"Welcome to the Inner Game"

http://www.signs-of-stress.com/symptoms-of-stress.html

The book begins with a description of "the inner game" or the mental stage of success. Not only is this diagram provided by "Stress Free Forever!" applicable, it is entirely correct in the ideas that the writers of Mind Gym attempt to convey: the notion that an athlete's success is heavily based on the mindset of a person. These symptoms are often present in those who have yet to achieve athletic success. By providing many examples of athlete's with incorrect mindset, the authors conclude that mental health significantly increases performance. Mind Gym offers simple mnemonic devices that may improve mental weaknesses that hinder physical performance such as "The Four D's: desire, dedication, determination, and discipline" (Mack 92). These techniques along with mental exercises and anecdotes from various elite athletes coalesce to create the ultimate experience that revitalizes the mind and triggers a rebirth of your mentality. 
My opinion: I personally enjoy Part I because it sets the tone for the rest of the book which is informal, focused, positive, and direct. Mack and Casstevens introduce the usage of rhetorical questions and personal mental exercises that engage the reader to better understand the material being learned. Many constructive terminologies are used such as motivation, positive energy, and optimistic mentality. However, I must admit that at many points the authors belabor points that have already been established. Perhaps it is a psychology technique to ingrain certain ideas in one's mind by repetition. In any case, as a reader seeking self-help I was mostly captivated by the lessons preached.


Mack, Gary, and David Casstevens. Mind Gym: An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence.
     New York: Contemporary, 2001. Print.