TOP ATHLETES RUN A ‘MENTAL MARATHON’ TO SHOW THAT MENTAL STRENGTH IS AS IMPORTANT TO ATHLETIC SUCCESS AS PHYSICAL FITNESS
I’ve been making it a consistent point in reaching out to brands to remind them that listening to data from those who don’t participate in sports, and those who don’t actually sell the products, could influence decisions in a way that limits the natural reach that performance developments and storytelling offer to the everyday consumer. In London ASICS has unveiled a performance track that cloaks the runner in near darkness and silence forcing them to overcome the mental barriers that exist for running and training. While the article doesn’t state it, this is a form of sensory deprivation which pushes the athlete to conquer the inner challenge which inherently can assist the athlete in developing the habits needed to overcome the last mile or 4th quarter blocks which prevent athletes from becoming champions; or it can prevent the everyday person from moving from the couch to a healthier lifestyle.
It’s an intriguing and useful concept that is the foundation of many tactical training events done in the military.
ASICS unveiled the world’s first running track to train the mind: a custom-built 150-metre course in London, England, which is cloaked in darkness with no tech, no music, no scenery, no comforts and no finish line.
The ‘ASICS Blackout Track’ was developed in collaboration with sports scientists and top coaches to remove all distractions and encourage runners to truly focus on synchronising the mind and body.
Check out this video. As a marketing opportunity ASICS has big enough doors that they could actually build smaller versions of these rooms into their stores. It is really an intriguing concept and the type of thing I’d expect out of Nike. However, ASICS has been doing a fantastic job of developing ideas to improve the performance aspects of the company.