
Jacked Athlete Podcast
Jacked Athlete host, Jake Tuura, interviews those in the field of Athletic Performance, Muscle Hypertrophy, and Injury Reduction. You'll hear guests talk about strength & conditioning, vertical jump, knee pain, fat loss, muscle gain, and becoming a beast in general. Website: http://jackedathlete.com
Latest episodes

May 8, 2025 • 1h 9min
Patellar Tendons with Jordan Kilganon
Chapters 00:00 The Journey of a Dunker: Early Years and Injuries 03:02 Understanding Knee Pain: Causes and Solutions 06:09 Training Techniques: Isometrics and Warm-ups 09:00 Diet and Its Impact on Performance 12:00 Adapting to Age: Training Adjustments Over Time 15:05 The Mechanics of Jumping: Techniques and Styles 17:58 Warm-up and Cool-down: Importance in Training 20:52 Managing Volume and Intensity in Training 24:10 The Role of Recovery: Isometrics and Pain Management 26:51 Final Thoughts: The Future of Dunking and Training 33:07 Exploring Conservative Management Techniques 36:09 Plyometrics: Finding the Balance 39:30 Lifting Strategies for Injury Management 42:01 Understanding Muscle Imbalances 43:48 The Impact of Footwear on Knee Health 45:36 Managing Pain During Training 48:20 Common Tendon Issues in Dunkers 51:16 The Role of Weight Training in Dunking 53:12 Dealing with Tendon Blow-Ups 54:52 Preventing Tendon Injuries in Dunking 01:06:39 Final Advice for Dunkers with Knee Pain Takeaways Jordan Kilganon shares his journey as a professional dunker. Knee pain can be managed with proper training and techniques. Isometric exercises play a crucial role in injury prevention. Diet can significantly impact tendon health and performance. As athletes age, training methods must adapt to prevent injuries. Different jumping techniques can affect knee stress differently. Warm-ups are essential to prevent injuries, especially as one ages. Cool-downs can aid recovery and reduce next-day soreness. Managing jump volume and intensity is key to longevity in the sport. Listening to one's body is crucial for effective training. Jordan has never used injections or stem cells for recovery. He emphasizes conservative management and load management for knee issues. Plyometrics should be approached with caution, focusing on depth jumps and seated jumps. Single effort jumps are preferred over multi-effort jumps to avoid knee strain. Lifting techniques should be adjusted based on individual comfort and pain levels. Muscle imbalances should be addressed by strengthening weaker muscles rather than focusing solely on balance. Footwear can significantly impact knee health; personal preference varies. Pain management during training can involve isometric exercises and adjustments in technique. Common tendon issues arise from excessive jumping without proper recovery and management. Weight training is essential for dunkers to prevent injuries and improve performance. Jordan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordankilganon/?hl=en Jump Master: https://my.playbookapp.io/jordan-kilganon Jump Master X: https://www.jumpmasterx.com/home-copy Jordan on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@killerjunior23 Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-149-patellar-tendons-with-jordan-kilganon/

May 3, 2025 • 1h 9min
ACLs and Quad/Patellar/Hamstring Tendon Grafts with Derek Garza
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tendons and Personal Background 03:01 Understanding ACL Injuries and Rehabilitation 05:56 Graft Types: Autograft vs Allograft 08:56 Early Rehabilitation Strategies for ACL Surgery 11:53 Managing Swelling and Pain Post-Surgery 14:58 Progressing Rehabilitation: From Extension to Strength 17:59 Considerations for Graft Selection 21:01 Challenges with Quad Tendon Grafts 23:52 Hamstring and Patellar Grafts: Pros and Cons 32:06 Understanding Anterior Knee Pain and Rehabilitation 34:40 Strength Training in ACL Recovery 37:49 Introducing Plyometrics in Rehabilitation 39:28 Progressing Plyometrics and Deceleration Training 44:06 The Role of Physical Therapists in ACL Rehab 47:30 Knee Strategy vs. Hip Strategy in Rehabilitation 52:07 Re-injury Rates and Return to Sport Statistics 53:40 Education Gaps in Physical Therapy Schools 57:43 Improving ACL Rehabilitation Practices 01:01:17 Collaboration Between Therapists and Strength Coaches Takeaways Derek Garza is a licensed physical therapist with a background in athletics. He emphasizes the importance of education in ACL rehabilitation. The type of graft used in ACL surgery significantly