Coach's Corner: Six Ways Strength Training Builds Confidence In Athletes | D1 Daily
Clif Marshall is D1 Training's Senior Director of Coaching and Pro Training. Each week in D1 Daily, Clif shares his insight gained from more than 20 years working in strength and conditioning.
Strength training does more than just build muscle. It builds confidence, and for athletes, that’s huge.
Here’s how:
1. Physical strength leads to mental strength.
When athletes see themselves lifting heavier weights or performing exercises they couldn’t before, it creates a sense of progress and mastery. That carries over into their sport.
2. Improved body composition and appearance.
Feeling leaner, stronger, and more powerful often boosts self-image, which helps athletes carry themselves with more confidence on and off the field.
3. Better performance = more belief.
Strength training directly improves speed, power, endurance, and resilience. When athletes know they’re physically prepared, they step into competition with greater assurance.
4. Resilience against setbacks.
Training teaches athletes how to overcome challenges—pushing through tough reps or breaking plateaus. This mental toughness helps them face adversity in games with more confidence.
5. Injury prevention gives peace of mind.
When athletes feel their body is strong and durable, they’re less hesitant to push hard, cut, jump, or collide. That trust in their body builds confidence in their play.
6. Discipline carries over.
Consistent strength training requires commitment. The discipline of showing up, working hard, and tracking progress builds self-confidence beyond sports.
In short: athletes who are strong move better, feel better, and believe in themselves more—and that confidence shows up every time they compete.
Don't Miss: The Turf!
Looking for a podcast to listen to this weekend? The newest episode of The Turf: Powered by D1 released this week, featuring guest R.A. Dickey, a former MLB pitcher and Cy Young award winner.
Listen on Apply or Spotify, or watch the YouTube episode below.