NAVIGATING CROSSFIT/FITNESS COMPETITIONS: MANAGING EXPECTATIONS AND EMOTIONS
Let’s face it embarking on a CrossFit competition is more than just a physical challenge; it's a mental and emotional rollercoaster that tests your limits and pushes you to discover your maximum potential. It only makes sense that managing expectations and emotions becomes crucial for a fulfilling experience. With the CrossFit Games just freshly behind us and a slew of local competitions yet to come for WA it has me reflecting on the mindset of Elite CrossFit athletes and how best to approach competitions mentally.
The Power of Self-Reflection
CrossFit competitions often reveal the chinks in our armor, showcasing weaknesses we may not have been aware of or even deliberately ignored. Instead of fearing these revelations, use them as powerful tools for self-reflection and improvement. Recognising your limitations isn't a sign of weakness; it's a stepping stone to growth. Embrace the areas where you can improve, and let them fuel your motivation to work harder and smarter.
Your Effort, Your Control
In the world of CrossFit, you quickly realise that you can't control the performances of others. There is nothing worse than stumbling over the finish line because you were too worried about the person next to you. Everyone brings their unique strengths and weaknesses to the competition floor. The sooner you accept this reality, the more liberated you'll feel. Shift your focus from external factors to your internal effort. Your only responsibility is to give your absolute best – 100% of your effort, every time. By concentrating on your own performance, you take charge of your journey and find satisfaction in the progress you make.
The Unpredictable Nature of CrossFit
CrossFit is inherently unpredictable, demanding adaptability and resilience. No matter how meticulously you plan, unexpected challenges will arise. Understanding that the only constant in a competition is change will prepare you mentally. Embrace the unknown, stay flexible in your approach, and be ready to pivot when necessary. This adaptability will not only improve your performance but also foster mental toughness.
Celebrate Small Victories
In the intensity of a CrossFit competition, it's easy to focus solely on the grand outcome. However, it's essential to recognise and celebrate the small victories along the way. Whether it's achieving a personal best in a particular movement or conquering a mental barrier, these victories are the building blocks of your progress. By acknowledging them, you stay motivated and cultivate a positive mindset, turning each competition into a stepping stone toward your long-term goals. Regular/Yearly competitions like the CrossFit Open offer a great opportunity to compare your current results to your previous year’s results to help show your improvement.
The Role of Emotions in CrossFit
CrossFit competitions are emotionally charged events, and it's natural to feel a range of sentiments – excitement, nervousness, disappointment, and pride. Learn to harness these emotions to your advantage. Use excitement as a source of energy, nerves as a signal that you care deeply about your performance, disappointment as a motivator for improvement, and pride as a recognition of your hard work. Embracing your emotions allows you to navigate the highs and lows, transforming them into powerful tools for personal growth.
Competition as a Tool for Motivation
CrossFit competitions act as a mirror, reflecting both your strengths and areas for improvement. Rather than viewing competition as a threat, see it as a motivational tool. The camaraderie, the electric atmosphere, and the shared dedication of fellow athletes can inspire you to reach new heights. Use the competition setting to draw motivation, push beyond your comfort zone, and continuously evolve as an athlete.
*We aren’t saying to enter every competition you can, but the odd competition here and there is enough to keep you moving in the right direction. Think of it as a constant cycle of “I train to compete & I compete to know what to train”.
In the end, a CrossFit competition is not just about winning or losing; it's a transformative journey that teaches you about your strengths, weaknesses, and, most importantly, your resilience. Managing expectations and emotions allows you to extract the maximum benefit from each experience. As you embrace the uncontrollable nature of CrossFit, focus on your effort, celebrate small victories, and harness your emotions, you'll find that every competition becomes a valuable chapter in your ongoing story of self-discovery and growth.
Don’t Wait - Start your journey with us today!
Here at the MVMT Hub, we understand that starting your CrossFit journey be daunting and challenging, but with the right mindset and our guidance, it can also be incredibly fun and rewarding. We will help you focus on building a strong foundation, listen to your body, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment as you progress through your fitness goals. Starting your CrossFit journey at Mvmt Hub/CrossFit R.A.D. means embarking on a path to better health and fitness with a supportive community and expert guidance. Remember, every journey starts with a single step. We’re here to take that step with you.
Ready to dive into the world of CrossFit? Visit Mvmt Hub home of CrossFit R.A.D., your go-to CrossFit gym, or contact us to schedule your first class. Your fitness journey awaits!