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The Adaptable Athlete Podcast

Latest episodes

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Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 2min

The Power of Unstructured Learning in Coaching and Sport w/ Marianne Davies

Send us a textIn this episode, Javi sits down with Marianne Davies to explore a fascinating blend of topics, from adventure sports and ecological coaching to the power of language and learning. They dive into how language shapes perception, the unique relationship between teaching and learning, and the role of affordance perception in high-risk environments.Marianne shares her experiences in equestrian sports, adventure coaching, and expedition leadership, emphasizing how outdoor challenges can reshape the way we think, learn, and coach—not just in sports, but in life. They discuss the importance of exploration for both kids and adults, the evolving landscape of coach education, and why less structure in training could unlock greater potential in athletes.Key Topics Discussed:✅ How language serves as a constraint and shapes perception ✅ The Welsh concept of “dusky” and how it connects teaching and learning ✅ How adventure sports develop skill and decision-making under real consequences ✅ The unstructured nature of adventure sports vs. traditional coaching ✅ Why adults need adventure experiences just as much as kids ✅ The role of affordance perception and risk in skill acquisition ✅ The future of coach development and shifting from assessment-based coaching ✅ The power of movement and perception beyond traditional sportsResources & Mentions:📌 Marianne’s Podcast: River Tiger Podcast 📌 Marianne’s Website: Dynamics Coaching 📌 Follow Marianne on X (Twitter): @marianne_D1 📌 Follow Marianne on Instagram: @river.tiger 📌 Recommended Films: Valley Uprising (climbing culture) & Riding Giants (big wave surfing) 📌 The Cynefin Framework (for understanding complex problems)If you like today's episode, leave a review here....If you want to reach me directly, contact me on social media or shoot me @javier@emergentmvmt.com.Stay connected at The Adaptable Athlete for more great conversations.Want to take your coaching to the next level?...check our our courses at Emergence.Credits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav
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Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 12min

Analyzing the Transcendent Movement Skill of Lamar Jackson w/ Shawn Myszka

Send us a textIn this episode, we dive deep into the transcendent movement skill of Lamar Jackson with special guest Shawn Myszka!In addition to having partnered with 139 NFL athletes and many pro bowlers, Shawn also has been deeply investigating and writing about movement on his website Football Beyond The Stats for over a decade.  Every year Shawn names "Mover of the Year", and this year it was none other than Lamar Jackson! As a two-time Mover of the Year, Jackson’s ability to adapt, create, and solve problems on the field is unmatched. We explore what makes his movement so special, how he perceives the game at an elite level, and what coaches can learn from how he problem solves. Plus, we break down how weather, and pressure can impact performance at the highest level. Whether you coach football, basketball, soccer, or any other sport, this conversation will reshape how you think about skill development, movement, and coaching in complex environments. If you like today's episode, leave a review here....If you want to reach me directly, contact me on social media or shoot me @javier@emergentmvmt.com.Wanna be able to analyze film through an ecological lens? Check out our Skilled Movement Analysis Course.Episode Resources:2024 Mover of the Year - Lamar 2019 Mover of the Year - Lamar Shawn's twitter Shawn's paper on "(Re)conceptualizing Sport Movement"Shawn's American Football Paper Twitter video of Lamar Episode Webpage Credits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav
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5 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 58min

Unlocking Potential Through Creativity and Donor Sports w/ Brian Neff

Brian Neff, an athletic development coach for US Ski and Snowboard and mentor in the collegiate sector, shares his journey from music to coaching, highlighting the unexpected parallels between the two disciplines. He emphasizes the importance of creativity and adaptability in training, especially for Paralympic athletes. Key discussions revolve around innovative training methods for athletes with cerebral palsy and amputations, showcasing proven techniques that foster resilience and ownership. Neff's unique blend of music and sports enhances his coaching philosophy, making training both engaging and effective.
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Jan 1, 2025 • 11min

