The rewards involve is indeed important if you want to push thru your participation in any trading competition. Because you need to assess if it is worth your time and resources. Because when you talk about trading volume, aside from the initial funds, you need your skills and time dedicated to this event. Otherwise, don't join half-heartedly as you will only waste your effort on this.
When I participate in a trading contest, I do not take any additional actions other than registration. I just keep trading, as I do every day, except in cases where the terms of the competition require trading certain pairs of coins.