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It’s been a few years since I step on a bodybuilding stage (15years)
but one of the tools I used for success in competition was
visualization. Most bodybuilders don’t apply this technique to their
training but it really makes a difference in not just your confidence
but also you physical performance.
We have all heard how Michael Jordan used to imagine himself making the
game winning shot every night and I think it goes without saying that
many teams tried to keep the ball away from Michael Jordan because of
it. His visualizing making that shot was only a mental formality that
his body had to play out. The shot became very easy because he made it
again and again and again in his mind. So there were no problems with
him making it again with the ball.
Pre-workout Visualization There are a number of visualization
techniques that can be used in bodybuilding and fitness. The first is
what I call pre-workout visualization. In this technique I actually see
myself doing my sets each one individually, rep by rep. I know how many
reps I would like to compete for each set, then visualize myself doing
that number of reps with a slightly heavier than normal weight than I
would have before.
When it comes time to actually do that set with the given reps and
weight, I have already done it in my mind and amazingly can most of the
time complete it in the physical. Now this is not some mystic mumble
jumble it works because you mind is already prepared for the task at
hand!
Contest Visualization When preparing for a contest I use a slightly
different method of visualization, I’ve found this to be exceptionally
effective in preparing for a contest, especially in respect getting out
the pre contest jitters
I visualize my body in comparison with other competitors, me actually
receiving the first place trophy, and even my diet and other training
events, but I always visualize myself as the greater than I already am.
I visualize my diet for that week I even visualize myself turning down
bad food choices from family and friends, and only accepting the
healthy muscle building selection.
If you know where the competition is go there and look at the event
area and imagine the lights the crowds, all cheering for you. Make the
atmosphere as positive for you as possible, then go home and visualize
the competition as you would like it to be, and don’t be afraid to
embellish a little.
If you can’t get to event because of distance than get pictures of it
off the internet and use those picture to form you imagination.
The last thing to do is get to the event center early while they are
setting up for the show ask which trophies are for the class you are
competing in and visualize yourself receiving the trophy again
I sometime actually talk to the trophy, telling it that its coming home
with me, and telling it how honored that I am to be competing for such
a great trophy.
This may sound crazy and you will seem some what cocky around others
but you will live up to your own expectations and greater than you can
ever expect from yourself.
Visualize every day and whenever you feel down or fat of unmotivated or
just plain tired visualize your success and you will get it!
The Process of Visualization Before you visualize you must be quiet!
Now this is not the absence of noise but the calming of your mind and
spirit. This is very similar to mediation or praying in the presence of
God, so don’t be shocked it you find a new desire to re-unite with God.
Or if you are already a practicing Christian you may find yourself
understanding the wisdom of God at a more personal level.
Take a deep breath and hold it until you can hold it no longer but when
you release it do is smoothly and controlled, breath normally. I know
many people that are into the breath counting but I find this relaxes
me much faster than breath counting, or emptying the mind or any of
that Zen Buddha stuff.
I would look at a photo of the event center first this put thing into
real perspective. Then I close my eyes and visualize what I want to
happened during the contest. The more detailed you visualize the better
the chances are you will experience the success you desire
Go through the pre-judging, comparison, evening show, your posing
routine and even the crowds standing ovations after your routine. Leave
nothing to chance and do visualize often once a day at lease maybe more
if you need to.
With the introduction of every imaginable new drug and supplement in
the sports of bodybuilding and fitness, I think the use of
visualization is an amazing simple process that does not cost a dime
and will yield the results like you never thought possible.
God Bless Troy "Awwsum" Pearsall
About The Author:
Troy Pearsall is the owner of: Fire Iron Magazine
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