CrossFit: The Effect of Self-talk on Performance

The goal of this research is to document and explore the effect of self-talk on performance in CrossFit. The outcomes of this research will contribute to the design of an app to help athletes improve their positive self-talk. This study also will help athletes to understand how to be self-conscious, and reflective, and to use visual design to enhance self-talk techniques. Self-talk is statements that athletes repeat to themselves during training to improve their focus and boost their energy to perform better. The goal of self-talk is to replace negative thinking with more positive messages. It could be motivational such as “Let’s give It all” or “You can do it”, or instructional which focuses on techniques and forms like “engage your core” or “activate your shoulder”. Self-confidence is the key to developing mental toughness, and self-talk is the best strategy to help athletes believe in their ability by saying the right words to themselves. Some athletes might find it difficult to be self-conscious or replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Physical strength alone is not enough to enhance performance in CrossFit. Optimal performance depends on mental preparation as well as physical preparation. As an athlete in CrossFit, I have never heard the community or coaches speaking about how self-talk can lead to mental toughness. Additionally, there is no research study on mental preparation in CrossFit sports. CrossFit is a combination of Olympic weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio that is performed at high intensity. Speed and form are both equally important in this sport which leads to a lot of pressure and stress on athletes. In my research, I am going to focus on techniques that develop and document self-talk and its direct effect on specific workouts in CrossFit. My methods will include self-reflective practice, observation, diagramming, experimentation with workout/self-talk combinations, and participant surveys and discussion. I am hoping this study helps the CrossFit community to understand how to be self-conscious, and how to improve their mental toughness through self-talk techniques to enhance their self-confidence and performance in CrossFit through design practices.