10/12/2021
The Journey to my 1st National Medal. 2015 American Open in Reno Bronze in Clean and Jerk (-58kg).
I never truly valued the importance of positivity until this competition. After that, I understood the mind can overcome the body.
I used to cut a lot of water weight to be in the 58kg class. It’s not super safe, but I did it because I could be competitive and stand on the podium.
Typically I would drink a pedialyte after weigh-ins, but this competition was the first time I drank Gatorade instead. It didn’t rehydrate me. It started cramping up in clean and jerks.
My coach, Armand, a tough marine, heard me say “I don’t think I can do it, I’m cramping”. I had already missed my first two attempts at 105kg. I had one attempt left. My entire body was shaking. Complete jelly. I felt I couldn’t control my limbs.
Negative comments were not allowed with Armand. That’s when he got a very serious voice and said something like “You need to tell yourself you can do this. Positive thoughts only. You CAN do this. These people came here to watch you perform. Now go out there and show them!”
I thought to myself “he’s right, and I trust him and trust myself to do this. Have faith in your training and your coach and GO FOR IT”
I blacked out during the entire lift. I had no time to think about anything. I was in a different zone.
To this day I still think about the mental toughness it took to overcome how my body was feeling. I think about how important it was for my coach to be positive for me and get the negative demons out. Positive thinking saved me.
Putting your full trust into your coach and their program is very important to be successful as an athlete.
If you need guidance in weightlifting, please reach out. and I offer remote coaching and want to help you get to be your best! We are passionate about teaching weightlifting and helping people through their journey!❤️
