The Baseball Observer - May/ June 2016
20
Use Personal Key Words
Everyone has a few words that can really serve to help them come back to the zone. Whether it’s something a coach said that stuck with you, lyrics from a song, or a CT Fletcher quote, try to make a list of two or three before you need them.
One that always got me riled up was “Here comes the Boom!” from the POD song of the same name. Did I just date myself? Maybe a little.
#3 Physical Arousal
This technique adds in a physical
element to some of the mental
ones discussed above. To make
these doubly effective, combine
these physical elements with
positive self-talk.
Intense Breathing
Slow and steady breathing can
calm you down and bring someone
back from the edge of a panic attack. But right before I do a 20 rep front squat death set, it’s clear that I don’t want to be calm.
During times like these, do the opposite. Take a deep breath into your lower lungs, trying to expand your stomach as much as possible. Then exhale forcefully. Repeat three times.
Power Movements
If you want to jack yourself up and turn your central nervous system into fight or flight mode, well hopefully just fight mode, do a few power movements.
Slap your thighs, drive your fist into your empty hand, drop down and do three clapping pushups, or do a few tuck jumps as high as you can. This will wake up your sympathetic nervous system and prepare your body and brain for whatever lies ahead.
Here’s To No More Sluggish Workouts
Just because you drag yourself into the gym after a tough day at work doesn’t mean you need to throw in the towel on the workout. As you warm up, visualize the exercises you’re about to do, and see yourself squeezing the muscles hard and getting stronger as the workout progresses.
Turn on some rowdy music, and remind yourself that you’re a wolf, not a sheep, and you’re capable of anything. Amp yourself up with some intense breathing and power movements before jumping into your main exercise for the day, and don’t forget that your brain believes what you say out loud, so only speak to yourself and others in a positive uplifting way.
If you find these techniques to be helpful on the day when you’re feeling just so-so, you’ll be amazed at what a difference they can make on a day you’re feeling unstoppable.
Remember, true strength isn’t just physical. Make the brain your servant, and realize your potential.