Q: I often feel so tired and rundown after a hard day at the office, I feel like going home and vegging in front of the TV. But then I tell myself how great I will feel within 10 minutes of being at the gym, and I do. Am I imagining things, or does the mind play a role in working out? - C.B., Fort Worth, TX

A: Good question. The mind plays a tremendous role, allowing you to achieve success as long as you tell yourself that that is your goal. What I mean is that if you have constant negative thoughts, you are only rehearsing for failure. But if you keep your thoughts positive all of the time, you'll be surprised at what you can achieve. Here's a simple way to practice accentuating the positive: Keep your workouts upbeat. Work on positive thoughts the same way you work on your body. "The world looks good. I'm glad I'm training today. I feel great." Avoid thoughts like "Things are piling up around me and I don't have time to exercise." Or, "I'll never get things done properly if I work out."

Remember that your training session is probably the only time that you will have all day that's just for you. You want it to be pleasant, positive and as productive as possible. Next time you say to yourself "I can't," block out this negative thought with "I can do it." I have done it many times before. You'll be surprised at the power of your own thinking as you begin your workout that day.

Source: fitlinxx.com