Get to the root of the problem
In order to improve your performance at the gym or to get better at any sports, I recommend that you focus on what exactly prevents you from performing 100 %. For example, if you constantly lose the ball whilst playing football, one of the reasons could be that you’re not fast enough. But it could also be because you’re afraid of getting hurt. This fear of injury could lead you to lower the intensity when it comes to tackles. In each case, the same problem needs to be faced from a completely different angle to improve your performance.
Functional training
Functional training is a popular topic that’s often discussed, but in essence, it’s simply doing the exercise routine that allows you to achieve the desired goal. Are you looking to improve your mark in the half marathon? If you do regular spurts at high speed, combined with leg strengthening exercises, you may be able to run faster next time and improve your race time. Can’t climb stairs without getting tired? You may need to start with an easy 10-minute run to improve your aerobic capacity. As you can see, functional training can differ greatly, depending on the situation. But it always helps to achieve a goal.
Do you lack willpower?
In many cases our mental attitude plays an important role in improving our performance. We don’t achieve our goals because we listen to the little voice that tells us that skipping a day at the gym is nothing to worry about. But the problem with that is: once we fall into that trap for the first time, it’s much easier to relapse again. It’s important to realize that that voice is not you. You can easily overcome it by bringing your focus back to your goal. Remind yourself why you started going to the gym in the first place. Put your mind to it and go for it!
Don’t forget the basics
Last but not least: to improve your performance, whatever your situation, you must not forget the basic rules: eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and do regular physical activity. These elements are indispensable for your physical and mental health alike. You can work very hard in training, but if you live under a lot of stress, don't eat well, or don't get enough rest, it will be much more difficult for you to improve your performance.
This blog is written by one of our Personal Trainers, Joyce Mohringer.
