The Adaptable Athlete Podcast Practice That Transfers: From Problem Solving to Game Day w/ Shawn Myszka
Sep 3, 2025
Shawn Myszka, the "Movement Miyagi" and author of "Enhancing Skill in American Football," dives into revolutionary training philosophies. He discusses Wu Xin, or "no-mindedness," allowing athletes to adapt instinctively. Myszka emphasizes collaboration over ownership in coaching, drawing insights from legends like Barry Sanders. The conversation critiques traditional speed training, advocating for scenarios that reflect game conditions. He also highlights the importance of mindfulness, presence, and data-driven practices to enhance overall player readiness and skill transfer.
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No-Mindedness Enhances Perception-Action
- Wuxian (no-mindedness) means reducing rigid intentions so athletes better perceive the "what is" in front of them.
- Shawn argues this frees perception-action coupling and improves adaptive skill expression on game day.
Teddy Bridgewater Comeback Memory
- Shawn's favorite football memory was Teddy Bridgewater's 2017 comeback after a full knee reconstruction.
- The crowd reception and Bridgewater's return left a lasting emotional impression on Shawn.
Partner With Athletes, Don’t Own Them
- Partner with athletes rather than "owning" them and treat coaching as facilitation and collaboration.
- Invite athlete input and shared decision-making to support agency and better transfer to competition.
