
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

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.

7 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 14min
498 – Using a CLA to Encourage Exploration in Learning a Volleyball Serve
Exploring how task constraint manipulations can enhance learning of a volleyball serve by encouraging exploration in the perceptual-motor workspace. The study's focus on altering constraints and adding repetitions to optimize performance and confidence levels. Delving into the importance of additional constraints for a more refined exploration process.

Jun 18, 2024 • 52min
497 - "Throw Hard, Stay Healthy": Training to Increase Action Capacity in Baseball Pitchers W Ryan Crotin (JC41)
Expert Ryan Crotin shares innovative arm strength training for baseball pitchers to prevent injuries and optimize performance. Topics include functional arm strength, biomechanics, grip activation exercises, velocity enhancement checklist, benefits of diversifying sports, and resources for injury prevention.

6 snips
Jun 11, 2024 • 17min
496 – Player Dynamics as a Measure of Skill
Exploring how player dynamics in soccer can be a measure of skill using attractors and repellors. Predicting player movements, assessing skill levels, and forecasting player strategies through a dynamical systems model.

35 snips
Jun 4, 2024 • 1h 23min
495 - An Ecological Approach to Submission Grappling/Jiu Jitsu Training w Greg Souders (JC40)
Greg Souders from Standard Jiu Jitsu discusses an ecological coaching approach in Jiu Jitsu Training. They explore simplifying learning, shared coaching experiences, grappling technique development, and the importance of invariance in movement space. The discussion also touches on effective teaching strategies and transformative learning through revisiting knowledge.
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