Mental Preparation for the 2012 CrossFit Games: Kenneth Leverich
Kenneth Leverich placed second at the Southern California Regionals – he will share his p0int of view on the mental aspects – enjoy the reading!
Kenneth train and Coach at Orange Coast Crossfit and has been an athlete and competitor for about 2.5 years.
What mental skills have been most important to you on your journey qualifying for the Games this year?
1st-To love God above all and to use my abilities to do the lords work in anyway I can. Its easy to forget who gives you the strength to be who you are. So I always thank the Lord for giving me the abilities to do what I do everyday.
2nd- Never doubt or put yourself down. Always believe that you can achieve whatever you put your mind two. But its important to know that the greatest things come at the hardest prices. You most work hard and never for one second think that success is just handed to you.
2nd- Never doubt or put yourself down. Always believe that you can achieve whatever you put your mind two. But its important to know that the greatest things come at the hardest prices. You most work hard and never for one second think that success is just handed to you.
How do you deal with fatigue, pain or negative thoughts during a workout?
I use music alot. I think music is one of the greatest training tools. It always helps me get motivated and focused on my workouts. It also helps set the mood to which i’m trying to achieve. Whether its for a one rep max or gearing towards a long MetCon
How do you prepare for the unknown, in terms of the mental aspects?
To stay confident in myself. For example I have no idea what the games is going to entail. All i know is that I’ve been training hard for it and I am confident that I will be the best person I can. Its good to remember that in every situation and competition that you have nothing to loose and only to gain.
Qualifying for the CrossFit Games is a big deal – so how do you deal with expectations – your own and others?
Just set a goal for myself and hope I reach it. My expectations is to only do the best I can and never any less. As long as I give my best then I have already won.
What is going to be your biggest challenge, in terms of the mental aspects, at this years CrossFit Games?
My biggest challenge mentally is going to be to just keep myself relaxed. Im going to be so fired up threw the whole thing that Im going to need to keep my mental composure. The last thing I need is to have my heart rate threw the roof before I start a Long MetCon.
What advices would you give to fellow CrossFitters, who want to become great performers?
My advice is that no matter where you think you are athletic wise, do as many competitions or events as you can. You learn sooo much from competing and being involved with those who do. Nothing allows you to see your strengths and weaknesses better than a good competition. There you are forced to face the weaknesses you ignore.
Any last comments you want to share?
Just have fun and never take the sport serious to the point it effects you negatively. But most of all DONT FORGET why Crossfit was created. The Community you are involved in is just as important as your involvement, so always take the time to get to know those you train with. Its almost like a life group, work together and genuinely help each other achieve what we all are looking for in ourselves. Lastly Be humble and a positive representation of our sport. show the community that we are people who live to better ourselves and those around us.
Thanks to Kenneth for taking the time to share his point of view – You are a great inspiration! I wish you all the best at this years CrossFit Games!
(The photo is from Mary Siani Photography)
