🎙️ From Olympic Marathoner to Physiology Researcher: Jess Piasecki on Female Health and Performance In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jess Piasecki — Olympic marathon runner and associate professor specialising in female physiology. Jess shares her unique journey from elite athlete to academic, reflecting on the transition from shorter races to the marathon distance, overcoming injury setbacks, and staying motivated throughout her career. We dive deep into the science of female athletic performance, covering crucial topics like menstrual health, low energy availability, and amenorrhea, and how they impact training, recovery, and long-term health. Jess also highlights the benefits of cross-training, the importance of nutrition, and how athletes can maintain both mental resilience and physical well-being in high-performance environments. Whether you're a competitive athlete, a coach, or simply passionate about sports science and women's health, this conversation is packed with practical insights and evidence-based advice. 🔑 Topics Covered: • The realities of being a female endurance athlete • Navigating injuries and maintaining motivation • The role of cross-training in recovery • Understanding energy availability and menstrual health • Why regular cycles matter in sports performance • Mental health, body image, and athlete well-being • Research-backed advice for long-term health in sport 📍 Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & Jess Piasecki’s Background 05:10 – From University Running to the Olympic Stage 08:16 – Injury Setbacks and Staying Motivated 14:05 – Cross-Training: A Vital Recovery Tool 17:17 – Female Physiology: What Every Athlete Should Know 31:08 – Bone Health, Hormones & Long-Term Well-being 42:35 – Nutrition, Energy & Performance 51:56 – Understanding Menstrual Health in Athletics 01:03:23 – Empowering Female Athletes Through Knowledge 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this episode insightful! #FemalePhysiology #MarathonRunning #SportsScience #AthleticPerformance
In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Kate Spilsbury—a former colleague, friend, and leading performance physiologist. Kate's journey from nutrition to physiology is both inspiring and instructive, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome her to the show. We explore the critical moments in athlete preparation—particularly tapering and peaking—and why getting them right can lead to breakthroughs or breakdowns in performance. Drawing on her experience in both British athletics and now high-performance sport in Australia, Kate shares deep insights into how training systems compare, how to support athletes through the nerves of tapering, and how individualized approaches are key to unlocking potential. This conversation is rich with reflections from her research (including Kenyan vs. British runners), her experience leading into the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, and her wisdom on monitoring, recovery, and pacing strategies that really work. ✅ Key Topics ✔️ Tapering and peaking for optimal performance ✔️ Transition from nutrition to physiology ✔️ High performance systems in the UK vs. Australia ✔️ Managing training loads and athlete readiness ✔️ Monitoring tools: HRV, pacing, and athlete feedback ✔️ The psychological side of tapering ✔️ Individualization in endurance and team sports ✔️ Environmental factors: heat, altitude, geography ✔️ Recovery strategies and their effectiveness 🕒 Chapters 00:00 – Reconnecting and Career Path 02:51 – Transitioning to High Performance Management 06:03 – Comparing Athletic Systems: Australia vs UK 08:50 – The Importance of Tapering and Peaking 12:06 – Understanding the Athlete's Mindset 15:01 – The Risks of Inadequate Tapering 18:10 – Strategies for Effective Peaking 20:52 – Guidelines for Tapering and Peaking 24:06 – Insights from Research on Training Loads 27:18 – Tapering Strategies in Endurance Sports 29:54 – Individualization in Team Sports Training 33:04 – Recovery Methods and Their Impact 36:05 – Environmental Considerations in Tapering 39:11 – Monitoring Athlete Responses During Tapering 41:54 – The Importance of Individualization in Tapering 46:57 – Pacing Strategies and Their Relation to Tapering Kate’s knowledge is exceptional—and her honesty about the real-world complexities of performance makes this a must-listen for coaches, sports scientists, and anyone working in elite sport. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and join the conversation. #SupportingChampions #SteveIngham #KateSpilsbury #Tapering #Peaking #EnduranceSports #HighPerformance #Olympics #SportsScience #TeamSports #AthleteMonitoring #Recovery #Physiology
