Hello mate.
Normally I would arrive 4 hours before my scheduled time to play. Most the players that are on during that session, are normally there when I arrive - but I dont like to get there too much earlier than that as it can leave you tired etc.
Normally I would go check in with the players marshall and have my shirts vchecked and patched up, then would probably have a cvouple of beers and some food and slowly begin warming up. I wouldn't say I'm constantly on the board for the duration before, but would do a few warm up games and then slowly prepare myself. For the last hour before I am due on I would be in full swing and therefor should be ready to play when get called on.
Thanks