Pacey Performance Podcast

In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob interviews Josh Nelson, the Director of Performance Science for the Atlanta Falcons. Josh shares his journey from a coaching family to his current role, discussing the key qualities he prioritizes when training quarterbacks. He delves into the differences between in-season and off-season training, the importance of upper body strength, and how he assesses movement quality. The importance of a multifaceted testing regime is highlighted, with reference to implementing training strategies guided by testing data. Josh also talks about managing backup quarterbacks, innovations in training such as blood flow restriction (BFR), and the significance of transferring training to the field. Quarterbacks should be treated as athletes rather than just specialists. In-season training focuses on maintaining practice availability and reducing injury risk. Isometrics play a crucial role in strength training for quarterbacks. Movement quality assessment is vital for quarterback performance. Backup quarterbacks need tailored training to prepare for unexpected opportunities. BFR has been a game changer in training efficiency and recovery. Creating benchmarks for performance metrics is essential for quarterback development. Transfer of training to on-field performance is a key focus.

In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob speaks to Alex Wolf who delves into the adaptation-led approach to strength training, contrasting it with traditional methods. Alex shares his extensive background in strength conditioning and discusses the importance of defining outcomes before selecting training methods. He emphasizes the need for specificity in training and provides examples of how to effectively target adaptations. The discussion also highlights the challenges and misconceptions surrounding traditional strength training practices, advocating for a shift in perspective towards outcome-driven training methodologies. In this conversation, Alex discusses the importance of shifting from traditional exercise advocacy to an outcome-led approach in strength and conditioning. He emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of physiological principles and the importance of clear objectives in training. The discussion also covers the training intention framework, the balance between technical skills and needs analysis, and the necessity of understanding muscle architecture for effective coaching. Main talking points: • Adaptation-led approach focuses on outcomes rather than just exercise • Specificity in training is crucial for effective performance enhancement • Understanding the intended outcome is essential before selecting training methods • Unexplained performance improvements are not sustainable or reliable • Machine-based training can be more effective than traditional barbell exercises in some scenarios • Understanding the physiology behind exercise selection is essential

Pete Burridge, a seasoned strength and conditioning coach at Bristol Bears Rugby, shares his extensive expertise in energy system development and training methodologies. He discusses the importance of aligning energy systems with game models and effective coach-player communication for optimal performance. Pete expresses skepticism about Zone 2 training in team sports and highlights innovative gamification strategies to boost athlete engagement. He also emphasizes the necessity of high-intensity training protocols and the role of heart rate monitoring in conditioning success.

This conversation delves into the critical aspects of growth and maturation in youth football with staff from the Brentford FC academy and industry experts, focusing on biological maturation, assessment methods, injury prevention, and talent identification. Our guests discuss their experiences and insights on how to effectively monitor and support young footballers through their developmental stages, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and education. This conversation delves into the innovative practices at Brentford FC regarding youth player development, focusing on bio-banding, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the holistic approach to nurturing young athletes. The panel discusses the importance of understanding growth and maturation, the challenges faced during player trials, and the significance of creating a supportive environment that prioritizes player experiences and well-being. They emphasize the need for tailored training loads and the integration of various developmental strategies to optimize performance and reduce injury risks. Main talking points: Genetics play a significant role in determining maturity Regular assessments are crucial for understanding growth patterns Strength training can positively impact bone density in young athletes Talent identification should consider biological age and maturity Bio-banding allows for tailored training based on physical maturity

In this episode of the Pace Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Tim Roberts, the sports medicine manager at the UFC Performance Institute in Mexico City, shares his extensive background in sports physiotherapy and the importance of multi-sport experience in developing as a clinician. He discusses the significance of strength profiling in MMA, the tiered diagnostic approach used at the UFCPI, and the technology and tools employed for athlete assessment. Tim emphasizes the need for tailored injury prevention programs that cater to the diverse backgrounds of athletes at the institute. In this conversation, Tim discusses the intricacies of performance analysis, injury prevention, and rehabilitation strategies in MMA. He emphasizes the importance of normalizing data for accurate performance insights, creating a culture of injury prevention among fighters, and the challenges faced in managing their rehabilitation. Tim shares insights on how to effectively communicate with athletes, the significance of maintaining their fighter spirit, and the structured approach to return-to-play progressions. He highlights the need for a balance between athlete safety and performance demands, ultimately fostering a supportive environment for fighters. Main talking points: Tiered diagnostics to help immediate programming and prevention Brain health assessments Finding a balance between care and toughness for fighter mentality Maintaining athlete involvement during recovery Building trust and connection with fighters Leveraging technology for athlete assessment

Tim McGrath, Senior Director of Player Health and Performance at the Washington Commanders and a PhD expert on ACL injuries, dives into the complexities of ACL rehabilitation. He emphasizes the need to combine art and science in recovery and discusses the critical role of biomechanical assessments in identifying risk factors. Tim critiques the traditional six-month return timeline, stressing a personalized approach based on athlete readiness. He also addresses common rehabilitation mistakes and the importance of understanding both physical and cognitive aspects to ensure a successful return to play.

Kyle Sammons, Coordinator of Sports Science and Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Arizona Cardinals, explores the innovative Beast Factory Framework he developed for athlete rehabilitation. He discusses the transformative power of single joint training over traditional multi-joint exercises, sharing insights on biomechanics and injury mechanisms. Kyle highlights the need for collaboration between strength coaches and medical professionals, and dives into the significance of understanding tendon injuries, especially in relation to Achilles rehabilitation and performance enhancement.

In this discussion, Chris Chase, the Director of Performance for the Memphis Grizzlies, shares his expertise on multidirectional speed and deceleration training in basketball. He highlights the critical role of deceleration in athletic performance and the integration of advanced technology like force plates for effective measurement. Chase advocates for progressive overload in training and emphasizes the balance of acceleration and deceleration exercises. He also explores the evolution of training methodologies and the role of functional training in athlete development.

Luke Sewell, first team rehab coach at Ipswich Town, shares his innovative strategies for aggressive hamstring injury rehabilitation. He emphasizes early loading and neuromuscular control to enhance recovery while minimizing reinjury risks. Sewell discusses the importance of tailoring rehab intensity using match data and establishing clear rehabilitation goals. His approach focuses on collaboration among medical staff, coaches, and players, ensuring effective communication and psychological support throughout the recovery process.

In this engaging discussion, strength and conditioning specialist Anthony Donskov shares insights from his 20 years of experience and PhD in hockey performance. He dives into reflexive eccentric training, emphasizing its benefits for athletic performance and injury prevention. Anthony outlines critical elements like stiffness and speed, as well as the importance of clear external cues for athletes. He also details a structured three-day training cycle, addressing programming strategies that balance heavy lifting and reflexive movements to maximize explosiveness while minimizing soreness.