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You might have heard of the term “mind-muscle connection” before, and might have a small idea of what it is. Mind-muscle connection is a simple concept, it refers to being mentally aware of the muscle that a person is trying to work. It involves keeping out the environmental distractions and noises around an individual in order to improve their focus and quality of exercise. That’s not it; further studies have shown that consciously thinking of moving a specific muscle can make it stronger even without actual exercise. A study conducted at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, found that in few sessions, exercises can improve your muscles up to 55% while concentration on flexing certain muscles can improve them up to 14%. So how do you improve your mind-muscle connection? Let’s figure it out.
1. Focus on performing your exercise the right way
The first thing that you learn going to the gym is that there is a proper form to perform all the exercises. Proper forms helps your muscles function competently, and reduces the risk of injuries.
2. Focus on the muscles you want to grow
You are probably wasting energy by tensing the muscles that you are not targeting. For example, in a bicep curl, you might find yourself tightening your neck, which could be an automatic response of your body. However, a tighten neck can take from the energy needed to perform the bicep curl. Focus on the area that you are targeting and try in the same time to relax the areas that are not related to the exercise. Even if this takes time, make sure that you do not give up as with practice you will be able to achieve it.
3. Remember to focus on your breathing
Focusing on the breath can help connect your mind to the body (a concept that yoga practitioner know well). In fact, concentration on the breathing process removes any distractions from your brain and help your body release the tension that could be stopping your mind from working well. You can take some yoga classes to learn better how to deepen the connection between breath, mind and body.
4. Focus on visualization
While practicing is very important, visualization is essential as well. Visualization involves imagining in your head what you will do now. For example, if you are playing baseball, you would visualize delivering a perfect fast ball. According to research, visualization has the ability to strengthen muscles.
5. Focus on being realistic
Make sure that the goals you set are reachable rather than deciding to choosing goals that are harsh and hard to reach such as going to the gym for a full two hours daily. Unreachable goals can make you frustrated and stressed and could lead to giving up sooner than later. Start with small goals and commit at doing them for small amounts of time until you are ready to level up. This will help you be motivated as you will be seeing satisfying results in every step.
2 Comments
EVEREST MOSS
GUILLERMO MANNING