The Real Science of Sport Podcast

This discussion dives into the intense world of athletics, spotlighting rivalries from recent races and predictions for the Tokyo World Championships. The debate on doping takes center stage, questioning whether coaching staff should face lifetime bans and unraveling the complexities of accountability. A controversial standoff in cycling addresses athlete safety versus data tracking, while innovative LED mouthguards emerge as a new tool for managing impacts in rugby. All this combines to paint a vivid picture of today's sports landscape.

The discussion kicks off with a look at historic world records, including Jonathan Edwards' formidable triple jump and Mondo Duplantis' recent pole vault feat. Insights into the upcoming Diamond League highlight key athletes preparing for record-breaking attempts. The conversation shifts to innovative safety technology in women's rugby, featuring smart mouthguards to monitor head impacts. Finally, the podcast dives deep into Zone 2 training debates, unraveling myths and emphasizing personalized approaches to optimize athletic performance.

Brendon Gurd, a muscle physiologist at Queen's University and co-author of 'Much Ado About Zone 2', breaks down the real science of Zone 2 training. He clarifies common misconceptions and reveals that the benefits are overstated. Gurd discusses how higher intensity workouts may actually drive better adaptations for cardio fitness and fat metabolism. Listeners learn about the complexities of exercise intensity and the importance of engaging in sports in enjoyable ways for all fitness levels.

The podcast dives into the heated debate around intentional weight loss in women's cycling, spotlighting the balance between performance and health risks. It also features a stunning U16 World Record set by teen athlete Cooper Lutkenhaus and discusses the pressures young stars face. Rivalries heat up on the track, with sprinters Lyles and Bednarek engaging in a contentious exchange. Plus, there's a critical look at the growing trend of IV drips in athletics, questioning their effectiveness and safety, while highlighting the lack of scientific backing and potential doping concerns.

Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio, a seasoned professional cyclist and multiple champion, shares her insights on the evolving landscape of women's cycling. She discusses how the COVID pandemic spurred significant growth in the sport, especially through virtual competitions like Zwift. Moolman-Pasio highlights the challenges female cyclists face, including hormonal impacts on performance and the unfair bike weight regulations. She underscores the importance of holistic athlete care and the need for cultural shifts within the sport to support women's cycling effectively.

The podcast examines the recent disappointments of the men's Tour de France while celebrating the thrilling dynamics of the Women's Tour. It explores critical issues like player safety and the evolving culture around concussions in cycling and rugby. The conversation dives into the complexities of training metrics, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted perspective on athlete fatigue and performance. Finally, it highlights the importance of community engagement in fitness, showcasing how gamified activities can boost physical activity for all ages.

Confused about cycling metrics? The hosts break down Strava's fitness score and its underlying numbers. They explore how technology reshapes fitness measurement and training management. Discover the internal vs. external load differences and the critical role of power output, heart rate, and perceived exertion. Personal experiences illustrate the interplay of fitness and fatigue, showcasing how to optimize training and recovery. With humor and insights, you’ll understand how to navigate your fitness journey more effectively!

The podcast navigates the turbulent waters of doping in sports, focusing on a high-profile athlete's diuretic case and the media's role in keeping the sport honest. It raises tough questions about the fairness of doping inquiries and delves into athletes' struggles with integrity amidst scrutiny. Discussion also shifts to the evolving dynamics of elite cycling rivalries and the potential of modifying sports equipment to better serve female athletes. Insights from a study on running injuries challenge established training norms and urge a reevaluation of training practices.

Kelly McNulty, a postdoctoral researcher specializing in female physiology, and Sarah Massey, managing director for the Women's Rugby World Cup, discuss the menstrual cycle's complex impact on athletic performance. They tackle the relationship between hormones and training, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches rather than general theories like cycle syncing. The conversation also highlights the importance of menstrual health education and supportive environments for female athletes, aiming to empower young women in sports and promote inclusivity.

This podcast delves into the shocking provisional suspension of marathon record holder Ruth Chepng’etich due to doping allegations. It examines the skepticism surrounding her performance and the implications for integrity in sports. The discussion highlights the roles of agents and coaches, raising critical questions about accountability. It further reflects on the cycle of hope and heartbreak in athletics, challenging listeners to consider the authenticity of what they see in competitive events. Is it time to question everything?