distils the hard-won lessons of his 20 year quest to become Cyprus's first Olympic fencer into principles that resonate deeply with me as an investor and leader. This book is a compelling reminder that performance under pressure is both an art and a discipline.'

Babatunde Soyoye, co-founder and managing partner, Helios Investment Partners

'Alex takes you on a journey filled with passion, sacrifice and unshakeable belief. This book is a true inspiration for athletes and non-athletes alike.'

Pavlos Kontides, double Olympic medallist in sailing

CONTENTS

(1) Dream it, believe it, achieve it (2) Mastering the mind (3) When it goes against you (4) Choose your battle (5) Upsets and underdogs (6) Team dynamics (7) Fighting back (8) Taking responsibility (9) Mental preparation (10) Process and routine (11) Psychologically aware (12) Data analysis (13) Training and sparring (14) Negative thoughts (15) Narrative building (16) Competing with the best (17) Holistic effort (18) Luxembourg (19) Paris 2024