In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, Steve Ingham is joined by Tim Stevenson – a seasoned strength and conditioning coach – to explore the complex mechanics of the shoulder, injury prevention, and how to build resilient, high-performing athletes. Drawing from over 16 years of experience and his work with elite performers like Charlotte Henshaw, Tim shares a philosophy that moves beyond traditional training—focusing instead on dynamic stability, movement quality, and control-based strength. Tim sheds light on why the shoulder is such a vulnerable joint, and how athletes can strengthen it not just through brute force, but through mobility, variation, and intentional movement. We explore how rehabilitation should be integrated with performance training, and how a holistic approach is essential for long-term fitness, injury resilience, and sustained enjoyment in sport. 🔍 Key Takeaways ✅ The shoulder’s complexity requires dynamic, not just isolated, strength. ✅ Rehab and S&C shouldn’t be separate—they must be integrated. ✅ Varied movement patterns and calisthenics build “bulletproof” shoulders. ✅ Strength is the armour—but control and awareness are the strategy. ✅ Movement quality matters more than just lifting heavy. 📌 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tim Stevenson and His Journey 03:05 The Complexity of Shoulder Injuries 05:47 Rehabilitation vs. Strength Training for Shoulders 09:14 Case Study: Charlotte Henshaw’s Journey 11:58 Dynamic Stability in Shoulder Training 14:57 Rethinking Traditional Strength Methods 17:48 Building Bulletproof Shoulders 21:00 Integrating Rehab with S&C 24:05 The Role of External Rotation 26:59 Exploring Training Alternatives 38:33 The Importance of Shoulder Mechanics 41:05 Integrating Control-Based Movements 42:30 Exploring Athleticism and Strength 44:41 Functional Performance Goals 46:38 Movement vs. Strength 48:56 Long-Term Fitness Philosophy 53:33 Variety and Longevity in Training 54:58 Practical Training Recommendations 01:01:17 Mobility Integration 01:04:22 Cross-Training for Shoulder Health 01:07:10 Final Thoughts 🎧 Whether you’re an athlete, coach, physio, or simply someone looking to future-proof your training, this episode with Tim Stevenson offers a compelling look into the science and practice of building strong, mobile, and resilient shoulders. 🔗 Learn more about Tim’s work at: https://www.dynamicshoulders.com/ 🎓 Use code SC10 for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses: https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#courses #StrengthTraining #ShoulderHealth #Rehabilitation #InjuryPrevention #AthleteDevelopment #SupportingChampions #DynamicStability #MobilityTraining
In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, I’m joined by Lisa Trainor – a former varsity athlete turned researcher – to explore the evolving landscape of athlete well-being. Drawing from her own experiences and her academic work, Lisa discusses how injury and major disruptions like the postponement of the Tokyo Games can influence an athlete’s psychological state. She offers insight into the distinction between hedonic (feeling good) and eudaemonic (functioning well and finding purpose) well-being, and how each contributes to sustainable elite performance. We unpack key themes including the importance of psychological safety, the value of self-confidence and identity in sport, and how athletes can remain fulfilled even when faced with setbacks. Lisa provides a compelling case for redefining success beyond medals and rankings – encouraging us to view thriving and performance not as opposites, but as intertwined outcomes of a well-supported sporting experience. 🔍 Key Takeaways: ✅ Well-being isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about functioning meaningfully. ✅ Injury and disruption can offer valuable moments for reflection and growth. ✅ Athletes may perform without well-being, but it’s not sustainable long-term. ✅ Psychological safety is a foundational component of thriving environments. ✅ Pursuing purpose and personal agency is central to eudaemonic well-being. 📌 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Lisa Trainor 03:06 Injury, Well-Being, and Athlete Support 05:53 Coping with the Tokyo Games Postponement 08:49 Understanding Well-Being: Hedonic vs. Eudaemonic Perspectives 11:45 The Role of Well-Being in Elite Athlete Performance 15:03 Exploring Athlete Well-Being Components 17:59 The Interplay of Eudaemonia and Hedonia in Sport 21:00 Research Insights on Athlete Well-Being 23:55 Conclusion and Practical Applications 35:49 Understanding Athlete Well-Being 42:13 The Role of Performance in Well-Being 50:51 Purpose and Fulfillment in Sport 57:09 Psychological Safety and Relationships 01:05:21 Developing Eudaemonic Well-Being 🎧 Whether you’re an athlete, coach, psychologist, or someone passionate about high performance and mental health, this conversation with Lisa offers rich insight into the deeper layers of what it means to thrive in sport. 🔔 Subscribe, like, and share to stay updated on future episodes. 🎓 Use code SC10 for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses: https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#courses #AthleteWellbeing #SportsPsychology #MentalHealth #Eudaemonia #HighPerformance #SupportingChampions
