The Next Next Optimizing Athlete Development Through Load Management with Dr. Stephen McGregor
Optimizing Athlete Development Through Load Management with Dr. Stephen McGregor
In this episode of 'The Next Next', host Jason Jacobs engages in a detailed discussion with Dr. Stephen McGregor, a professor of exercise science at Eastern Michigan University and an expert in sensor technology for sports performance. Dr. McGregor shares insights from his 25+ years of experience in using sensors for monitoring athlete performance, particularly in hockey. The conversation covers a range of topics including load management, the application of sensor data for both team and individual athlete development, and the unique challenges of measuring physical exertion in sports settings. Dr. McGregor also discusses how his company, Sport Performance Technologies, under the brand Achieve, uses data to help teams optimize training loads and performance metrics. The episode delves into how different sensors and metrics can be used to tailor training regimens to individual athletes’ needs, ensuring optimal performance without overtraining.
00:00 Introduction to The Next Next
00:17 Meet Dr. Stephen McGregor: Expert in Sports Performance
01:26 The Role of Sensors in Sports
04:02 Steve's Journey from Soccer to Cycling
06:49 Innovations in Hockey Performance Tracking
12:12 Balancing Customization and Standardization
15:07 Achieve's Unique Approach to Load Management
20:22 Comparing Achieve with Other Wearables
25:57 Practical Applications and Success Stories
31:50 Balancing Rest and Performance
32:12 The Importance of Not Being Too Fresh
32:23 Case Study: Collegiate Team Experience
33:48 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Rest vs. Sharpness
35:05 Modeling and Metrics for Optimal Performance
36:30 Contextual Load Management
37:15 Team Characterization and Individual Needs
37:46 Practical Applications of Load Management
38:45 High Capacity Players and Workload
41:19 International Tournaments and Player Workload
43:24 Technology in Hockey: Adoption and Challenges
46:31 Comparing Sensor Systems in Hockey
50:57 Achieve's Role in Player Development
58:41 Integrating AI and Big Data in Hockey
01:04:58 Final Thoughts and Future Directions