The Perception & Action Podcast

Discover innovative ways to assess athletic progress through the ecological approach. Explore the Method of Progressive Constraints, designed to effectively evaluate performance and enhance skill acquisition. Learn how this method can revolutionize training by providing clear insights into an athlete's development. Get ready to rethink how you measure success in sports!

In this discussion, Andrew Wilson, a researcher in ecological psychology, highlights Michael Turvey's groundbreaking concepts from his book on perception. They dive into ecological psychology, arguing for a holistic understanding of systems over traditional cognitive approaches. Wilson critiques classical dualism and the limitations of Newtonian mechanics while advocating for an observer-centric view of perception. The conversation emphasizes intentionality in behavior and the complexities of perception, setting the stage for future explorations in this fascinating field.

Dive into the debate on balance bikes versus traditional bikes with training wheels! Discover how balance bikes improve postural control, facilitating better skill acquisition. The discussion highlights the transition from rigid to flexible movement, enhancing children's cycling abilities. Unpack recent research that shows how these bikes can lead to a more effective learning process for young riders.

Discover the intriguing link between variability in practice and the education of attention. Learn how adapting practice conditions can enhance decision-making in dynamic tasks, like driving and flying. Explore research findings that highlight the advantages of varied practice over constrained scenarios, improving skill transfer to real-world applications. The discussion dives into how effective practice environments can ultimately lead to better performance and safer actions in complex situations.

Dive into the fascinating world of athletic training with a new study on powerlifters. The discussion centers on the effectiveness of specific performance targets versus effort-based goals. Discover how precise velocity targets can enhance lifting performance and possibly reduce the risk of injuries. The debate raises intriguing questions about how athletes might optimize their training practices for better results. It’s a compelling look at the intersection of psychology and physical prowess!

Can fluctuations in performance data reveal the risk of sports injuries? This discussion delves into a novel approach to predicting injuries in youth soccer players. By examining psychological and physiological indicators, the researchers suggest that certain transition points can serve as early warning signs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of further research to enhance this predictive model and ensure athlete safety.

Discover the fascinating world of motor learning through the lens of practice variability. Explore how varying situations and scheduling can significantly enhance skill acquisition, with practical examples like tennis serving. Learn why beginners benefit from lower variability, emphasizing structured approaches to boost their learning effectiveness. Dive deep into the impact of initial learner variability and when to introduce practice changes for optimal skill development.

Celebrate milestones with personal updates ahead of a holiday break! Learn about upcoming collaborations in sports science and the return to theoretical ecological dynamics. Exciting plans for the next year include a deep dive into thrilling theories and the potential launch of a book club. Listeners are invited to engage and share their thoughts through social media and Patreon support.

Mel O'Connor, the visionary founder of Okkulo Ltd., and Jack Woodburn, a former soccer goalkeeper turned sports scientist, dive into the groundbreaking world of visual training for athletes. They discuss how manipulating ambient light can drastically improve visual perception and decision-making in sports like soccer, baseball, and UFC. The duo also shares insights on overcoming colorblindness challenges in sports and the exciting potential of their training system to enhance cognitive functions. Tune in for a fresh perspective on athletic performance!

Delve into fascinating research on motor control and how we catch balls! The discussion highlights the angle of approach effect and the differences between predictive and perspective control. Real-time visual adjustments are emphasized as crucial in dynamic catching scenarios. The hosts break down a recent study that seeks to replicate intriguing findings, sparking debate about how we perceive motion and adapt our movements in sports.