The mental game

Working out is as much physical as it is mental.

I’d actually argue it’s even more mental than physical.

And here’s why, using myself as an example.

I run. I love it. But I didn’t always love it. In fact, I used to gasp for breath, telling my husband and running partner that “I can’t do this.” And it wasn’t because I couldn’t physically handle that run, it was because I mentally wasn’t prepared for the challenge. I didn’t know how to let go and just let my body take over, trusting it to carry me along. Today, I do. I trust in myself, not just physically, but that I’m mentally capable of crossing the finish line of another half marathon, or completing another group fitness certification, or finally learning to swim. I trust. Therefore, it will happen.

I’m a self-professed Core Fusion addict. As you all know, from my Core Fusion Challenge, I struggled the most with changing my mental attitude towards a workout that didn’t leave me breathless like a killer spin class, or drenched like a hot and sweaty summer run. But it was that mental shift that helped me to see and embrace the benefits that Core Fusion has offered me. It’s given me a stronger core, leaner legs and arms and increased flexibility. But mentally? It’s my source of “finding my center” in the midst of chaos – something that will certainly come in handy during SXSW this week in Austin – but it’s also my source of inner strength and quiet confidence. Something that I haven’t found through any other workout.

So what’s the theme in both of these examples? That it took me overcoming mental blocks for me to push myself physically, to challenge myself, mind and body. But it’s those mental blocks that are often the hardest to overcome – especially if you aren’t even sure what kind of workout you might even enjoy. I’m thinking of a beginner, someone who has struggled to get and stay fit. To commit. For them, it might not even be the physical challenge that’s the hardest, but it’s the mental piece that is key. A key that isn’t always so obvious or easy to find and unlock.

Am I making any sense here?

I guess what I’m saying is this: if you’re struggling to commit to living your best life yet, explore the mental side of that workout that scares you/intimidates you/that you’ve been avoiding for a million reasons.

Go for it.

Trust yourself.

Let your body carry you, leading the way.

Once you figure that out, you’ll be golden.