The Real Science of Sport Podcast

This discussion dives into whether cardio training undermines strength gains and reveals the surprising minimal interference in most athletes. It also tackles the pressures on tennis players, evaluating claims about increased injuries due to busy schedules and equipment changes. A stark look at doping prevalence comes to light, with self-reported rates suggesting a troubling honesty among athletes. Lastly, the intriguing concept of a new performance metric, W', is explored, shedding light on how athletes can optimize their training strategies.

Forty-year-old lawyer Andrew Feather hit the news headlines recently when he 'beat' Tadej Pogacar in an exhibition handicap uphill cycle race. Even though Feather may not have actually ridden the Pogi challenge faster than the world number 1 (he won by three minutes after getting a six minute head start with the rest of the amateur field), his performance was still staggering given that he is an amateur with all the pressures of a full-time job and a family eating into his time. Feather is arguably one of the most celebrated non-professionals in the world and, as a four-time British Hill Climb champion, has the palmares to prove it. In this interview, Feather shares his insights into training, racing and dropping weight when it matters.Support us on DiscourseAs Gareth mentioned, Discourse is our "sponsorship", our sole source of income. But it's way more than that - it's a community of experts and enthusiasts who share knowledge on everything sports science related. To become part of that, become a Patron of the site and join the conversation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the intricate dynamics of pacing and physiology with thrilling insights from recent marathons. Explore how small pacing errors can lead to significant consequences for elite runners, like Kiplimo's dramatic performance. Discover the fascinating implications of carbohydrate intake on endurance and the brain's role in regulating fatigue. Hear about tactical shifts for athletes like Femke Bol as they transition races. Plus, the surprising effects of heat and race environments on marathon success are unpacked in detail.

Delve into the intriguing world of bro science and learn how to differentiate fact from fiction in fitness advice. Explore the complex issues surrounding NCAA athlete trafficking, which raises questions of opportunity versus exploitation. Discover the latest findings linking contact sports to neurodegenerative diseases and the ethical implications of concussion detection methods. Finally, find out whether breakfast truly fuels morning workouts or if a good night's meal is enough.

Explore the fascinating evolution of player physiques in AFL and rugby, highlighting how professionalism has transformed these sports. Delve into the rapid development of women's rugby, alongside England's dominance at the World Cup. Get insights on the Ryder Cup drama, including crowd behavior and strategic analytics. The discussion also touches on controversial CAS decisions regarding athlete defenses and the alarming rise in ACL injuries, all underscored by a critical look at cycling's recent world championships.

The 2025 UCI World Road Cycling Championships in Rwanda showcased thrilling races and sparked debates about its significance. The hosts discuss firsthand experiences of Kigali’s atmosphere and the challenges riders faced with the course's cobbles. A heated conversation arises around Remco Evenepoel's bike troubles and his potential to challenge champion Tadej Pogacar in upcoming competitions. Topics also include the balance of dynamic racing, logistical concerns for teams, and the implications of hosting the championships in Rwanda, including tourism and sportswashing.

Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio, a seasoned South African cyclist, shares her insights before the Kigali World Cycling Championships. She discusses the unique challenges of racing at altitude and explains her preparation strategies, including managing insulin resistance and using supplements to enhance performance. Ashleigh reveals why the Kigali course aligns with her strengths and reflects on the fresh perspective gained from missing the Tour de France. With keen analysis of race dynamics, she also highlights the surprises that could emerge in both the men's and women's races.

Delve into the highs and lows of the Women's Rugby World Cup as predictions fly between England and Canada. Explore the intriguing world of athletes with DSDs and the controversies surrounding screening practices in women's sports. Celebrate standout performances from Tokyo, with highlights on rising stars like Beatrice Chebet and Jimmy Garcia. Discover why 400/800 meter doubles are becoming rare, and discuss the exciting unpredictability of marathon results. Plus, there's a fun chat about Harry Styles' impressive marathon run!

The final day of Tokyo 2025 brought unexpected twists and triumphs. Lilian Odira stunned everyone by outpacing favorite Keely Hodgkinson to win the women's 800m, marking a historic first for Kenyan women. Cole Hocker redeemed himself in the men’s 5000m with a thrilling late surge. Relays were just as dramatic, showcasing U.S. dominance and a surprising twist from Botswana in the men's 4x400m. The hosts reflect on a week filled with surprises and unforgettable performances that shaped the championships.

The middle-distance showdown featured Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet in a tactical women's 5000m, culminating in Chebet's explosive sprint finish. Meanwhile, the men's 800m delighted fans as Emmanuel Wanyonyi led a historic race, with multiple athletes achieving record times. Dramatic relay qualification saw major teams like the USA and Jamaica face unexpected exits. Additional highlights included Anna Hall's heptathlon triumph and a preview of key races on the final day, promising more thrilling action ahead.