The Real Science of Sport Podcast
Professor Ross Tucker and Mike Finch
World-renowned sports scientist Professor Ross Tucker and veteran sports journalist Mike Finch break down the myths, practices and controversies from the world of sport. From athletics to rugby, soccer, cycling and more, the two delve into the most recent research, unearth lessons from the pros and host exclusive interviews with some of the world's leading sporting experts. For those who love sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 24, 2024 • 36min
Paris 2024 Daily: All lights on Paris as the Olympics begin
The podcast delves into the start of the Olympics in Paris, highlighting Men's Football and Sevens matches. They discuss Tour de France highlights, launching a daily Games of the Day show. Equestrian controversies and the significance of the Olympic Games are explored. The hosts invite audience input and share insights on sports science.
Jul 23, 2024 • 1h 3min
Paris 2024: Are The Olympic Games Still Relevant?
Top US sports journalist Jon Wertheim joins the team to discuss the relevance of the Olympics in modern times. They explore the impact of past Olympic Games, the evolution of sports, and the commercialization of sporting events. The conversation reflects on historical events like the 1984 Olympics and the challenges faced by track and field sports. They also debate the importance of Olympic medals versus major tournaments in today's sports culture.
Jul 17, 2024 • 43min
Science of Sport Spotlight 6: How Pro Cyclists Use Carbon Monoxide / Pogacar's Superhuman Numbers
Discussion on how professional cyclists use carbon monoxide for performance enhancement, including its effects on hemoglobin levels and VO2max. Analysis of Tadej Pogacar's exceptional numbers at the Tour de France and the skepticism surrounding his performances. Exploring the history and skepticism around doping in cycling, along with the challenges and ethical implications of utilizing carbon monoxide in sports.
Jul 11, 2024 • 46min
Science of Sport Spotlight 5: The Research Studies That Shaped Sports Science Knowledge
Delving into influential sports science papers, the hosts discuss concepts like oxygen debt, lactate shuttle, and pacing strategies. They explore the central governor theory, controversial theories on exercise fatigue, and the regulation of pacing strategy in athletic competition. The podcast also challenges the efficacy of altitude training in elite athletes.
Jul 5, 2024 • 1h 26min
Paris 2024: How to Make an Olympic Athlete
Former Olympian and coach Mark Coogan shares insights on training elite athletes for Paris 2024 Olympics, discussing talent spotting, training strategies, challenges of altitude training, importance of trust in coaching, controversy around 'Super Shoes', and the future of track and field amidst doping concerns.
Jul 3, 2024 • 36min
Science of Sport Spotlight 4: Shining a Tour de France Light On Exercise In The Heat
Exploring exercise in the heat through the lens of the Tour de France, the podcast covers topics like physiological failures, brain responses to hyperthermia, and the yellow jersey battle. The analysis includes insights on Pogacar's record climb, challenges faced by cyclists in extreme heat, and strategies for heat adaptation and performance improvement.
Jun 27, 2024 • 28min
Science of Sport Spotlight 3: TDF 2024 Preview
Can Vingegaard recover from his accident to challenge Pogacar? Explore Tour de France physiology, performance requirements, and durability in cycling. Speculation and predictions add excitement to the TDF discussion and debate. Fantasy league predictions emphasize uncertainties in forecasting outcomes.
16 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 1h 19min
The Real Science Of Hydration During Exercise
Dr. Tamara Hew-Butler, expert in hyponatremia, debunks myths on hydration during exercise, warning against overhydration. The podcast explores the risks of diluting sodium levels through excessive fluid intake, the impact on performance, and the evolution of hydration strategies in marathon racing. It questions the influence of corporate sponsorship on sports science research and delves into speaker preferences on hydration and beverages.
Jun 20, 2024 • 29min
Science of Sport Spotlight 2: Kenya's doping induced credibility crisis
Kenyan athletes face a credibility crisis with widespread doping issues. The challenges of identifying sophisticated doping regimes among top Kenyan athletes are discussed. The government's efforts to combat doping are questioned. The culture of fear and silence in Kenyan athletics is explored. The podcast also delves into the physiological and psychological aspects of sports, organizing a tournament to select favorite Olympic sports.
38 snips
Jun 18, 2024 • 2h 5min
The Science and Art of Good Running
Dr. Geoff Burns, an elite ultra racer and sports scientist, discusses the biomechanics of running, the impact of super shoes, calf size on running economy, optimizing running form, shoe technology, and the complexities of athlete diversity in the world of running.
