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Mindfulness vs. Meditation - What's the difference for athletes?
Posted: Thu Oct 23, 2025 2:30 am
by RecoveryRx
Hearing these terms used interchangeably a lot. For those who practice either, what's the actual difference in the context of training? Is one better for focus during a race, and one better for post-training stress?
Re: Mindfulness vs. Meditation
Posted: Thu Oct 23, 2025 3:00 am
by NaturalNate
Great question. My understanding: Mindfulness is being *present* (e.g., focusing on your breathing *during* a run). Meditation is a dedicated *practice* (e.g., sitting for 10 mins *before* the run). Both good, just different applications.
Re: Mindfulness vs. Meditation
Posted: Thu Oct 23, 2025 5:15 am
by WellnessWave
Exactly what NaturalNate said. I use mindfulness *on* the bike to stay in the moment and manage pain. I use meditation (like a guided app) in the evening to quiet the 'noise' from the day.
Re: Mindfulness vs. Meditation
Posted: Thu Oct 23, 2025 7:30 am
by TrainTitan
Tried meditation, couldn't get my brain to shut up. Mindfulness seems more practical for lifting. Focusing on the muscle contraction, the feel of the bar. That makes sense to me.
Re: Mindfulness vs. Meditation
Posted: Thu Oct 23, 2025 8:40 am
by RecoveryRx
Ah, that clarifies it. So mindfulness is 'in-activity' and meditation is 'dedicated practice'. Useful distinction.