The #1 Reason to Talk to Yourself at the Gym

A recent study published in Medicine & Science of Sports & Exercise found that athletes who practiced motivational self-talk—that is, thinking positive, encouraging things—were able to push harder for longer, which ultimately increased their endurance.

"This strategy reduces perceived effort, making the task seem less difficult," says study coauthor Anthony Blanchfield, Ph.D. "The beauty of it is that it's easy and free and you can do it anywhere."

At at a loss for words? Lace up with a Momentum Foot Notes shoe charm ($10); each is engraved with a saying like "Dig Deep" or "Make It Happen." Repeat the mantra to cancel out the 'can't.'

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