For me, my bootcamp is more than just getting stronger physically — it’s about training my brain. My 5 a.m. journey is a battle between the ears. It’s about shaping my motivation, will and attitude.
Somedays I fail. Somedays I succeed. But I’m fighting.
The Mayo Clinic’s website spells it out in black and white: “Research on anxiety, depression and exercise shows that the psychological and physical benefits of exercise can also help reduce anxiety and improve mood.” How awesome is that?!? This morning, I felt my endorphins surge. By the time I ran off the field at 6 a.m., I felt 100% better than when I woke up. That improvement in mood is still with me an hour and a half later.
Plus, exercising to improve your mood has some awesome side effects: Stronger heart, better lungs, less fat, better sleep, more self confidence. And you look good. Well, you would look good. I look like a thinner version of me. But you get the point.
When I am out there challenging myself, I’m learning that my body can do things my mind thinks it can’t. I learn to push boundaries. I learn to overcome obstacles. I focus on what I need to do and learn to shut out the chatter in my brain.
And I get those endorphins. I love those endorphins.
Exercise is my drug and I’m an addict. But that’s OK. Like my late high school coach always said, it helps me get my mind right.