Understanding and implementing isometric testing and training with athletes with Paul Comfort

Paul Comfort is a Reader in Strength and Conditioning and programme leader for the MSc Strength and Conditioning at the University of Salford, and is this week’s guest on the Pacey Performance Podcast.

He's here to talk to Rob about isometric testing and training, and why there has been a recent resurgence in its popularity. This includes how coaches can use the right metrics during isometric testing, and how the time points to measure athletes by changes based on their own needs and particular sport. For those working on a budget, Paul also explains the alternatives to force plates when testing, and the importance of real, hands-on experience as a coach.

Paul also discusses isometric training and its link to dynamic performance, such as the benefits it can offer in comparison to more traditional strength training techniques. Paul tells us about how coaches can manipulate isometric training to get the results we want, in addition to eccentric training - and when it is appropriate to apply it. For all this advice from an expert who has co-authored over 150 peer-reviewed journal articles along with numerous book chapters, hit the play button now.

This week’s topics:

• Why Paul believes there has been a resurgence in isometric testing and training
• Using the right metrics in isometric testing
• Alternative options to force plates
• Paul’s views on strain gauges in sport-specific testing positions
• The link to dynamic performance when doing isometric training
• The benefits of isometric training compared with traditional strength training
• How we can manipulate isometric training to get the results we want
• The benefits of eccentric training and how to apply it
• Where to find more information about isometric and eccentric training