This message is for wrestlers who work their tails off. Slackers will use as an excuse to miss workouts.

One of the biggest mental mistakes I see is wrestlers practicing, lifting and training without a purpose. It is sad because there are many wrestlers who are hard working and passionate but they fail to improve much. Usually it is because they are doing things without a good purpose.

You can go through a whole season of practices without improving much at all. I hate to say it but many practices are simply a waste of time for many wrestlers. Now this doesn’t mean to practice less at all. It simply means- Have a Purpose each time you train.

When you wrestle in practice have something EACH day you are trying to accomplish (i.e. move feet better, finish single leg quicker, mat returns, etc.). Spend at least a few minutes before, during or after practice improving that area. This is called deliberate practice and is one of the key factors in developing an elite performer.

When you lift weights, what are trying to accomplish? For starters the goal is to get stronger for wrestling and to help prevent injuries. Not to get abs or even to get bigger. Focus on the things that will help you wrestle better and avoid injuries.

When you run, what is your purpose? Are you trying to lose weight, improve general fitness, or have gas in the third period? The answer will help determine what you should be doing.

Mindset Tip: Before each practice or workout write down at least one thing you are trying focus on or accomplish. It will make a world of a difference!