CrossFit is one of the hardest and most challenging workout programs you can do. To train and compete at some of the highest levels, it is an absolute requirement to become more mentally tough in CrossFit. Why? Because when every person you are competing against is just as strong, fit, and has as much skill as you, the small differences are going to lie in mentality. How do you handle setbacks? How do you tackle a workout that contains more of your weaknesses than strengths? How do you look at a leaderboard and use it as fuel instead of draining your tank. What are you doing to mentally prepare between each and every workout and competition? There are SO MANY more questions like this that dictate how mentally tough you are and if you are mentally tough enough to compete with the best. Here are some of the strategies you can use to become more mentally tough in CrossFit.
Develop an excellent driven mindset.
Get accustomed to discomfort and pain.
We have all heard of the “pain cave.” Well, get used to that. The “pain cave” should be better known as the “progress cave.” You want to see what you can truly do, then you have to be eager and willing to push yourself to get there. The best of the best are edged out of competition podiums by MILLISECONDS. So if you want to become a known name, a leader in your sport, an unstoppable CrossFit competitor, then you have to prioritize being limitless in your efforts, attitude, and pursuits.
If you can’t focus on the positive consistency, you will never make it.
Develop a positive mantra, learn what cues you need to stay focused and highlight the positives, reframe your thoughts when you begin to say or feel something negative, control what you can control and develop a plan for how you can continue to fight while keeping your head up and in the competition. You are the only person responsible for creating a positive mindset and becoming confident. Failure is inevitable, negativity is optional. Remember to listen to what you are saying to yourself because ultimately, you are the one listening.
Create effective performance routines.
Routines are the core of your training and competition. If you want to become mentally tough, take the time to develop a mentally tough routine. This includes making sure you have the right routines that set you up to be 100% focused, prepared, and mentally ready to perform. Routines look different for everyone, and yours should be personalized to you. Your performance routines should be thought about at least 1 day prior to competing, Routines create consistency which can create habits. The more you are able to increase productive habits, the less you have to think and the more you can just perform.
Use the CrossFit community to your advantage and develop a system of support and reflection.
CrossFit athletes should never feel like they are an island. The beauty of the sport is that it is so community driven with millions of passionate individuals all supporting the common cause and core of CrossFit. In that community, find your people. These people should be the ones who not only provide unconditional love and support, but also optimal challenges that continue to challenge you and hold your feet to the fire. This community gets it. Find these people and embrace them. Be vulnerable and create a team that you can trust to communicate and reflect with.
There are many other strategies out there to become mentally tough in CrossFit. It all comes down to the unique athlete and a personalized strategies for them. If you ever need additional support and guidance, I am happy to help. I am in the CrossFit community and GET IT. Click below to contact me! Or you can email me [email protected].