In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, I’m delighted to welcome Dr. Richard Ferguson to the show. Richard is one of the leading figures in exercise physiology, and today we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of blood flow restriction (BFR) training. We explore the science behind BFR, how restricting blood flow can stimulate remarkable strength and endurance adaptations, even with lighter loads. Richard shares his insights into BFR’s role in rehabilitation, athletic performance, and recovery, helping us understand both the opportunities and the caveats of applying this method. From the mechanisms driving hypertrophy and mitochondrial development, to the mental challenges BFR presents athletes, Richard brings a wealth of research, experience, and practical advice. If you're curious about enhancing adaptation, optimising recovery, or just exploring cutting-edge sports science, this conversation is packed full of insight. 🔍 Key Takeaways: ✅ Blood Flow Restriction enhances muscle growth and endurance adaptations. ✅ Recovery methods should aim to stimulate, not suppress, adaptation. ✅ Practical protocols for strength, endurance, and rehab contexts. ✅ The mental challenge of BFR is as important as the physical. ✅ Emerging applications of BFR for recovery need further exploration. 📝 Complete Richard's Survey: https://murdochuni.syd1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6LnHZWEFgiUj794 📖 Research Articles: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26391312/ https://sylvanadamsports-tau.org.il/en/ https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/EP089280 https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/japplphysiol.00982.2020 📚 Learn more about Supporting Champions Courses – use code 'SC10' for 10% off: https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#courses 📌 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Blood Flow Restriction Training 02:12 Understanding Recovery and Adaptation 08:04 Essentials of Blood Flow Restriction 12:29 Strength, Hypertrophy, and Rehabilitation 31:42 Endurance Training with Blood Flow Restriction 36:08 Exploring Blood Flow Restriction Protocols 38:55 Training Adaptations and Athlete Experience 41:58 Endurance Adaptations and Mechanisms 44:47 Incorporating Blood Flow Restriction in Training 48:14 Blood Flow Restriction for Recovery 55:59 Current Use and Future Directions of Blood Flow Restriction 👀 Whether you're a coach, athlete, physiologist or simply fascinated by the evolving edge of training science, this episode will give you ideas to challenge and improve your performance strategies. 🔔 Subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with more insightful discussions on coaching, performance, and innovation! #BloodFlowRestriction #BFRTraining #ExercisePhysiology #SportsScience #AthleteRecovery #StrengthTraining #EnduranceAdaptation #SupportingChampions #RichardFerguson
In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, I’m joined by author, journalist, and endurance expert Alex Hutchinson to discuss his latest book, The Explorer’s Gene. This conversation dives into the why behind human exploration — what drives us to seek the unknown, how our genetics shape our urge to push boundaries, and what this means for athletes, adventurers, and everyday decision-makers alike. We explore the intersection of science, adventure, and personal growth, looking at everything from the dopamine receptor gene and novelty-seeking, to the hero’s journey and the paradox of effort. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or someone curious about what makes humans tick, there’s something here for you. 🧠 Key Takeaways: Exploration is a deep-rooted human trait shaped by both genetics and environment The dopamine receptor gene is linked to novelty-seeking behaviour Endurance sports are a microcosm for understanding exploration and risk Balancing exploration (trying new things) and exploitation (refining skills) is vital The free energy principle helps explain our drive to minimize surprise and seek reward Effort and struggle add meaning to experience Exploration connects us more deeply to our environment and ourselves The hero’s journey offers a compelling metaphor for personal growth Ethical questions persist around doping and the boundaries of performance 📚 Buy Alex Hutchinson’s new book, The Explorer’s Gene: 👉 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Explorers-Gene-Challenges-Flavors-Blank/dp/0063269767/ 🎓 Advance your performance career with Supporting Champions Courses: Use code SC10 for 10% off all online courses 👉 https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#courses ⏱ Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Alex