What is a mental block?

A mental block refers to a psychological or mental inability to access one's own capabilities, knowledge, or talent, particularly when needed to perform tasks or under pressure. Flex Wheeler, a guest on the Mind Pump Podcast, describes a mental block as a self-limiting belief that prevents acceptance of one's potential to excel. For instance, despite his capabilities in other competitions, Flex discusses having a mental block regarding the Olympia, where he couldn't see himself as being number one 1.

Additional perspective is provided by a caller discussing a mental block concerning deadlifting, characterized by hesitancy and lack of motivation to perform the lift, which was further exacerbated by life stressors like career changes and family responsibilities. This block affected the caller's gym performance, demonstrating how mental blocks can impede physical as well as psychological performance 2.