Bill Starr explains how you can use your mind to get the most out of your body in the gym or in any athletic endeavor.
Anyone just starting out on a strength program will make progress if he’s consistent, learns good technique, eats right and gets his needed rest. But once he’s been training for some time and knocking on the door of the high-intermediate or advanced levels, progress comes much more slowly. This is true for the competitive weightlifter as well as those who are strength training to become more proficient in their respective sports. Those who continue to break through barriers are the ones who pay close attention to all aspects of training.
One important aspect of training is mental rehearsal, which can help you become a calm, confident athlete. Many believe the quality of self-assurance is innate. You either have it or you don’t. I don’t agree. While I do believe that some people are more self-confident by nature, I have also seen countless young, under-confident men transform into extremely self-assured athletes. It’s a trait that can be improved over time. It’s very much a skill, and like any other skill, the more it’s practiced correctly, the better you will become at utilizing it in your daily workouts and in the competitive arena.