Hutchinson 03:08 – Journey from Physics to Endurance Journalism 06:25 – The Intersection of Science and Endurance Sports 10:20 – Lessons from Journalism School 14:17 – The Importance of Audience in Science Communication 18:38 – Navigating Scientific Research and Its Implications 23:36 – Evolving Perspectives on Ergogenic Aids 29:43 – The Role of Context in Athletic Performance 32:33 – Exploring 'The Explorer's Gene' 36:05 – Personal Connections to Endurance 38:47 – The Complexity of Exploration 41:35 – The Hero's Journey in Endurance 44:47 – The Rhythm of Explore and Exploit 52:58 – Genetics of Exploration 56:18 – The Explorer's Gene: An Introduction 01:01:07 – Migration Patterns and Genetic Influence 01:08:20 – Risk-Taking and Elite Athletes 01:12:02 – The Free Energy Principle Explained 01:18:30 – The Effort Paradox and Meaning in Struggle 01:24:39 – The Case Against Doping in Sports 01:31:17 – Exploration and the Meaning of Sport Thanks for tuning in — don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts below. Let’s keep exploring what makes us human. #SupportingChampions #AlexHutchinson #ExplorersGene #HumanPerformance #Endurance #SportsScience #FreeEnergyPrinciple #HeroJourney #SteveIngham #Dopamine #RiskTaking #PersonalGrowth #Adventure
🎙️In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, Steve Ingham welcomes Kate Hays, a leading sports psychologist and author of How to Win: Lessons in Success from the Frontline of Performance Psychology. Kate shares her expertise on high performance psychology, exploring the essential building blocks of team success, the significance of team identity and purpose, and how pressure training prepares individuals for high-stakes situations. She also discusses psychological safety, behavioural codes, and a strength-based approach to thriving in elite environments. 📖 Get Kate's new book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Win-performance-psychology-potential/dp/0008698287 Key Themes: ✅ Applying performance psychology beyond sport ✅ Balancing challenge and support in high-performance settings ✅ Why defining success goes beyond just winning ✅ The role of preparation, autonomy, and resilience in elite environments ✅ Ten principles for thriving in high-performance cultures Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Book Overview 03:05 – The Purpose of Writing the Book 05:48 – Building Blocks of Team Performance 09:00 – Understanding Team Identity and Purpose 12:00 – The Importance of Method and Goals 15:03 – Behavioural Codes and Team Dynamics 17:50 – The Role of Pressure Training 21:09 – Defining Success Beyond Winning 23:57 – The Balance of Challenge and Support 26:45 – The Importance of Autonomy in Performance 29:58 – The Pressure of Performance 35:23 – Understanding High Performance 39:32 – Principles of Thriving 41:17 – Creating Thriving Environments 46:11 – Ten Principles for Thriving 49:12 – Psychological Safety and Learning 01:01:06 – Final Thoughts on High Performance Use code 'SC10' for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses. https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#courses 🔔 Subscribe for more expert conversations on performance, psychology, and leadership! #SportsPsychology #HighPerformance #MentalHealth #Leadership #Thriving #TeamSuccess #PsychologicalSafety #SuccessBeyondWinning
🎙️ What training model improves VO2max and time trial performance for recreational and competitive endurance athletes? In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, Steve Ingham is joined by Michael Rosenblat, an expert in exercise science with a fascinating journey from triathlon coaching to physiotherapy. Michael shares his insights into training intensity distribution models, drawing from his recent network meta-analysis on how different approaches impact endurance athletes. They discuss the complexities of polarized versus pyramidal training models, the methodological challenges of conducting meta-analyses, and the importance of considering individual variability when designing training programmes. Michael also highlights the significance of VO2 max outcomes, the role of network meta-analysis, and why consistency and recovery are fundamental to athletic performance. Throughout the conversation, Michael emphasizes the need for rigorous methods in sports science research and how understanding gender differences and training intensity thresholds can shape more individualised training approaches. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or researcher, this episode offers valuable insights into optimising training strategies and understanding the science behind performance improvement. 