CrossFit Oakland

deadlifts, thrusters, strength = I get angry, perhaps a few of you have heard me say nasty silly things?

the 800m runs tomorrow = peaceful and relaxed, content. Reason I like to go on runs outside of CF is that it's so relaxing, especially here in the East Bay!

The right mental frame of mind is critical to success.

In general for athletic performance, I think there is nothing more clutch than visualization, but the kind of visualization, and the amount of time and when you do the visualization is all dependent upon what you're actually trying to accomplish. I started doing it before rugby matches in college when I was having trouble with some skills aspects of matches, things like dropping balls, receiving kick offs, or running set plays. Going through it in your mind ahead of time the night before works wonders. For me, actually picturing myself in detail doing something, in a weird way gives me the confidence that I can do it. I also think visualization is applicable to things like one rep maxes, you just don't have to spend the night before going over it in your head before you go to sleep. For things like the Total, or even going for max # of pullups or something of the like, I just get quiet right before and picture myself doing it, and it works...Ta-Da! In terms of dissociation and athletic performance, I agree that it works wonders in longer, very repetative athletic events, like running, longer distance rows, ect. where you dont actually need to think very much about what you're body is doing and youre just going on automatic.

I almost forgot....way to go Tami!

As an athlete there were times when I reached a metaphysical state also called a "zone". During these times a 90 mph baseball appeared to be moving in slow motion, and a well synchronized golf swing would lead to sub par rounds. The competitive edge of crossfit helps push me to the next level. Somehow yelling and cussing gets me through the endurance workouts and the rest is just maintaining focus.

When I am focused on crushing the workout I will, like Patrick, use visualization to prepare. The more detail the better. Seeing myself perform the movement, feeling the increased respirations, recruiting levels of discomfort and how far I am willing to take it. Even counting out while visualizing the movement. My approach seems a stark opposite of the technique employed by the monks. I thrive on being present with the whole process we experience in intense work outs ie Fran, Linda, Murph, Helen and all our favorites.

Also, I focus on not 'weight gazing.' When i really need a break I step back, take 5 deep breaths then get right back to the bar before I think i am ready.

Fran is one of the most awful workouts in CrossFit. It also happens to be one of my favorites. Not only is it really difficult while you are doing it, the aftermath is, in some ways, more unpleasant. I visualize myself trying not to throw up for 10 to 15 minutes after I complete Fran.

Most impressive on the bench, Tamara.

Ive used visualization with success for quite a few things.I'm definitely a believer.Years ago I trained at a Brazilian Jujitsu School in San Francisco.The instructor taught us this sweep that was fairly complex.After that class I couldn't train for almost 2 years(low on dough and time).Over those 2 years i just kept visualizing the sweep.Not everyday but like maybe a few times a week I'd just leisurely picture it.2 years later I start training again and its my best technique now.
As far as crossfit,the only "mental" thing ive used is to just assume some things are easy.When lifting heavy I just assume it will be easy and that the worst that will happen is that I cant lift it.I think alot of times people talk themselves OUT of being able to do things by running images of failure through their heads prior to doing something.

Good job Tamara!

there might be something in the differences between a crossfit workout and long distance running. if you remove yourself mentally like the monks did, it works for long distance running because it's repetative and does not require as much focus as say, a clean and jerk, or something. visualizing yourself completing a lift successfully is essential to actually doing it, in my opinion. every time I go for a heavy lift, I always imagine myself doing it first, then I psych myself up by kicking the bar and telling myself it's easy over and over.

Daniel and Tami,

Nice Fran times.

Huh? I don't know what the heck ya'll are talking bout, I just try to actually complete the freaking workout man!
Major props on your bench Tamara, you go girl.
Mike-your arms look ripped, you been working out?

I thought I was the only one who noticed Mike's sexy arms and legs! As for you Connie, smoke some weed and you will feel what it's like to be in the zone :)

Girl, i live in the zone...

It's amazing what air-brushing will do.