One of the benefits of mental training is developing the ability to do more than you thought you were capable of physically.

If you want to take your mental game to the next level, I highly recommend learning from Courtney Dauwalter. Courtney grew up as a cross country ski athlete and in her 20’s jumped into Ultra-Marathons. She is now one of the best ultra-marathon runners in the world. Her humility, joy, and view of pain are something we could all benefit learning from.

Watch this 7 ½ minute video to learn more about what Courtney refers to as the “Pain Cave.”

JOURNAL ACTIVITY

“It’s just a mindset. It’s all in our heads.”

“Make the Pain Cave bigger, instead of pushing it away.”

“Changing the story line makes it a whole other game.”

“It’s just telling myself a different story.”

First, take some time to reflect and write about what your relationship with pain has been in the past. Has it been a place you’ve avoided or a place you’ve explored? How has your current relationship with pain helped/hurt you?

Next, reflect and write about what your relationship with pain needs to be for you to reach your goals.

NOTE: Mentally tough athletes can quickly differentiate between the pain of training (pushing ourselves to new physical levels) and the pain of injury. No mentally tough athlete should push through injuries that are dangerous for their health.

BONUS VIDEO

Check out this video to learn a little more about Courtney Dauwalter and her mindset. In this video you get to follow along as she completes three iconic 100 mile races in one summer!

INVEST IN YOUR MENTAL GAME

This fall we will be hosting Confidence Camp Mini-Sessions via Zoom. Each of these mini-sessions will be a stand alone session. So you can attend one or attend them all! If you would be interested in investing in the mental side of your game, you can find more info here.