New research reported in the Journal of Sport Science examined the impact of a subtle grammatical difference in self-talk. When using second-person self-talk (e.g. you can tolerate the pain, you can keep going), participants completed a 10km cycling time trial significantly quicker, worked harder, yet did not perceive a difference in effort, compared to when completing the task using first-person self-talk. While more research is needed, it may be worthwhile for athletes to consider their self-talk practice. Check out an infographic of the research results.