Training the Mind:The Key to success in the Iron Game

[Zenos]

After reading,nay studying "Dinosaur Training:Lost Secrets of Strength and Development" by Powerlifter Brooks D.Kubik the chapters on the mental aspects of training and also having people around me popping off negative dishearting stuff about my training when i first started has drilled into my mind the fact that the KEY to success in training is the MIND,without a focused mind guiding you and you're training ,all the sups,food ,training and even super genetics is useless.

I went beyond just the mental training methods found in Dinosaur Training to include the following as well:

Will & Nerve Force in Relation to Physical Culture by Thomas Inch

http://www.sandowplus.co.uk/Competition/Inch/Will&Nerve/will-nerve.htm

and the methods of ALOIS P. SWOBODA

http://www.sandowplus.co.uk/Competition/Swoboda/swoboda.htm

[Castle of Glass]

well, i have known that the success at anything physical starts with a strong mind. i learned that first from my first basketball coach. because of that, if i take on a new sport, like i recently started wrestling, i first get into a mindset so that i become a "if i get knocked down, i get back up and try again". i will also study what ever it is i am trying, like watching high school wrestling videos on youtube and observe their moves and stuff. i have a muscular body, but i am quite weak. the only reason i can beat some of the varsity guys is because of my determination and mindset.

so keep training your mind more than your body, it will help you.

[TigerBoy]

Yes, quite agree: I've said as much to you before when we've debated different programs, persistence and dedication to ANY training routine is the key. Use whatever works for you but stick with it.

Mental preparation when you are resistance training is really important - you need to stop and think about what you are doing so you lift well, and to psych yourself up so you push yourself. When I'm doing an aerobic workout I know I'll do much better (go longer) if I take my mind off what I'm doing (eg watching the tvs or listening to music, or thinking about stuff), or I can work harder if I set myself a target of calories in a certain time or something.

Spending money on all the well marketed books and gadgets out there is no substitute for self-discipline and dedication to well established basic training techniques (which you can pull off the internet for free).

[Apollo.]

Totally agree with this. Motivation is a huge part of any training. I love the article "The Iron" by Henry Rollins to me it emphasises the link between a strong mind and a strong body here's a link to it for anyone that wants to have a look at it. > http://www.oldtimestrongman.com/strength-articles/iron-henry-rollins

I know for a fact I would not be where I am now in my training without the motivation and mindset to train consistently and not listen to the guys that say it can't be done.

[TigerBoy]

Totally agree with this. Motivation is a huge part of any training. I love the article "The Iron" by Henry Rollins to me it emphasises the link between a strong mind and a strong body here's a link to it for anyone that wants to have a look at it. > http://www.oldtimestrongman.com/strength-articles/iron-henry-rollins

I know for a fact I would not be where I am now in my training without the motivation and mindset to train consistently and not listen to the guys that say it can't be done.

Great article Nick. I loved what he said about 'real strength' being about your character not your body, and how the best thing 'the iron' can do for you is not come off the floor sometimes. That challenge is so important mentally: I never understand how some guys play computer games on God mode and all that cheating shit - where the hell is the fun / point in that?

[FergusDunn]

with anything you need to focus and believe you can - maybe not today or the next but you can and you will.

I like my sports and do a lot of gym and swim - I love horse riding and yes the first time you go for big jumps it can be difficult but you just stay focused nd draw strength.

[Zenos]

Just don't talk about the importanc eof the midn in successful trraining to people who "claim" they have reached their " genetic potential":yawn: they become real douchebags saying you are qouting psuedo science.