Episode 13: Data-Informed Coaching & The Future of Speed Training with Matt Tometz

00:00 – 01:00 | Introduction & Catching Up Justin introduces Matt Tometz (aka Coach Big Toe). The two reconnect and discuss how their paths originally crossed through 1080 and mutual contacts.01:00 – 03:30 | Transition to 1080 & New Role Matt shares his move from on-floor coaching to leading marketing at 1080. He explains how his coaching experience, content creation skills, and product familiarity made the transition natural.03:30 – 06:15 | Load Velocity Profiling & “Peaking Out” They dive into LVP basics. Matt explains the concept of “peaking out” — ensuring an athlete hits top velocity at each load for valid data. He discusses how that impacts profiling accuracy and programming.06:15 – 09:00 | Troubleshooting Profiling: Load, Distance, and R² Justin asks how to respond if an athlete doesn’t peak. Matt introduces the “triangle” approach: coach's eye, athlete feedback, and the data. He breaks down the importance of maintaining consistent protocols and explains how R² helps validate the profile.09:00 – 10:30 | What’s a Good R²? Matt suggests aiming for R² > 0.97–0.98. Below that range likely indicates a flawed profile or poor execution, in which case it’s best to repeat the session.10:30 – 14:00 | Coaching with Tech vs. Coaching without It Justin asks about Matt’s perspective on sports tech. Matt emphasizes that tech is just hardware — it’s how you use it that matters. He shares how he ran his own experiments with 1080 at TC Boost and how good training doesn’t require fancy tools.14:00 – 16:45 | What Tech Adds: Precision, Not Necessity Matt breaks down how coaches can now “put fingers on” previously invisible performance factors. He explains metrics like RF max, DRF, V max, and V zero. He also contrasts old-school Excel-based workflows with today's instant software outputs.16:45 – 20:30 | Data-Informed vs. Data-Driven Matt explains the difference: - *Data-driven* = letting the data dictate every decision - *Data-informed* = using data alongside coaching judgment He gives a practical example of adjusting RF max thresholds to better fit a team’s needs.20:30 – 24:00 | Best Low-Cost Tools for Speed Training Matt outlines his favorite affordable tools—specifically thick resistance bands (~$60) used in a double-loop configuration. He prefers them to friction-based devices due to smoother resistance and versatility.24:00 – 27:00 | Velocity Decrement Without Expensive Tech He explains how coaches can simulate velocity-based programming using time and distance. Example: if an athlete runs 10 yards in 2 seconds unresisted, aim for 4 seconds to simulate 50% VDEC. He shares how he scaled this with large groups using run rockets and manual timing.27:00 – 29:00 | Where to Find Matt & Final Thoughts Matt plugs his social media (@CoachBigToe), YouTube, podcast, and Patreon, where he posts exclusive articles. Make sure to give Matt a follow!