Wine Country CrossFit

Have you hit a mental block on your snatch? What if I told you about an exercise that could help you hurdle that block without lifting a finger, that you can do it anywhere and anytime of the day. Would you believe me?

As you have experienced, the snatch is the most technical and fluid lifts we do in CrossFit. Not only is it physically challenging, but it’s mentally challenging as well.

We often hear “sports and athletic performance is 90% mental.” I use that phrase and agree with it whole heartedly. When I came across positive visualization in the book With Winning In Mind by Lanny Bassham I was a little skeptical. But when I applied it to weightlifting, specifically the snatch, I was surprised how much better I lifted. I was also surprised how easy it was to practice positive visualization when preparing for a lifting session.

When I began the next session every lift went just as I visualized. I felt so good  I even decided to go for a 1 rep max that I had not been able to surpass in a year. I failed my first attempt. I then sat down and visualized myself making the lift. I saw each part of the movement,  from the first lift off the ground, to the second and third pull, to dropping down fast, punching the barbell as hard as possible with eyes up. I saw myself settle in the hole, stabilize and stand.  I practiced the visualization three times. I then walked straight up to the barbell and boom, I made my lift! Just as I envisioned!

You can use positive visualization for any goal and in all areas of your life. Here is a detailed break down of how you can do positive visualization successfully.

I’m excited to see those snatch PR’s in the weeks to come!

-Coach Alyx Gardner