Can an ancient philosophical practice really be the key to unlocking your next big PR?
Hell Yes, it might just be the answer.
You certainly won’t hit that PR by watching Netflix, and the secret to getting faster isn't going to come from a TikTok video. However, you might see some improvement by focusing on what's happening inside your mind during your efforts.
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that teaches resilience, mental fortitude, and focus on what can be controlled—key traits for any athlete. Originally taught by great Greek philosophers like Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, Stoicism has been revived in the modern era through books like “The Obstacle is the Way” and “The Daily Stoic” (both by Ryan Holiday). The Stoic practice of focusing on the present moment and accepting discomfort as a natural part of growth aligns perfectly with the mental discipline needed for endurance sports. By embracing Stoic principles, athletes can better manage stress and setbacks, maintain composure in challenging situations, and stay present during training and competitions. Adopting a Stoic mindset can lead to improved mental clarity, emotional stability, and a stronger, more determined spirit.
Whether you are racing a triathlon, running the Boston Marathon, or simply running a local 5k, one of the most critical stoic teachings is also one of the single most important pieces of advice I give the athletes I coach before any effort: Focus on what you can control. When in doubt, ask yourself “is this something I can control?” if the answer is no, then let it go.
P.s. - For athletes looking to dive a bit further into the mental training side of performance be sure to check out the TEAM P3 member discounts page for a 90 day free trial to the "Waking Up" Mindfulness App.
*Time Trial Tuesday posts are intended to be short primer posts to get you thinking, but they are also challenges for myself to see how quickly and simply I can get the topic across to all of you. I give myself 5 minutes on the clock to write each one. No filter, No editing, Just the thoughts in my head..... Scary.
About Nick Farr
Nick is the owner and Head Coach at P3 Fitness and has been a dedicated triathlete and runner for over 20 years. With a passion for endurance sports, Nick brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his coaching, specializing in triathlon, running, and cycling. As an accomplished athlete and certified multi-discipline coach, he has guided countless athletes to reach their personal bests and achieve their goals. In his role as a Triathlon coach at P3 Fitness, Nick is committed to helping each individual unlock their full potential through tailored training programs and expert guidance.
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