
The Perception & Action Podcast
Exploration of how psychological research can be applied to improving performance, accelerating skill acquisition and designing new technologies in sports and other high performance domains. Hosted by Rob Gray, professor of Human Systems Engineering at Arizona State University, the podcast will review basic concepts and discuss the latest research in these areas.
Latest episodes

Sep 10, 2024 • 43min
508 – Liveliness in Training and the CLA, Interview w Pete Blair, Texas State University
Pete Blair, Executive Director at Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training, discussed the vital role of liveliness in various training contexts. He shared insights on the Contextual Learning Approach, emphasizing the need for adaptable and realistic scenarios in law enforcement. The conversation critiqued traditional training methods, advocating for a constraints-led approach that promotes flexibility and critical thinking in high-pressure situations. Additionally, Blair stressed the importance of bridging the gap between training and real-life application, drawing parallels with combative sports.

Sep 3, 2024 • 15min
507 - Nonlinear vs Linear Pedagogy for Police Training. What learners need vs. what they want
Dive into the intriguing world of police knife defense training! The discussion revolves around a study comparing linear and nonlinear teaching methods. Discover how non-linear methods enhance adaptability and performance. There's also a surprising look at what trainees really want versus what they need. This exploration reveals the essential balance between structured guidance and flexible learning in high-stakes scenarios.

Aug 27, 2024 • 18min
506 - Perceiving Higher Order Affordances in Sports & Fields of Safe Travel
The discussion dives into how athletes perceive complex opportunities in sports, especially in soccer. It emphasizes the importance of direct perception over analytical thinking in making quick decisions on the field. The fascinating interplay of lower-order and higher-order affordances is unpacked, along with how players navigate safe pathways while executing plays. This exploration reveals insights into the cognitive strategies that enhance athletic performance.

21 snips
Aug 20, 2024 • 29min
505 – Synergies, Equilibrium Points & Fascia
Dive into the fascinating world of motor control as the discussion highlights the importance of motor synergies in sports training. Discover the equilibrium point hypothesis and how it reshapes our understanding of movement. The vital role of fascia in enhancing movement efficiency and sensory perception is explored. The talk transitions from conventional coaching techniques to focusing on the deeper purpose of movement, emphasizing how this shift can elevate athlete performance.

Aug 13, 2024 • 14min
504 – Is There An Optimal Amount of Practice Variability for Learning That Depends on Skill Level?
Is there a sweet spot for practice variability in learning? The discussion dives into how the ideal level can vary based on a learner's skill. Surprisingly, lower variability may boost performance in beginners, challenging conventional wisdom. The fascinating research highlights the complexities of motor learning and suggests that more practice isn't always better. Tune in for insights that could reshape how we think about training and skill acquisition!

Jul 30, 2024 • 1h 18min
503 – An Ecological Approach to Police Defensive Tactics Training (JC44)
In this insightful discussion, Chris Butler, a trainer from Trainers Bullpen, and Jeff Quail from Setcan explore the application of ecological dynamics in police training. They highlight the need for adaptive learning in high-pressure situations, critiquing traditional methods for their limitations. The duo advocates for a 'living range' concept for realistic scenarios, emphasizing technology integration and decision-making skills. They also delve into essential handgun tactics and the legal frameworks affecting police responses, aiming to revolutionize defensive tactics training.

4 snips
Jul 23, 2024 • 41min
502 – A Framework for Using Virtual Reality (VR) in Sports, Luke Wilkins, LaTrobe University
Luke Wilkins from LaTrobe University discusses a framework for using Virtual Reality in sports, focusing on baseball. They explore enhancing psychological performance and player technique testing with VR. The podcast also discusses post-game analysis benefits and future projects in baseball and soccer contexts.

Jul 16, 2024 • 54min
501 – Kinesthetic Awareness Training to Support Skill Acquisition, Jo Shattuck PantherTec (JC43)
Jo Shattuck discusses Kinesthetic Awareness Training (KATS) for skill acquisition, focusing on real-time feedback devices. They explore applications in sports science, astronaut training, and changing movement patterns. The podcast highlights the importance of tailored training, individualization, and enhancing learning efficiency through kinesthetic awareness.

6 snips
Jul 9, 2024 • 1h 12min
500 – Ask Me Anything (AMA)
Celebrating the 500th episode with an AMA session covering training methods in sports, varied practice approaches, nonlinear pedagogy in coaching, enhancing movement skills in athletes, and future plans for the podcast.

Jul 2, 2024 • 1h 6min
499 – An Ecological Approach to Training Sword Martial Arts w Sean Franklin (JC42)
Sean Franklin discusses applying a constraints-led approach to teach sword martial arts. Topics include historical European martial arts, ecological training dynamics, constraints in skill development, collaboration in teaching, and variations in scoring and training methods for sword martial arts.