More from "The Winner's Brain"

"The Winner's Brain" is a well-referenced book giving concrete examples of techniques that can improve performance, taking advantage of neuroplasticity to improve brain structure and function.

Mental imagery can imprint neural changes. "This is because imagining the skill, and actually performing the skill, needs to be as closely executed as possible for effective transfer and reinforcement to neural structures (Currie & Ravenscroft, 1997). Thus, mental imagery competency requires a degree of attention and psychological effort to elicit the desired effect."  The advantages of effective mental imagery include time savings and avoidance of overtraining effects and fatigue. In other words, mental practice can create brain structure and function changes resulting in improved performance. 

Of course, at the end of the day, you have to use that brain power to get something done.