In a recent issue of Runner’s World magazine, an article titled “Transcendental Steps, Or How I Learned To Love Running Without an iPod” reveals one runner’s journey learning to truly enjoy running, while maximizing her performance through meditation. The author attended a meditative running workshop, where she learned to apply meditation to her running. By keeping her focus in the present moment and her awareness on her breath, she was able to train her mind and body to work together more efficiently to improve her running. A meditation practice can help improve focus through mind-body awareness, which will benefit performance in any sport.The goal of meditation is to remain completely present and engaged in the moment. “Transcendental Steps” explores the parallels between meditation and running, stating that “both require discipline and consistency—just as you need a good base to run a marathon, you need a regular meditation practice to begin to feel its benefits.” A regular meditation practice can give an athlete the ability to clear the mind so that it can focus solely on the task at hand, whether that be running, mountain biking or weight lifting.
Yoga is a classic example of integrating meditation with physical activity, and a great place to start practicing the art of staying present in the moment. The word Yoga came from the Sanskrit word Yuj which means to unite or integrate. The central focus in Yoga is to unite the mind and body by staying completely present and aware of the movements and sensations of the class. The practice of meditation and mind-body awareness makes Yoga a resource that athletes and gym-goers of all fitness levels can benefit from. The DAC is currently offering a Fitness Yoga class in Studio A, on Fridays at 12:10pm.
Athletes often forget about the power that the mind has over the way the body functions. Meditation can be used as a powerful training tool, as conditioning the mind to work with the body will enhance athletic performance. The ability to completely focus the mind on a workout can help avoid nagging thoughts about to-do lists, feelings of stress and fatigue and anxieties about physical appearance and performance. Freedom from these distracting thoughts gives the mind more opportunity to efficiently work with the body and will ultimately lead to a greater appreciation and enjoyment of exercise.
To slowly incorporate meditative practices into a training program, try doing deep breathing exercises during your usual pre-workout warm-up. Begin by bringing your focus to your breath, trying to slow your inhales and exhales into a controlled rhythm. Then connect your warm-up exercises to the rhythm of your breath, moving through each exercise according to the length of your inhales and exhales. Bring your awareness to the sensations of each movement, calmly setting aside distracting thoughts about anything other than the present moment. Notice how your body feels as your move it through your various warm-up exercises. As you move into your workout, try to keep your thoughts in the present and avoid letting your mind wander. For more tips on incorporating meditation techniques into your workout contact Brennan at brennankphelan@gmail.com.
