Fit Tip- Train Your Mind

[Nick Clark]

Training your mind is just as important as physically training your body. Some will argue that it is actually more important because without a positive mental outlook the physical training may be short lived. Mental training should part of your routine on a daily basis.


Below are two techniques that will sharpen your mental game:

Self-Talk- The way you talk to yourself will have a direct reflection on your performance. The question is- is it negative or positive? Develop a few key words or phrases that will trigger you to maintain focus and stay positive. For example, during a run workout you may say to yourself, “stay tall,” to focus on your form rather than saying, “my legs hurt,” which will have a negative impact on your workout. Or you may say, “Finish Strong,” this will help with possible fatigue at the end of a strenuous workout.

Positive self-talk will also help limit the negative thoughts and images that pop into your head. Develop your own positive words and phrases to help you through the tough phases of your workout. Never allow the negative emotions to take control.


Positive examples:

Stay strong
Get it
Use it or lose it
I feel great
Stay tall
Finish strong
Payoff
Smile
I can do this


Negative examples:
I can’t
My legs hurt
This is tough
I am exhausted
Why am I doing this?
It is so hard

Positive Imagery- Develop positive images of yourself prior to performance. For example, if you are training for an event, visualize yourself excelling and performing at a high level. Essentially you are preparing and setting yourself up for success.

Go ahead and try it. Picture yourself finishing a triathlon, performing twenty push ups, running three miles or whatever your goal may be. Feels great doesn’t it? Positive images are a powerful thing. You have to see it, to believe it!

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[Susie Anderson]

Awesome plan Nick, things I realize but do not practice nearly enough. You've inspired me to make it a daily requirement, as I'm nearing a birthday, it's a great thing to add to my life!