Mental intensity is a spectrum that ranges from no intensity (fast asleep in bed) to full on terror (being chased by an armed psychopath). There is going to be some optimum level of intensity on that spectrum that allows you, SeaCity CrossFit member, to perform your best in the gym.
Too much intensity can negatively impact your performance by causing you to make mistakes, hyperventilate, have anxiety... and that can be paralyzing. Too little intensity will also negatively impact your performance by undermining your motivation. You will be lethargic, lack adrenaline, and be disappointed when you leave the gym.
So how do you learn how to work in the right range of intensity to maximize your performance?
As a coach, I cannot teach you how to be intense.
Mental intensity is learned and in my opinion can only be learned by following the example of others.
Maybe you feel like you are still a beginner and learning the ropes. But take a minute and look around and see how many people there are in the gym that are newer than you. New members will look to others as leaders. Like it or not, if it's not your first day, you are now setting the example.
Part of your responsibility as a CrossFitter is to set the
right example. You don't have to be the strongest or fastest athlete in the gym, you don't have to have your name on the leaderboard, but you DO have to lead by example.
So next time you come to a workout, remember that your actions and words matter: be passionate, work hard, and verbally encourage those around you to be better...
Maybe the gym is just another place that you go during your day, something that you check off of your list... but to me the gym is a sanctuary. When you go in to the gym, go with purpose, go with meaning, go with intention. Go to get stronger physically, but also go to condition an unbreakable spirit.
Leave everything else at the door and for one hour, be the best version of yourself that you can possibly be.
3...2...1...
