EP46: FEED THE CATS - How to Train Smarter with Tony Holler
Mar 1, 2024
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Tony Holler, creator of 'Feed the Cats', challenges traditional conditioning methods in sports, emphasizing rest and athleticism in training. He advocates for a smarter approach to practice, promoting a 4-day work week and prioritizing sleep. Discusses the need for coaches to embrace player-centered coaching and efficiency in training methods.
Prioritizing athleticism over traditional conditioning enhances player performance.
Embracing smarter and more efficient training methods can revolutionize coaching practices and player development.
Deep dives
Effect of Traditional Coaching Practices on Player Development
Traditional coaching practices often focus on repeating past methods without considering their effectiveness, leading to young talents parroting outdated strategies. This trend is fueled by top-down leadership that promotes alignment over innovation, hindering the evolution of coaching practices.
Misconceptions about Conditioning in Basketball
Contrary to common belief, excessive conditioning does not necessarily enhance basketball performance. The importance of prioritizing athleticism, defined as speed, strength, and explosiveness, over traditional fatigue-inducing conditioning routines is emphasized. Practicing fundamentals in a fresh state is highlighted to optimize skill acquisition and player development.
Reshaping Coaching Approaches through the 'Feed the Cats' Program
The 'Feed the Cats' program, conceptualized by Tony Holler, shifts the focus from traditional conditioning to promoting athleticism and skill-specific training. By prioritizing rest, recovery, and high-intensity training bursts, athletes are encouraged to train like sprinters with a focus on explosive movements, challenging the conventional grind culture prevalent in sports.
Overcoming Resistance to Change in Coaching Philosophy
Transitioning from traditional coaching methods to more innovative approaches often faces resistance from coaches deeply entrenched in conventional practices. Encouraging a shift towards smarter, more efficient training through data-driven insights and compelling storytelling can help reshape coaching ideologies and enhance player development.
In this episode, Alex Sarama interviews Tony Holler, the creator of the "Feed the Cats" program. Tony shares his insights on the flaws of traditional conditioning methods in sports and how they can hinder player development. He emphasizes the importance of rest, recovery, and prioritizing athleticism in training. Tony challenges the notion that hard work and constant grinding are the keys to success, advocating for a smarter and more efficient approach to practice. He also discusses the need for coaches to change their mindset and embrace a more player-centered approach to coaching.