TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) In this weeks episode of Run for Fun, we are exercising our minds with meditation. There are plenty of benefits for athletes of all kinds to sit still and meditate.

Meditation does not necessarily mean chanting or sitting in strange positions. It can simply be taking an extended time to limit distractions and letting your brain focus.

Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss ways to incorporate meditation into your daily training. They also sit down with runner Michael Wilsey, who has seen improved performance in the year hes been meditating.

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Meditating can be helpful for anyone to lower stress and find a sense of calm, but athletes and runners may get additional benefits. It can help restore the body and allow them to train regularly with fewer injuries.

Pushing your body can increase mental stress. Taking time to relax the body and mind can help athletes limit mental drain and re-energize the body.

Athletes can also use the benefit of regular meditation to enhance their mental focus. This focus helps keep the runner or athlete zoned in during tough races or workouts. Limiting distractions allows your body to only focus on the task at hand.

Adding designated rest to your training can help you enjoy running without it feeling like a chore. Its just one way to Run for Fun. Be sure to watch or listen to previous episodes of the show for more tips.

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Run for Fun: Benefits of meditation for athletes - WFLA