We generally tend to focus more on our physical condition than on our emotional or mental state. However, a bad mood can translate into poor athletic performance. Our emotions affect us whether we address them or not, and therefore it's important to implement strategies that help us break free from this control.

Today, Alejandro Samper, a mountain runner and professional obstacle course racer, is visiting our office. Alejandro Samper knows this firsthand, as he competes professionally while living with diabetes. This has led to situations where his emotional state hasn't been ideal, sometimes resulting in injuries due to lack of focus or frustration.

Alejandro Samper Jara (Oriocx athlete) training in nature

ALEJANDRO, WHAT DOES INJURY PREVENTION MEAN TO YOU?

“Preventing injuries means learning to listen to your body and your emotions. Not just when an injury manifests physically, but also in how you feel energetically. Do you wake up tired? Have you been training for several days without motivation? Do you feel heavy in your body and feel worse after training? Then it's time to stop.”

One solution to break the monotony or a plateau is to alternate training types (not always training the same way). This can involve alternating high-intensity days with recovery days and some strength training. Furthermore, this solution prevents 80% of the injuries we commonly see.

STOPPING IS NOT ALWAYS BAD

If you identify with any of the questions Alejandro raised earlier, then you need to take a break. Stopping isn't a bad thing if it helps you reflect and stabilize your emotions. That break can be your little moment of clarity, when your mood returns to its best state.

It's a small change that leads to big results; a better mood improves your emotional stability, and that translates to better physical performance. Feeling motivated, eager, and with a clear goal will help you achieve any objective you set for yourself.

See you on the mountain!