6 Steps to Focus the Mind for Peak Muscle Mass Building
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jim_Whiteside]Jim Whiteside

We all know that to get results in any discipline we need to focus the mind. But how many of us actually use our mind in the quest for muscle mass? Scientific research has proven that effective use of our mind improves fitness strength training results. It's that simple! So if science has proven that techniques such as visualization and goal setting are guaranteed to work, shouldn't you be using your mind to gain muscle mass? This article will take you through six simple steps to focus your mind for peak performance and help you get the gains you deserve.

Develop and focus on you goals. All strength trainers must have clear, written and achievable goals. These should be develop before the design of any strength training program to ensure the mind is ready for success. Goals can be performance based, for example to achieve a 300 lbs one rep bench press by 31 December 2011. Goals can also be desired based, for example to weigh 200 lbs with 10% body fat by 30 June 2011. Once you set and place your order by writing your goal down, you will find it easier to motivate yourself to train as you now have a clear focus. The momentum of having a goal out in front of you will drive you closer to success each day.

Maintain a consistent approach. The big guys in the gym are the ones who design a tough training program and then stick to it without change. Consistency is one of the foundation principles to physical improvement and a written program is the easiest way to ensure you don't get distracted from your goals.

Willing to work outside your comfort zone. While consistency as mentioned above is important, success doesn't come from simply performing the same training routine day in day out. A periodized cycle must be included in every program with routines and exercises changing every 4 - 6 weeks. This will ensure your body doesn't plateau; which is a common performance barrier for the strength training athlete.

A will to delay success. All successful athletes have patience as they understand the importance of a long term training plan and the results it will bring. They are willing to wait. The long slow road to success is easier and proven to have greater results for a longer period of time. Do you think every quick fad, get results in 7 days program really works? We all know the answer to that although many people have been sold by unscrupulous marketers promising quick success.

Take full personal accountability for your actions and results. Do not blame other people for any failures that occur in your training program. You should work with a good sense of understanding that you are totally responsible for your results. These results are based on your actions and no one else's. Conversely, you should celebrate when you achieve a goal, a personal best or any other milestone because again your actions are what produced these results.

Use visualization and mental rehearsal. See success before it happens. Olympic athletes are well known for using visualization to rehearse and practice for their events. They will often complete a full routine in their mind, successfully of course, prior to training or an event. The mind doesn't know the difference between a mental rehearsal and a physical one. Include positive self-talk and encouragement during your visualization, training and competitive event.

In conclusion, this has been a small introduction to some of the key areas where you can focus on improving your physical performance through developing the power of the mind. I have found these simple steps are often overlooked in strength athletes and are a common barrier to success. Of course, you still need to put in the hard physical component of you fitness strength training program to achieve your goals, however you won't achieve those goals if you haven't determined them in the first place! To learn more about an effective and efficient strength training program visit   rel=nofollow [http://fitness-strength-training.com]Fitness Strength Training.

Jim is a former Elite Special Forces soldier with over 20 years of experience. After years of research and training his fellow warriors and athletes in how to achieve elite levels of fitness, he has decided to release these training secrets to the public. You can visit Jim at [http://www.fitness-strength-training.com]Fitness Strength Training today to download your copy of his amazing program.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?6-Steps-to-Focus-the-Mind-for-Peak-Muscle-Mass-Building&id=5949821] 6 Steps to Focus the Mind for Peak Muscle Mass Building