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OTB #057: The 25 for 30 September Challenge

  • Writer: Gareth James
    Gareth James
  • Aug 27, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Man in glasses and cap against yellow background. Text: "OTB #057 THE 25 FOR 30 SEPTEMBER CHALLENGE." Mood is determined.

What would you do if you had to drastically improve your preflop game in the next 30 days?


You might start by putting together a carefully crafted gameplan.


But that would be a waste of time.


Of course, making a plan can be a good thing.


But when you start taking your poker training seriously, planning can get in the way.


What you need, right out of the gate, is to take some action and see some results.


You need an approach that forces you to do some actual training straightaway.


An approach where you can see results, fast.


So today I'm going to introduce The 25 for 30 September Challenge.


Let's dive in...


The 25 for 30 September Challenge


Last week I introduced my 25 for 30 system - a 4-step system for improving your postflop play faster.


The great thing about this system is that you can use the same steps to develop a preflop training habit too.


So starting on 1 September I want to invite you to take part in The 25 for 30 Challenge.


Its all about being consistent with focused training.


Here's how to take part:


Step 1: Create a free account for The Preflop Dojo at preflopdojo.com


Registration form on a dark background with fields for email, username, password, and buttons for agreement and subscription. Orange register button at bottom.


You only need a free account to take part in this challenge.


If you like the tool and want to invest in the Premium version then absolutely do that, but you don't need any more than the free version of the tool that lets you train 25 hands/day in two different scenarios (RFI and vs an Open) and two stack sizes (20bb and 30bb - perfect for MTTs).


Step 2: Choose your spot


Poker strategy chart with colored cells, buttons labeled RFI, vs Open, etc. Options: Fold 58.8%, Raise 36.3%, Jam 5%. Mood is analytical.

If you're using the Entry tier, decide whether you want to train:


  • RFI (Raise first in) or

  • vs Open


And also your stack size:


  • 20bb or

  • 30bb


If you already have a Premium account, you can choose any spot or situation that you like.


Step 3: Drill 25 hands every day for 30 days


Poker simulation interface showing a table with positions, actions, and cards. The player holds 6♥ Q♥ at the BU seat. Options: Fold, Call, Raise, Jam.

Commit to drill 25 hands in the Preflop Dojo every day for the 30 days of September.


It will probably only take 1-2 minutes. Heck, you could get your hands in while brushing your teeth, sitting on the toilet or waiting for your morning coffee to brew.


Step 4: Share your results and learning on social media


Man with a dark hat and glasses posts a chart for Day 1 of #25for30challenge. Chart shows "01/09/2024" with a score of 100%.

Now here's the important part...


If it's not on social media, did it really happen?


Screenshot your results and share them on social media with the hashtag #25for30challenge for accountability.


Make sure to include what day you're on and if you really want bonus points, write a short review of what you learnt.


If you use the right hashtag, I'll come in and give you some kudos and some feedback.


Heck, you can even tag me @gazelligpoker too.


Keys to success


Not everyone who starts the challenge will finish the challenge. Maybe more of you will fail than actually succeed. But that's okay because I can almost guarantee that you will learn something.


Here are some things to keep in mind as you tackle this challenge:


Stay consistent: consistency is key to building healthy habits and routines. You want this training to become a habit that is ingrained in your daily routine.


Don't miss twice: If you miss a day, make sure you don't miss the next day.


Embrace imperfection: you're going to make mistakes and that's ok. Learn from them and share what you discovered with others.


Keep your drills focused and specific: if you have the Premium tier of The Preflop Dojo then you can drill thousands of different situations - don't do this. Choose a specific situation that you know you need to work on and stick with it until you're happy with the results.


Why this challenge works


The 25 for 30 September Challenge does more than just help you learn how to play raise first in off 30bb.


It also:


  • Provides valuable feedback on your game

  • Forces you to build a consistent training habit

  • Pushes you to focus on specific areas of your game that you know need work


Even if you don't complete all 30 days, the lessons you learn will be invaluable.


Need extra help?


If you get stuck, watch this video tutorial I made.


See you on Sunday 1 September for Day 1 of the challenge.

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