affects recovery. Early intervention in rehabilitation can lead to better outcomes. Managing swelling is crucial for effective recovery post-surgery. Different graft types have unique healing timelines and considerations. Patient education is key to understanding the rehabilitation process. The strength of the graft can vary significantly based on the type used. Rehabilitation strategies should be tailored to the individual athlete. Understanding the risks and timelines of recovery can help prevent re-injury. The quality of physical therapy coaching is crucial for recovery. Limb symmetry index should be at least 90% for strength. Plyometrics should be introduced gradually in rehabilitation. Deceleration training is essential for athletes returning to sport. Many physical therapists lack knowledge in plyometric training. Re-injury rates for ACL injuries are alarmingly high. Education on plyometrics is lacking in physical therapy schools. Collaboration between therapists and strength coaches is vital. Athletes often shy away from loading their knees post-injury. Understanding knee and hip strategies can improve rehabilitation outcomes. Derek on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.derekpt/ Derek's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/drderekgarza?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafGwPFbijuM4jTC0YjCcgMH2cY3-masDnDR00SYM7QCAyHfVaMUxWiB4ij1GQ_aem_Yj9twOyX7Rp7Un4fBhKFGg Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-148-acls-and-quad-patellar-hamstring-tendon-grafts-with-derek-garza/

May 2, 2025 • 1h 27min
Patellar Tendons with Zach Jungels
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Zach Jungels and His Journey 03:06 The Patellar Tendon Injury Experience 06:09 Rehabilitation Challenges and Discoveries 08:56 The Search for Effective Treatment 11:50 Implementing the Jumper's Knee Protocol 15:10 Sharing Knowledge and Helping Others 18:00 Understanding Pain and Recovery 21:12 The Role of Communication with Coaches 23:47 Critique of Traditional Physical Therapy 27:02 Navigating the Rehab Process 29:50 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 37:04 Understanding Knee Pain: Partial Tears vs. Tendinopathy 40:00 The Role of Isometrics in Pain Management 46:04 Navigating Athletic Rehabilitation: Challenges and Solutions 48:02 Recent Knee Injury: Insights and Recovery 52:06 Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Knee Injuries 01:00:58 Finding the Highest Possible Entry Point in Rehab 01:08:02 Exploring the Science of Tendon Health 01:09:03 Understanding Tendon Structure and Aging 01:12:25 Pathology and Tendon Health 01:14:32 Environmental Factors in Tendon Health 01:17:10 The Impact of Weight Gain on Tendon Health 01:21:45 Dietary Influences on Tendon Pathology 01:26:50 Collagen Supplementation and Tendon Health Takeaways Zach Jungels experienced severe patellar tendon issues during his football career. His internship at the University of Minnesota was a transformative experience. He faced multiple injuries that complicated his recovery process. Zach developed a personalized jumper's knee protocol based on research and self-education. Communication with coaches was crucial for managing his injury and training. He critiqued traditional physical therapy methods for being too standardized and ineffective. Zach found success in using specific exercises that targeted his knee pain. He emphasized the psychological impact of dealing with chronic pain and injury. Zach's experience led him to help others with similar injuries through education and support. He believes in the importance of critical thinking in rehabilitation and recovery. Zach had to gauge his pain threshold during activities. Initial sharp pain in the knee indicated a possible partial tear. Tendinopathy symptoms developed over time with different sensations. Isometrics provided pain relief for Zach for several months. Athletes often face resistance from trainers when seeking alternative rehab methods. Zach's recent knee injury was a result of heavy eccentric loading. Effective rehab requires finding the highest possible entry point. Rehabilitation should focus on loading the muscle, not just the joint. Zach's approach includes using RPR and square one techniques. Rehab is about applying proven methods to individual cases. Ground substance in tendons consists of proteoglycans and water. Aging leads to a loss of spring-like properties in tendons. Pathology in tendons can develop long before pain is felt. General health significantly impacts tendon health. Weight gain adds extra load on tendons, increasing injury risk. High blood sugar can stiffen tendons due to sugar cross-links. Dietary choices can influence tendon health and recovery. Collagen supplementation may benefit tendon health, especially if deficient in nutrients. Environmental factors like circadian rhythms can affect tendon recovery. A holistic approach is essential for optimal tendon health. Zach on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jungels_sp/ Zach's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/jungels_sp?