Bodybuilding and the Mind

Weight training involves the mind as much as physical strength. Some people seem to think that bodybuilding is all about brute strength, well it just is not so. Sure you do need to be physically strong but it does not matter how big you are because physical strength does not necessary equate to your size but more so to your well-being and health. There are many examples and studies that have shown that pound for pound, smaller people can lift more than huge people. By using your mind and your mental ability, it will allow you focus and concentrate at the task at hand. You will be surprised how much you can lift and the progress you can eventually make. Using both your mind and your strength in combination and unison, there is no reason why you cannot chest press more than you body weight on a machine or using barbells. If you come in to the gym with a tired and distracted mind or a feeling of laziness, you will accomplish nothing that day or possibly hurt yourself.

Also, proper breathing techniques go hand in hand with focus and concentration. It helps clear your mind of distractions, allow you to focus and concentrate and provide oxygen that your body and muscles need. It’s no different than in Yoga, Pilates, martial arts or any other discipline that involves the mind. Weight training is exactly the same.

To effectively train using weights or for bodybuilding at the amateur or professional levels one must also understand the human body or at least have a basic understanding of it -what and how to train to get the desired size and muscle definition. Also, nutrition plays a vital role in weight training. You need to know what to eat. The right foods provides you with the energy your body needs, the ability of your body to build muscle and the vitamins and minerals your body needs, Most importantly, it helps to keep your immune system strong while working out and as you go about your day-to-day life.

As I have tried to illustrate, when it comes to bodybuilding and weight training, the mind plays an important role.