Isometrics for performance enhancement and rehabilitation with Connor Schoepp
Feb 8, 2024
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Connor Schoepp, Director of Applied Sports Performance at Liberty University, discusses the critical role of isometrics in enhancing athletic performance and aiding rehabilitation. He highlights how isometrics improve motor learning, control, and can be specifically targeted to benefit athletes. The conversation also covers the logistical challenges of implementing isometric training and combining it with dynamic work and movement prep. Connor emphasizes the importance of isometrics in hamstring rehab and the progression from overcoming to yielding isometrics.
Isometrics improve motor learning, control, and can be specifically targeted to benefit athletes during their training and return to play phases.
Isometrics play a crucial role in hamstring rehabilitation, helping restore neural pathways and reducing inhibitions in a progressive manner.
The effectiveness of isometrics in reducing hamstring injuries is still debated, but many practitioners include them in their training programs to address specific risk factors.
Deep dives
The importance of isometrics in training
Isometrics can help athletes connect the dots on how to produce force in specific positions and vectors. They provide opportunities for motor learning and help isolate and target specific qualities. Isometrics are a versatile tool that can be incorporated into different phases of training to address different training goals.
Isometric training for hamstring injury rehab
Isometrics can be used in hamstring injury rehabilitation to restore neural pathways and reduce inhibitions. The rehab process starts with isometrics and gradually progresses to include general strength training and dynamic movements. The specific progressions and exercises depend on the severity and type of injury.
The controversy surrounding isometrics and hamstring injuries
There is debate about the effectiveness of isometrics in reducing hamstring injuries. Some argue that they are as effective as any other general strength exercise, while others believe they may be counterproductive. The jury is still out, but many practitioners still include isometrics in their training programs.
The sprint-based model for reducing hamstring injuries
The sprint-based model focuses on gradually progressing athletes from isolated rehab to sprinting drills. The rehab includes normalization of gait and movement patterns, as well as exercises to improve lumbar pelvic control. Sprint drills are gradually introduced to simulate high-speed demands, and pain and intensity are tracked to ensure gradual progression.
Reverse engineering hamstring injuries to mitigate risk
To reduce hamstring injuries, practitioners should identify and address the specific risk factors associated with each case. This includes addressing structural issues, fatigue-driven issues, general strength deficits, lack of exposure to high-speed sprinting, and other contributing factors. A tailored approach that targets the specific culprits can help mitigate the risk of hamstring injuries.
In episode 483 of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob speakers to Director of Applied Sports Performance at Liberty University, Connor Schoepp. With a focus on the critical role of isometrics in enhancing athletic performance and aiding rehabilitation, Connor shares his extensive experience and insights gained over nine years in the collegiate professional level.
Delving into why isometrics have become a cornerstone in programming for high-speed sports, Connor outlines how these exercises improve motor learning, control, and can be specifically targeted to benefit athletes during their training and return to play phases. He emphasizes isometrics' versatility in providing high stimulus at a low cost, making it an indispensable tool for strength coaches aiming to develop athletes without interfering with their sport.
The conversation also tackles the logistical challenges of implementing isometric training within the constraints of collegiate athletics, showcasing practical solutions for integrating these exercises into training regimens. Connor highlights the importance of addressing the "big rocks" of hip, knee, and ankle performance and rehab, and how dynamic work and movement prep can be synergistically combined with isometrics to mimic on-field movement patterns.
Connor discusses his approach to hamstring rehab, highlighting the importance of isometrics in developing strength without exacerbating injury. By integrating dynamic work and movement prep with isometric exercises, he showcases how to effectively mimic on-field movement patterns and support the healing process.
If you're interested in learning more about isometric strength training and hamstring injury rehab, this episode is for you.
Main talking points:
Isometrics' benefits for motor learning
Logistical challenges of implementing isometric training
Why some people still don't believe in the power of isometrics
Utilizing isometrics for effective hamstring rehabilitation
How to rehab a hamstring injury
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