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Athlete Quote by Dick Fosbury

“When you reach that elite level, 90 percent is mental and 10 percent is physical. You are competing against yourself. Not against the other athlete.” quote by Dick Fosbury
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“When you reach that elite level, 90 percent is mental and 10 percent is physical. You are competing against yourself. Not against the other athlete.”

Dick Fosbury

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Art of Jumping, Dick Fosbury, 1975

Elite performance relies mostly on mental strength; physical skill is secondary, and competition is internal.

In simple terms: Mindset matters more than body in top-level sport.

Key Takeaway

Focus on mental training.

Themes

performance mindset self‑competition athletics

Mood

motivational reflective

Type

sports self‑help

When to use this quote

  • coaching
  • personal development
  • sports psychology
  • goal setting
  • competition

Key Concepts

psychology self‑discipline motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can athletes balance mental and physical preparation?
  • What mental techniques boost elite performance?
A Different Perspective

Physical limits can still hinder achievement despite mental focus.

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