Dr. RJ Boergers, an Associate Professor in the Master of Science in Athletic Training program at Seton Hall University, discusses his journey into endurance sports, the impact of hobbies on one's life, the importance of active recovery, and creating a culture of failure and mentorship in training.
Strength training is crucial for endurance athletes to prevent injuries and improve overall alignment.
Dr. RJ Boergers transitioned from being an athletic trainer to a professor due to his passion for teaching and mentoring students.
Recreational and semi-coached endurance athletes should prioritize strength training during the off-season and incorporate active recovery and mobility training for optimal performance.
Deep dives
Transitioning into Endurance Sports
The podcast episode discusses how the guest, Dr. RJ Borgers, got started in the strength game and eventually transitioned into competing in triathlons and Ironman events. He attributes his interest in strength training to a course he took in college and his experience working for the Buffalo Bills. After participating in his first sprint triathlon, he fell in love with the sport and the supportive community surrounding it. Dr. Borgers emphasizes the importance of mindset and the positive impact endurance sports can have on personal growth and development.
Balancing Strength Training and Endurance Sports
Dr. Borgers highlights the significance of incorporating strength training into an endurance athlete's training regimen. He stresses the importance of load management and preventing chronic musculoskeletal injuries. By focusing on strength and mobility work, athletes can improve their posture, core stability, and overall alignment. Borgers and his co-author, Angelo Gingerelli, wrote a book called 'Finish Strong: Resistance Training for Endurance Athletes,' aimed at helping endurance athletes integrate strength training into their routines. The book addresses the common misconception that endurance athletes don't have time for strength training and highlights the numerous benefits it offers.
From Athletic Training to Teaching
Dr. Borgers shares his journey from working as an athletic trainer in college athletics to becoming a professor and researcher. His exposure to teaching through mentors and his passion for imparting wisdom and knowledge led him to pursue a career in academia. Although he enjoyed working as an athletic trainer, the long hours, low pay, and frustration with some coaching decisions motivated him to transition into teaching and research. Dr. Borgers finds fulfillment in mentoring students and helping them navigate their academic and professional paths, while drawing from his own experiences as an athletic trainer and endurance athlete.
Importance of Strength Training in Endurance Sports
Strength training is not only important for professional athletes but also for recreational and semi-coached athletes. While professionals rely on their bodies as a means of income, recreational athletes engage in endurance sports as a hobby and outlet. The majority of endurance sport athletes fall into the recreational and semi-coached categories, making this a larger pool of individuals than professionals. Strength training should be a priority during the off-season, as it allows athletes to build their bodies, work on different movements, and address weaknesses. Additionally, incorporating strength training during the taper period can enhance performance and maintain strength.
The Role of Recovery and Active Mobility in Endurance Sports
Proper recovery and active mobility play crucial roles in endurance sports. Active recovery, such as performing light movements and exercises after a race or intense training session, can aid in muscle recovery and restoration. This can involve incorporating light resistance exercises, like squats, to stretch and restore muscle lengths. Additionally, mobility training should be an ongoing practice to ensure optimal performance and prevent injuries. Many endurance athletes neglect mobility training, but it is essential for maintaining proper muscle lengths and addressing imbalances. Focusing on recovery and active mobility can greatly benefit individuals in their endurance sport pursuits.
Dr. RJ Boergers is an Associate Professor in the Master of Science in Athletic Training Program at Seton Hall University. Prior to arriving at Seton Hall in 2011 he was a clinical assistant professor at Stony Brook University from 2003-2010. In addition to being an AT educator for over 15 years, he is a certified athletic trainer who has worked in sports medicine at the collegiate level for many years before becoming a full-time professor. Boergers earned his Ph.D in Health Sciences/Movement Science in 2012 from Seton Hall and is a published author with over 15 peer-reviewed research publications as well as the co-author of the book Finish Strong: Resistance Training for Endurance Athletes.
Boergers has been a serious endurance athlete since 2007 and has competed in various events covering running, cycling, and swimming in multiple countries, including finishing 3 Ironman triathlons, more than 15 Ironman 70.3 races, as well as countless other races at various distances.
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