The Real Science of Sport Podcast

Explore the shifting dynamics in middle-distance running as non-African athletes emerge victorious. Dive into the complex narratives of athletes switching national allegiances and the implications for sports. Uncover the contentious claims surrounding a trans cricketer's performance and its scientific backlash. Discuss the real causes of muscle cramps in endurance athletes, including the surprising benefits of pickle juice. Finally, navigate the trust issues plaguing sports science, emphasizing the need for transparency and ethics in research.

In this engaging discussion, Joe Warne, founder of the Sports Sciences Replication Center, uncovers the startling truth about sports science research. A staggering 72% of published studies fail to replicate, casting doubt on the reliability of findings. Joe shares insights on the systemic issues within academic publishing, including the 'publish or perish' mentality. He also critiques the lack of data sharing among researchers. Ultimately, he urges coaches and athletes to be skeptical of unverified claims and advocates for meaningful changes in scientific practices.

This discussion critiques the UCI's new cycling regulations, spotlighting their potential bias against female athletes. It dives into the challenges young female runners face when their talent stalls, unpacking societal pressures in youth sports. The hosts also explore how athletes' bodies shift between fat and carbohydrates during exercise, emphasizing the importance of long-term development. Additionally, they touch on the impact of technology on performance and the complexities of balancing training with competition in various sports.

Dagmar Whitaker, a leading authority on sport and skin cancer, serves as the vice president of the World Melanoma Society and president of the Melanoma Society South Africa. She discusses the elevated risks of melanoma for outdoor athletes and emphasizes the importance of early detection and effective prevention strategies, including sunscreen from a young age. Dagmar also explores the alarming increase in skin cancer rates, the economics of treatment accessibility, and the role of a healthy immune system in combating the disease.

This week features intriguing discussions on Beatrice Chebet's pursuit of the 5000m world record and the implications of Jannik Sinner’s recent French Open performance. The analysis questions whether Sinner's loss will benefit his career and tennis as a whole. A deep dive into the nutritional debate reveals that elite athletes still rely on carbohydrates, contradicting claims that fat can fuel their performance. The podcast also touches on the rise of paddle tennis and its engaging community vibe, highlighting its appeal across various skill levels.

Recovery in sports is a complex, multifaceted process that goes beyond physical healing. The hosts dive into how technology, like heart rate variability, plays a role in monitoring recovery. Nutrition and sleep are essential, as well as the pros and cons of cold water immersion methods. They also critique popular recovery products and discuss evidence-based practices versus industry marketing. Lastly, the importance of wearable tech in tracking recovery metrics is explored, emphasizing a balanced approach to long-term athletic performance.

Join DiscourseThe Spotlight is inspired and informed by our Discourse community. If you want to be part of that, sharing insights and inspiration with listeners, you can become a Patron of the Podcast here, make a monthly pledge, and the VIP room is yours to explore! It won't cost you even 2% of what the Enhanced Games are charging, and our advice actually works, and is safe!Show notesAt 1:09. In the Discourse Digest news roundup, Gareth and Ross tackle three stories where science and policy collide. First up, the Enhanced Games’ latest scheme—inviting people to pay $399/month for performance-enhancing drug guidance under the guise of anti-aging and health. Then, a look at World Boxing’s new sex screening policy for the women’s category: what the language really means, why it matters, and how sport might manage it. Finally, a compromise attempt in California where extra medals are awarded to navigate the inclusion of trans-identified males in girls’ sport—Gareth and Ross explore what’s gained and lost in that trade-offAt 25:39. A new Listener Lens feature this week comes from Discourse member Tony, who asks: how should you judge your warm-up before a race? Ross and Gareth explore what a warm-up really prepares—neuromuscular readiness, not just heart rate—and share insights from fellow Discourse members who’ve fine-tuned their routinesAt 33:35. And Finally (not quite today!), British ultra runner William Goodge is under fire after suspicious data emerged from his trans-Australia record attempt. Ross recalls a similar case he investigated, and the duo asks: why, in an age of abundant tracking tech, are we still debating whether these runs really happened?At 42:58. This week’s Center Stage belongs to one of the most dramatic finales in recent Grand Tour history. Simon Yates won the Giro d’Italia with a stunning final mountain stage raid—equal parts science, strategy, and surprise. Mike and Ross unpack the physiology and tactics behind Yates’ triumph: Did del Toro and Carapaz concede the maglia rosa because they hit their physiological limits, or were they undone by tactical missteps and pacing errors? And what about Wout van Aert, the satellite rider whose power and presence may have changed the race’s outcome? From record-breaking efforts to tactical stalemates, we break down the science that decided the GiroLinksNick Harris on the Enhanced Games dealWorld Boxing announce the sex screening policyTony's question about Warmup HR, as discussed in Listener Lens (Discourse members only)Story of Rob Young's questioned ultra performance, with a link to the report I co-wrote on itAnalysis of Yates' record performance on the FinestereDerek Gee's Strava file Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the intriguing concept of a physiological budget in training, highlighting how short bursts of intensity may lead to training 'bankruptcy.' Discover insights from the Giro d'Italia and how to balance exertion and recovery for optimal performance. Shift gears to rugby with the introduction of a 20-minute red card rule, allowing teams to substitute players mid-game. Analyze public reactions and the safety implications of this change, fostering a thought-provoking discussion on officiating and player conduct in the sport.

Ryan Sandes, a trail running legend from South Africa, shares his insight after finishing second in the grueling Cocodona 250-mile challenge. Alongside Sean Robson, they delve into the intense physical and mental demands of ultra-endurance racing. Topics include the significance of gut health and nutrition for performance, the necessity of mental resilience, and the vital role of crew support. They reflect on the camaraderie within the ultrarunning community and the evolution of such extreme races, highlighting personal experiences and preparation strategies.

This discussion takes a deep dive into the thrilling yet controversial aspects of cycling, particularly the chaotic gravel stages of the Giro d’Italia. It examines the challenges of concussion protocols in cycling and the need for better safety measures. The conversation doesn't shy away from the controversial peptide BPC-157, exploring its dubious healing claims and ethical implications. Finally, it critiques early talent identification in young athletes, advocating for a more inclusive approach to foster genuine growth.