This post was written by Lauren Tait, Peak Performance coach, Parkview Sports Medicine.
What is a workout mantra?
A workout mantra is a short phrase that you repeat when you need to get through a tough part or the end of a workout or exercise to keep you motivated to finish. These can range from individualized statements to broad, commonly used phrases. Runners might reach for a mantra in the last leg of their race or a weightlifter could summon a certain phrase in the last push of their PR lift.
Similar to positive affirmations, workout mantras build confidence and motivation. They can help you become more mentally tough by talking your brain through moments of weakness, the same way athletes train their bodies to prevent physical weakness. They go hand in hand during training and competition.
Common workout mantras
There are countless mantras out there, but here are some of my favorites:
- “I am comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
- “I am, I can, I will, I do.” — Christine D’Ercole
- “I have everything I need.”
- “Great things rarely come from sitting in comfort zones.” — Ben Alldis
- “One step at a time.”
- “I can do hard things.” — Jess Sims
How to find a workout mantra that works for you
- Set clear goals and expectations for yourself. What do you want to accomplish? What’s your reason? What motivates you to be the best version of yourself?
- Create a phrase that drives you to get up when you don’t want to, run faster when you feel you can’t and swim another lap when you want to take a break. This should be a phrase that makes you feel proud when you hear it from yourself and others.
- Write it down. Implement this phrase into everything you do. Whether it is training, competition, work or tasks that you just simply don’t feel like doing.
- Repeat it to yourself constantly. This helps build up confidence in yourself and promotes healthy self-talk. You will be surprised with the drive it creates in you to do the best you can in everything you do.
Learn more about Parkview Sports Medicine services here.
