Visualization for Bodybuilding and Fitness
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 shoot 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.
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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. |
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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 sometimes 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!
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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 doesn’t cost a dime and will
yield the results like you never thought possible.
God Bless
Troy "Awwsum" Pearsall
Christian Bodybuilding
