The Athlete's Brain

Tonight on the Front Porch, we're getting inside the athletic brain. Even though sports are obviously considered physical activities first and formost, they all have mental and emotional aspects that play a large role, too. Runners, in particular, are a passionate lot. We'll find out where the line is between hobby and addiction when it comes to running. And we'll hear from some boxers who can explain what goes on in their heads when they enter the ring.

Our guests are:

Michael Sachs, sports psychologist and professor in the department of Kinesiology at Temple University

Keith Shields, runner and multi-marathoner. Keith is also executive producer of NHPR's The Exchange

Producer Cally Carswell will take us inside the Portland Boxing Club, where we'll meet some boxers who will explain the mental side of their sport. Her piece comes to us through the Public Radio Exchange.

You can read more about Lisa Kuronya, one of the boxers in tonight's show, here, here, and here.