Your Performing Edge: The Total Mind-body Program for Excellence in Sports, Business and Life, 4th Edition

As a mental health practitioner and current trainer for my first marathon this Fall (Marine Corp Marathon, Washington, DC), it is with pleasure that I review Dr. Dahlkoetter's fine book. The importance of developing sound mental strategies for successful running cannot be overstated. As a 53 year old non-runner, I initially harbored some doubts about my ability to take on the physical challenges of a marathon. Having completed over half of the training, I am now confident that I have the physical strength to attain my goal. What I did not realize was that SUCCESSFUL running is also very much a state of mind, and in order to achieve EXCELLENCE as a runner, one must also acquire sound mental training skills. As luck would have it, I came across "Your Performing Edge - The Complete Guide To Success And Fulfillment In Sports And Life," which I strongly recommend. Dr. Dahlkoetter, a former San Francisco Marathon winner and trainer of numerous Olympic and professional athletes, has written the ultimate book on optimal mind-body performance. I have used JoAnn's book as my Bible, and refer to it frequently in my capacity as a physically active woman as well as for my personal growth. It is easy to read, thorough and intelligent.

I am happy to say that, with Dr. Dahlkoetter's help, I have now developed the muscles of BOTH my body and spirit, and am fully prepared for the "race of my life."


Being a mentally strong competitor -Your Performing Edge   October 20, 2001
Chuck MacDonald (Redding California)
5 out of 5 found this review helpful

For the past 10 years I have been a fairly competitive Masters and Seniors(50 age group) runner in The PA Series of USATF in both Road Racing and Cross Country. As I have gotten older I find that the mental aspects of running, racing and training are even more important than the physical aspects. You can be in great shape physically, but if you are not mentally strong your performance will suffer. Dr JoAnn Dahlkoetter's book, Your Performing Edge helps you to see in very easy steps how to become mentally tuff, how to focus on your goal. I have learned more in a few weeks about being mentally focused to compete than I have in many years of running and racing. JoAnn shows you step by step how to become a mentally stronger, more focused competitor in sports and in life. I would highly recommend Dr Dahlkoetter's book to any athlete of any sport, or anyone who wants to compete better at life in general. I wish I had this knowledge 10 years ago, I would definitely be a stronger and faster runner and a better person.

Chuck MacDonald


YOUR PERFORMING EDGE, A Coaches Friend   October 20, 2001
Wayne R Spaulding (Pleasant Hill, CA United States)
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

I am happy to say that, with Dr. Dahlkoetter's help, I have now added to my coaches toolbox the ability to not only develop my athletes bodies but also their minds. Your Performing Edge is an empowering read...straightforward and concise. It offers the practical approach that is missing in many books on sports psychology. As a coach who prepares over 90 athletes a year for Ironman distance racing, YOUR PERFORMING EDGE: The Complete Guide to Success and Fulfillment in Sports and Life, is THE tool for a coach to pull valuable lessons from. Check it out at JoAnn's website. www.YourPerformingEdge.com


mind and body   October 27, 2001
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

I love this book, because it gives more than a theory on how to get to your peak performance. There are so many practical ways to not only to achieve a higher level outwardly, but also to maintain a healthy mental state while you strain to be your best. Included in the book are many top athletes' helpful strategies to guide you.


Your Performing Edge- A Superb Realistic Guide   January 20, 2002
Michael Dove (Salinas, CA United States)
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

I have been a Nationally ranked Senior Distance Runner and search eagerly for books on the subject of Running. Dr. Dahlkoetter has written a superb guide that has already helped my running and added value to my non-running life as well. I was most impressed with how realistic it is and how many great mental exercises are explained. Definitely a must read for anyone, whether they compete or not. I am the Training Director of the Big Sur Marathon and coordinate a series of training sessions for first time and experienced Marathoners. Dr. Dahlkoetter's book is on the MUST READ list, right along with Galloway and Sheehan.