Triathlon is uniquely designed to test mental toughness. As athletes, we endure the physical demands of training. We push our bodies to the limits, achieve milestones, rehab through injuries, set new goals, and repeat. But focus rarely centers of the mental side of the sport.
• The pressure of competition
• Meeting expectations
• Overcoming perfectionism
• Managing stress
• Fear of failure
• Dealing with disappointment
“I believe that determination, commitment, and mental toughness are the key ingredients that make a champion. In order to have the best mental game, you must be committed to your goals, engaged, composed, and confident.”
Mental toughness is a quality that some of the best athletes in the world have in spades, but that’s only because they work on it. A lot. Also, an athlete can be mentally tough, but still struggle with day-to-day anxiety, fears, and stress. That just means you’re human.
How can you work on mental toughness?
• By managing training and race day emotions with composure and perspective
• Having healthy communication with your coach regarding short and long-term goals
• Avoiding the urge to become a people pleaser
• Blocking out distractions and toxic people
• Creating a race day strategy for focus and relaxation
• Recalling past workouts or performances where you felt strong and in control
• Staying calm when encountering obstacles
What roadblocks do you struggle with when it comes to mental toughness?
