Keep a Positive Mindset with Parkinson’s Disease: Actively search for things you like about your chosen activity-write it down

Menu: Tools to Maintain a Consistent Exercise Program

(Lesson learned as an endurance athlete from my USAFA teammate Semma Burba)

My friend Semma is an incredible athlete and competes and coaches in the highest levels of Cross Fit. Several years ago she was taking a course in coaching mental toughness and she needed a guinea pig. I volunteered.

The most helpful tool that I remember and that I still use is to make lists of all the things that you can think of that you like about each form of exercise that challenges you, and try to continue to add things to it.

I keep running lists in the notes section of my phone for swimming, biking, running and racing.

For each activity list as many things that you can think of that you like about that activity and if some of them are completely silly, that is great too. For example for swimming.

Swimming

Feeling the water go under my swim cap when I first get in the water

Feeling the strength of my legs when I push off the wall

Feeling the smooth glide through the water when I find the correct body position

Feeling a little unsteady on my feet when I first get out of the water and knowing I worked hard

The hot shower afterwards

The feeling of accomplishment walking out the gym feeling refreshed and energized

Smelling a little of chlorine later in the day and feeling good that I got in an early workout even if it does make me smell funny

Etc, etc….

When a negative thought pops in your head, set it aside and focus your thoughts on something on the list to help keep your mind in a positive place. Negative thoughts alone can cannonball what otherwise would have been a good workout, and positive thoughts can help you get you to a place where you can learn to enjoy pushing yourself hard and being uncomfortable and making it something that you look forward to.

Next: Finish every workout in a positive way

Menu: Tools to Maintain a Consistent Exercise Program

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