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacaGkjqM3BtO2cpjzsTeWTR24xN3RkpRLYohZUrVD4rFi8g4IY_rdU4khXRvA_aem_sF_ViokbqzsuGox7wTep8w Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-147-patellar-tendons-with-zach-jungels/

May 1, 2025 • 1h 27min
Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy with Luke Nelson
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Luke Nelson 02:55 Running Journey and Injuries 06:02 Understanding Hamstring Tendinopathy 08:47 Overuse vs. Overload in Tendon Injuries 12:08 Differential Diagnosis of Hamstring Pain 15:05 Role of Imaging in Diagnosis 18:03 The Understudied Area of Hamstring Tendinopathy 20:50 Managing Daily Activities and Pain 23:52 Rehabilitation Strategies for Hamstring Tendinopathy 31:56 Understanding Hamstring Tendon Rehabilitation 36:17 Strength Training for Runners 41:06 Assessing Muscle Atrophy in Injuries 44:29 Managing Running Frequency and Intensity 47:23 Incorporating Plyometrics in Rehab 49:05 Long-Term Recovery Expectations for Tendinopathy 53:24 Function vs. Pain in Rehabilitation 59:32 Targeting Muscle and Tendon Adaptations 01:00:35 Running Technique and Proximal Hamstring Assessment 01:05:25 Rehabilitation Strategies for Running Technique 01:10:03 Interventions for Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy 01:15:44 Field Sports vs. Distance Running Rehabilitation 01:17:27 Distal Hamstring Tendinopathy Insights 01:20:24 Metabolic Tendinopathy Considerations 01:23:11 Reflections on Knowledge and Experience Takeaways Luke Nelson is a sports and exercise chiropractor with 20 years of experience. He has run 10 marathons, with his latest being his fastest. Luke has experienced various running injuries, including hamstring tendinopathy. Hamstring tendinopathy can significantly impact daily life, not just athletic performance. The distinction between overuse and overload injuries is crucial in rehabilitation. Imaging is not always necessary for diagnosing tendinopathy. Hamstring tendinopathy is often under-researched compared to other tendon injuries. Daily activities, such as sitting, can exacerbate hamstring pain. A multifaceted approach is essential for effective rehabilitation. Strengthening exercises, particularly hamstring curls, are vital in recovery. Early hamstring rehabilitation focuses on building capacity and strength. Runners often lack strength training, impacting their recovery. Incorporating heavy lifting and compound movements is crucial. Plyometrics can enhance performance and aid in rehabilitation. Managing running frequency is essential for tendon recovery. Pain levels may not correlate directly with functional improvements. Capacity testing is vital for assessing recovery progress. Long-term recovery from tendinopathy can take over 12 months. Flare-ups during rehab are common and should be managed. Muscle and tendon adaptations should be targeted separately. Running technique significantly impacts proximal hamstring load. Trunk position and over-stride are critical factors in assessment. Flexibility in runners may not always correlate with performance. Rehabilitation strategies should focus on individual needs. Shockwave therapy has mixed results for tendinopathy treatment. Field sports present unique challenges in managing injuries. Distal hamstring tendinopathy is less common but still relevant. Metabolic conditions can trigger various tendinopathies. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential in rehabilitation. AI may play a future role in predicting running injuries. Luke on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportschiroluke/?hl=en Luke on Twitter: https://x.com/SportsChiroLuke Website: https://www.healthhp.com.au Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-146-proximal-hamstring-tendinopathy-with-luke-nelson/

Apr 29, 2025 • 47min
Overcoming Patellar Tendinopathy with Gibson Butler
