Shanif Dhanani is an avid fitness enthusiast that writes a series of short and sweet articles as part of the “Gym Tips” series on 20s↑.  To see other articles in this series, click here.

Image from Ben McLeod

Jack Niklaus claimed he never hit a golf shot, not even in practice, without having a sharp, in-focus picture of that shot in his head. Andre Agassi once told an interviewer that he had won Wimbledon at least ten thousand times in his head. NBA hall-of-famer Bill Russel imagined his biggest plays in his head before he even stepped foot onto a basketball court.

Many athletes visualize their greatness before they even achieve it.  The technique of using visualization to mentally prepare yourself isn’t just limited to sports.  Have you ever heard the song “Good Life” by Kanye?  Remember the lyric “Before I had it I closed my eyes and imagined”?  Look at him now.  Even if you don’t like the guy, you have to admit that he’s kind of a big deal.

What does all of this mean for you, particularly your fitness goals?

You can use that same technique to significantly increase the chances that you’ll achieve your fitness goals, up your intensity level in the gym, and improve your ability to work out.  So, gym tip number seven is this: visualize.

Before you even enter the gym, visualize your entire routine.  See yourself getting through each exercise with intensity.  Before each set, visualize each and every single rep you’re going to do.  During each lift, visualize and focus on the muscles that you’re working out.  Actually see them in your mind.  See them contracting, picture them working, hold them in focus in your head.  It will force you to work that muscle and avoid using momentum or getting lazy.

You’ll be surprised just how much more effective your workout can be.