[sidebar]Researchers from Bangor University in the United Kingdom recruited 24 volunteers who exercised at least twice a week to complete high-intensity cycling tests. Half the group recited self-talk statements, like “feeling good,” “you’re doing well,” and “push through this,” and the other half didn’t. Not only did the results show self-talkers could cycle longer—12 minutes 30 seconds compared to 10 minutes 37 seconds for the other group—but they also found that they perceived their effort to be significantly lower. That’s because even the slightest psychological effort can positively affect endurance, say researchers. Beyond self-talk, that includes a good night’s sleep, avoiding mental fatigue (too many looong days at the office) and a healthy diet. (Stay on track with these 20 Perfect Workout Snacks.) If your internal dialogue needs some help, don’t worry: just look to our archive of positive quotes you can borrow for your next sweat session or recite one of these 5 motivational fitness mantras.