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gibson Butler and His Journey 02:53 The Onset of Knee Pain and Its Impact 06:05 The Role of Hunting and Physical Activity 08:58 Exploring Treatment Options and Their Efficacy 11:46 The 10x Procedure and Its Aftermath 15:00 Discovering Effective Rehabilitation Strategies 17:54 The Importance of Isometric Exercises 21:05 Reflections on the Healing Journey 24:28 Isometric Exercises and Pain Management 30:10 Rehabilitation Journey and Athletic Goals 35:55 Hunting and Knee Pain Experiences 41:52 Advice for Managing Tendon Pain Takeaways Gibson Butler's knee pain began in adolescence during sports activities. Hunting in steep terrains exacerbated his patellar tendon issues. Sitting for long hours at work contributed to his knee pain. He explored various treatments including PRP and stem cell injections. The 10x procedure was recommended to address scar tissue in his tendon. Physical therapy played a crucial role in his recovery process. Isometric exercises helped him engage his quad muscle effectively. Gibson found that consistent loading improved his knee condition. He realized the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment for tendinopathy. Gibson's journey highlights the need for tailored rehabilitation strategies. Isometric exercises can provide immediate pain relief. Leg extensions have been particularly effective for Gibson. Rehabilitation is a gradual process that requires patience. Setting athletic goals can motivate recovery efforts. Flare-ups are a normal part of the healing journey. Strength training plays a crucial role in recovery. Listening to your body is essential during rehabilitation. Avoid falling for quick-fix solutions for tendon pain. Maintaining a healthy diet can support recovery. Engaging in activities you love, like hunting, can be challenging but rewarding. Gibson in Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gibsonbutler.596/ Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-145-overcoming-patellar-tendinopathy-with-gibson-butler/

Apr 26, 2025 • 1h 16min
Patellar Tendons with Tim Riley
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Performance Coaching and Jumper's Knee 02:59 Understanding Jumper's Knee: Personal Experiences and Misconceptions 05:53 The Evolution of Training Approaches for Jumper's Knee 08:52 The Importance of Quad Strength in Recovery 11:50 Deceleration and Its Impact on Jumper's Knee 15:10 Plyometric Progressions and Their Role in Recovery 17:57 Exploring Exercise Techniques: What Works and What Doesn't 21:02 The Role of Eccentric Loading in Tendon Health 24:09 Debunking Myths: The Truth About Leg Extensions 27:13 Conclusion: Key Takeaways and Future Directions 38:30 Exploring Effective Leg Exercises 41:34 Understanding Knee Pain and Rehabilitation 46:25 The Role of Isometrics in Knee Recovery 51:30 Addressing Patellar Tendon Issues 54:20 Navigating Athletic Pain and Recovery 01:06:30 Injury Management: Achilles and Rotator Cuff 01:14:23 Conclusion and Future Directions Takeaways Tim Riley is a performance coach working with various athletes. Jumper's knee is often misunderstood and mismanaged. Rest and ice were traditionally recommended for jumper's knee, but this approach is outdated. Quad strength is crucial for recovery from jumper's knee. Deceleration is a significant factor in developing jumper's knee. Plyometric progressions must be approached carefully to avoid aggravating knee pain. Not all exercises are effective for everyone; individual responses vary. Eccentric loading is essential for tendon health and recovery. Leg extensions can be beneficial but may not work for everyone. There is no magical exercise for knee pain; a comprehensive approach is necessary. Sissy squats can be more effective than leg extensions. Eccentric loading is crucial for knee rehabilitation. Isometric exercises can help with jumper's knee recovery. Athletes often need to reduce sport-specific activities to heal. Pain management requires honest conversations with athletes. Frequency of training can impact recovery from knee injuries. Achilles injuries require careful management and progression. Partial tears in tendons can be challenging to rehabilitate. Cultural attitudes towards pain vary among athletes. Consistency in rehabilitation exercises leads to better outcomes. Tim's Website: https://www.timrileytraining.com Tim's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timrileytraining/?hl=en Coach Em Up Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachemuppodcast/?hl=en Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-144-patellar-tendons-with-tim-riley/