6 Minutes of Skill: What Information is Present in Your Training Environment?

Dive into the essence of skill acquisition as the hosts explore the critical information present in training environments. Learn why realistic conditions matter and how they can significantly enhance athlete performance. The discussion poses three thought-provoking questions that challenge traditional coaching methods and drills, encouraging a fresh perspective on effective training. Tune in for a quick yet insightful look at how to optimize your training approach!
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Dec 11, 2024 • 1h 21min

Challenging Tradition: The Case for Modernizing Hockey Coaching w/ Brian Gillam

Brian Gillam, a seasoned hockey player development expert with 39 years in the field, dives deep into the need for modernizing hockey coaching. He critiques outdated, linear methodologies, advocating for play-based learning to enhance athlete engagement. Gillam emphasizes the power of ecological coaching, which nurtures problem-solving and independence among players. By encouraging adaptability and creativity, he reshapes traditional practices, seeking to empower athletes through innovative approaches that embrace an environment of exploration.
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12 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 53min

Learning To Be An Ecological Coach w/ Rob Gray

In this engaging conversation, Rob Gray, a renowned professor at Arizona State University and author of "Learning to Be an Ecological Coach," dives into the evolving landscape of coaching. He dismantles the myth of 'muscle memory' and emphasizes the importance of adaptability in skill acquisition. Rob discusses the complexities of ecological coaching, the challenges coaches face, and the need to prioritize flexible training methods. Listeners will also gain insights into how personal experiences in sports can shape coaching philosophies and athlete development.
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Nov 13, 2024 • 8min

6 Minutes of Skill: Why We Don't Do Drills

Explore why traditional athletic drills might be holding you back. Learn how repetitive practices can reduce adaptability and decision-making skills. Discover a fresh approach that emphasizes diverse movement challenges to prepare athletes for real-life competition. In just six minutes, gain practical insights that can reshape your training methodology and boost performance!
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Oct 30, 2024 • 19min

Ask Emergence Q&A # 3

Send us a textOn this episode, I'll and we answer your skill acquisition questions!We asked you  on social media  to post any burning questions you had and you delivered!  Today, we answer those questions.  Some of the topics we covered include:Affordances - Can 2 athletes need unique solutions to solve the same problem?What about the phrase "let the environment speak first" - How can we use this framework?Stealing a pass in basketball -  What to look for?  How to anticipate?A HUGE thank you to everyone who participated! We really enjoy the interaction, and are always looking to create content that helps your craft!If you like today's episode, leave a review here....If you want to reach me directly, contact me on social media or shoot me @javier@emergentmvmt.com.Episode Resources:Emergence Website My episode w/ Andrew WilsonSkill Acquisition Specialist Paper  Credits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav
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Oct 16, 2024 • 43min

2024 Movement & Skill Acquisition Awards

Send us a textWelcome to today's show! On this episode, we announce our Movement & Skill Acquisition Award Winner!  This is something, we started last year, where we get to honor the best and brightest on the skill acquisition community.  We have categories:  Lifetime achievement award,  practitioner of the year award, and researcher of the year award.   Last year Kieth Davids, Alex Sarama, and Rob Gray won the awards respectively.  This year Shawn and Tyler got the privilege of honoring the 2024 award winner!If you like today's episode, leave a review here....If you want to reach me directly, contact me on social media or shoot me @javier@emergentmvmt.com.Episode Resources:Emergence Website Duarte on X Fabian on XCarl on X Skill Acquisition Specialist Paper Credits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io Let's Chat!Twitter: @thecoachjavIG: @thecoachjav
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6 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 1h 10min

Reconceptualizing Talent Development & Challenging Coaching Traditions and w/ Stuart Armstrong

Stuart Armstrong, an expert in skill acquisition and coaching, shares insights from his extensive experience in youth sports. He discusses the need to challenge traditional talent development views using ecological psychology. The conversation dives into the ethics of coaching, emphasizing the importance of empathy and children's rights. Stuart also highlights the value of collaboration and reflects on the shift toward adaptive and learner-centered coaching methods. His upcoming presentation at the Sport Movement Skill Conference promises to offer even more groundbreaking ideas.

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