The Game Speed Podcast Ep 136: Killian Hamilton- Insights on Programming For Pro Athletes, Speed Development, and Skill Acquisition
Jul 4, 2025
Killian Hamilton, a strength coach and educator who trained NHL star Sam Bennett, shares his insights on developing elite speed and skill. He discusses innovative training strategies, emphasizing individualized approaches to maximize performance while preventing burnout. Killian also highlights the importance of targeted training for young athletes, prioritizing speed and skill over conventional methods. Additionally, he reflects on future initiatives in athlete development and the significance of youth sports, peppered with anecdotes from his coaching journey.
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Training Builds Empathy for Athletes
- Killian Hamilton trains himself to understand athlete experiences and build empathy.
- He uses personal effort as a way to relate to young athletes' fatigue and effort levels in training.
Applying Brakes for Elite Athletes
- For elite athletes, the coach often needs to apply the brakes instead of the gas to prevent burnout.
- Creative session adjustments like indoor work or lower-impact drills help manage athlete workload.
Adjust Based on Athlete Feedback
- Knowing your athletes intimately allows you to adjust intensity and risk dynamically.
- Modify drills and loads based on athlete status, mood, and readiness to prevent injury.