Apr 25, 2025 • 47min
Patellar Tendon Case Study with Tommy Heights
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tommy Heights and His Journey 03:05 The Rise and Fall: From Vertical Jump Success to Injury 05:55 Navigating Recovery: The Role of Physical Therapy and Self-Discovery 08:53 The Turning Point: Lifestyle Changes and Their Impact 12:04 Rebuilding Strength: The Importance of Proper Loading and Management 14:47 Lessons Learned: Patience and the Journey to Recovery 17:46 The Importance of Warm-Up and Mindset in Training 21:03 Self-Experimentation: Finding What Works for You 25:52 Exploring Split Squats and Isometrics 28:04 Weight Loss Journey and Nutrition Insights 30:10 The Mental Challenge of Jumping 32:09 Understanding Jump Technique and Pain 34:01 Future Concerns and Mental Barriers 36:12 Jumping Mechanics and Personal Style 39:06 Dietary Choices and Recovery 40:48 Advice for Recovery and Commitment Takeaways Tommy Heights is a presentation designer and basketball enthusiast. He experienced a significant increase in vertical jump but faced knee pain due to overtraining. Tommy's injury was a result of accumulated fatigue and lack of load management. He sought various treatments, including physical therapy and online programs, to address his knee pain. Lifestyle changes, such as stopping drinking, had a positive impact on his recovery. Proper loading and management are crucial for injury recovery and performance. Patience is essential in the recovery process; rushing can lead to setbacks. Warming up is vital to prevent injuries and improve performance. Self-experimentation is key to finding effective exercises for individual needs. Tommy's journey highlights the importance of understanding one's body and training smart. Split squats and isometrics can provide an analgesic effect. Weight loss can be influenced by nutrition and lifestyle choices. Eating more can be beneficial for tendon health. Monitoring glucose levels may be important for tendon recovery. Mental barriers can affect performance in jumping. Jumping technique can vary significantly between individuals. Dietary choices, like being vegan, can impact recovery. Collagen supplementation may aid in tendon health. Progressive loading is essential for recovery. Commitment to recovery requires lifestyle changes. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tommy__heights/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tommy_heights Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-143-patellar-tendon-case-study-with-tommy-heights/

Apr 19, 2025 • 51min
Finger Tendons with Tyler Nelson
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Finger Tendons and Climbing Injuries 03:13 Understanding Finger Anatomy and Function 06:02 Common Finger Injuries in Climbers 08:53 Pathophysiology of Tenosynovitis 12:06 Rehabilitation Strategies for Finger Injuries 15:04 Comparing Tenosynovitis and Pulley Injuries 17:56 Managing Climbing Volume and Injury Prevention 25:38 Understanding Power Loss in Climbing 29:27 Tendon Adaptation Through Lifelong Loading 33:22 Rehabilitation Challenges for Climbers 35:05 The Role of Strength Training in Climbing 37:10 Tendon Adaptation Mechanisms 38:56 Controversies in Climbing Training Methods 41:07 Ultrasound in Diagnosing Climbing Injuries 42:22 Using Strain Gauges for Performance Measurement 43:53 Understanding Pulley Ruptures 45:36 Rehabilitation Techniques for Finger Tendons 47:14 Thumb Tendon Issues in Climbers 49:09 Future Directions in Climbing Research 50:07 Finding Professional Help in Climbing Rehabilitation Takeaways Tyler Nelson has a doctorate in chiropractic and a master's in tendon research. Rock climbers often experience finger injuries due to overtraining. Finger tendons are unique in their anatomy and function compared to other tendons. Tenosynovitis is a common injury among climbers, often due to too much stress too soon. Rehabilitation for finger injuries should focus on gradual load increase and proper technique. The A2 pulley is crucial for finger movement and is often injured in climbers. Climbers need to be aware of the specific loads their fingers endure during training. Managing climbing volume is essential to prevent injuries in climbers. The tendon sheath plays a vital role in the health of finger tendons. Understanding the mechanics of finger tendons can aid in better training and injury