Dr Josie Perry: The brain - body connection

In this episode of the Runner's World Podcast, hosts Rick Pearson and Ben Hobson interview sports psychologist Josie Perry about enhancing running performance through mental strength. Josie begins by explaining her role in helping athletes manage performance anxiety, maintain motivation, and build confidence through various psychological tools.

The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by athletes when they try to return to their sport after a break. Josie highlights how athletes, especially young ones, can feel their self-esteem tied to their performance, which can lead to disillusionment when facing setbacks or plateaus. She shares her method for working with runners, focusing on understanding their backgrounds, support systems, and barriers to performance.

Josie discusses the intricate connection between the brain and body in performance, introducing the concept of the 'threat system', which can negatively affect an athlete's mindset. She offers practical advice on managing injuries and risks associated with performance anxiety. The episode also touches on visualization techniques, the proper use of mantras, and the importance of staying focused on both goals and inputs.

Another significant point Perry raises is the influence of social media in an athlete's life, advocating for limited engagement with these platforms, as they can trigger social threats and negatively impact self-esteem. Lastly, she emphasizes the need for athletes to control what they can while letting go of external pressures, suggesting that focusing on personal performance inputs rather than outputs could lead to improved mental resilience and ultimately better results in races.