3 ways to channel your inner champion

We all want to be better. Of course, it takes know-how, but then it’s a matter of doing versus dreaming. That’s where Annie Thorisdottir comes in.

Within the CrossFit community and to her millions of followers, Annie is an icon and an inspiration. 

She’s competed in the CrossFit Games 10 times, made the podium five, and won the title as Fittest Women on Earth twice (2011 & 2012). To achieve the level of competitive success she has — and for as long as she has — there’s no doubt that Annie has something special.

Here, the Icelandic superwoman (and soon-to-be supermom) shares three ways to use a positive mindset to unleash the champion inside of you. 

1. Be present

Before even changing into workout clothes or starting the warm-up of a workout, put conscious thought and focus into what you’re about to do. “I always have a purpose or intention behind my training,” says Annie. “I know exactly what it is that I want to get out of it,” she adds. Putting this into practice could be as simple as taking a few deep breaths before you start your session. 

2. Be fearless

Exercise can be fun, but it’s not always going to be comfortable. “We all have pain thresholds, but when you push that limit is when you see results,” says Annie. Instead of looking at a tough workout as drudgery, view it only as temporary discomfort that will make you better. “Go hard when you’re supposed to go hard and embrace it,” she says. 

3. Be grateful

According to Annie, a little bit of gratitude can go a long way when it comes to achieving your fitness goals. “Exercise is something you get to do for yourself and you should enjoy it,” she says. Instead of getting hung up on personal or professional issues, use your workouts or classes as a time to decompress and release stress. Feeling uninspired? Don’t get hung up on it, Annie says. “No one is motivated all the time.”

Let Annie be your guide to become the champion of your world. Join her for a workout class - available March 17th on NEOU.