prevention. Power loss is a key metric in understanding climbing performance. Beginners should focus on skill development rather than overloading their fingers. Body weight significantly affects the load on tendons during climbing. Lifelong loading is crucial for tendon adaptations in climbers. Climbers often underload their tendons during rehabilitation, leading to prolonged recovery. Strength training is essential for injury prevention and performance enhancement in climbing. Tendon adaptations require significant muscle load and proper joint positioning. Controversial training methods are gaining popularity, but their efficacy is debated. Ultrasound is the gold standard for diagnosing climbing injuries and assessing tendon health. There is a growing interest in climbing research, leading to better understanding and treatment of climbing-related injuries. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c4hp/ Website: https://www.camp4humanperformance.com Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-142-finger-tendons-with-tyler-nelson/

Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
Hamstrings and Hamstring Tendons with Johan Lahti
Johan Lahti, a strength and conditioning coach with a PhD, dives deep into the intricacies of hamstrings and their role in athletic performance. He discusses the anatomical complexities that make hamstrings essential for speed and injury prevention. Lahti highlights the differences between proximal and distal injuries, the impact of fatigue on injury risk, and the necessity of targeted rehabilitation strategies. He also shares practical training recommendations, including the importance of trunk control and specific muscle activation techniques for optimal performance.

Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 6min
Rotator Cuff Tendons with Jared Powell
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy 03:13 Understanding Shoulder Pain and Its Complexities 06:04 The Shift from Impingement to Rotator Cuff Related Pain 09:00 The Role of Imaging in Shoulder Pain Diagnosis 11:58 Common Mismanagement in Shoulder Pain Treatment 15:10 Loading Programs for Rotator Cuff Rehabilitation 18:04 Positional vs. Energy Storage Tendons 20:59 The Nature of Rotator Cuff Tears 24:07 The Tipping Point to Pain in Rotator Cuff Pathology 32:53 Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears 39:26 The Role of Exercise in Recovery 46:47 Pain Management and Rehabilitation Strategies 55:19 Exploring the Mechanisms of Tendon Pain 01:00:18 The Importance of Tendon Stiffness Takeaways Rotator cuff related shoulder pain accounts for 70-80% of shoulder pain presentations. Pain is complex and multifactorial, making diagnosis challenging. The traditional impingement model is being challenged in favor of a broader understanding of shoulder pain. Imaging often does not influence management decisions for rotator cuff issues. Corticosteroid injections provide only short-term relief and can have negative effects on tendon quality. Exercise-based management is crucial for effective rehabilitation of shoulder pain. The rotator cuff tendons are positional and strain less than energy storage tendons. Rotator cuff tears are common and can exist without pain or dysfunction. Age is the biggest risk factor for developing rotator cuff pathology. Understanding the tipping point to pain is essential for effective treatment. Rotator cuff tears are often associated with poor vascular supply and degeneration over time. Metabolic factors like diabetes and smoking can increase the risk of rotator cuff tears. Exercise can be as effective as surgery for massive rotator cuff tears. Expectations of recovery significantly influence rehabilitation outcomes. Education about the commonality of tendon tears can help reduce patient anxiety. Pain during exercise can be tolerated up to a certain level without adverse effects. Sleeping positions can impact shoulder pain and should be modified accordingly. Adjunct treatments like shockwave therapy and corticosteroids have limited long-term benefits. Tendon stiffness is important for efficient force transfer, but its role in pain management is still being studied. Understanding the psychological aspects of pain can enhance recovery from tendon injuries. Website: https://www.shoulderphysio.com Twitter: https://x.com/JaredPowell12 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoulder_physio/?hl=en Notes: https://jackedathlete.com/podcast-140-rotator-cuff-tendons-with-jared-powell/