🔍 Key Takeaways: ✅ Training intensity models impact performance differently, with polarized training often benefiting competitive athletes and pyramidal training suiting recreational athletes. ✅ VO2 max outcomes showed no significant differences between training models, highlighting the importance of individual responses. ✅ Methodological rigor in exercise science research is crucial to producing reliable and applicable findings. ✅ Consistency and recovery are essential components of long-term athletic success. ✅ Future research should focus on individualised approaches to training intensity and performance. 📌 Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:00 - Research Journey and Academic Affiliations 05:52 - Overview of the Meta-Analysis Paper 09:11 - Understanding Network Meta-Analysis 11:55 - Participant Characteristics and Sample Size 14:57 - Training Intensity Distribution Models 17:59 - Decoding Intention to Treat vs. Per Protocol Analysis 27:31 - Understanding Quasi-Experimental Designs 30:02 - Methodological Limitations in Training Studies 32:30 - Analyzing Gender Differences in Athletic Performance 34:08 - Exploring VO2 Max Results 39:14 - Individual Variability in Training Responses 47:01 - Comparing Training Models for Different Athlete Levels 55:44 - Practical Recommendations for Athletes 57:01 - Future Directions in Training Research 📖 Read more on Michael’s paper here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39888556/ https://sylvanadamsports-tau.org.il/en/ 🔔 Subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with more insightful discussions on performance, training, and sports science! Use code 'SC10' for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses Supporting Champions Courses #ExerciseScience #TrainingIntensity #MetaAnalysis #EnduranceAthletes #VO2Max #AthleticPerformance #SportsMedicine #SupportingChampions #MichaelRosenblat
🎙️ Using play to improve performance with Richard Cheetham In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, Steve Ingham is joined by Richard Cheetham, a senior fellow in sports coaching, to explore the evolving landscape of coaching. From learner empathy and innovative coaching methods to the critical role of play in athlete development, Richard shares his insights on what truly makes coaching effective. They discuss how early experiences in sport shape long-term engagement, why coaching should balance sports science with emotional connection, and how playfulness fosters creativity and performance. Richard also reflects on cross-sport learning, the challenges posed by AI in coaching, and why the best coaches are those who remain curious and adaptable. 🔍 Key Takeaways: ✅ Coaching is about understanding the struggle of the learner. ✅ Play should be integrated into coaching, not just used as a reward. ✅ Innovative coaching methods create engaging learning environments. ✅ Sports science should support, not dominate, the coaching process. ✅ Authentic engagement and creativity are crucial for athlete development. 📌 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Richard Cheetham and His Journey 03:11 Innovative Coaching Methods and Learner Empathy 05:45 The Evolution of Coaching: Expectations and Engagement 09:09 Balancing Sports Science and Coaching 11:58 The Role of Play in Coaching 24:04 Defining Play and Its Importance in Sports 28:57 The Influence of Early Experiences in Sports 34:24 Creating a Playful Environment for Learning 38:42 Innovative Approaches to Coaching 44:06 Divergent Thinking and Cross-Sport Learning 49:21 The Future of Coaching in an AI World 54:14 The Power of Playful Engagement 📖Read more on Richard here: Richard Cheetham - University of Winchester 🔗Connect with Richard here: (3) Richard Cheetham MBE | LinkedIn 👀 Whether you're a coach, athlete, or simply passionate about performance, this conversation will challenge the way you think about learning, engagement, and the true purpose of sport. 🔔 Subscribe, like, and share to stay updated with more insightful discussions on coaching, performance, and beyond! Use code 'SC10' for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #Coaching #SportsPsychology #LearnerEmpathy #InnovativeCoaching #PlayInSport #AthleteDevelopment #RichardCheetham #SupportingChampions
🎙️ Parenting Talent | Supporting Champions Podcast In this episode, Dr. Steve Ingham welcomes Valeria Eckardt to explore the vital yet complex role of parents in youth sports. Parents are more than just supporters—they shape a child's sporting experience as role models, interpreters, and motivators. But where’s the line between support and pressure? How can parents communicate effectively with young athletes? Valeria shares insights into emotional intelligence in sports parenting, the impact of social media on young athletes, and the evolving role of parents as children progress through their sporting journey. From early skill development to elite competition, this discussion highlights the challenges parents face and the strategies they can use to foster a healthy, supportive, and balanced sporting environment for their children 🔍 Key Takeaways: ✅ Parents play a crucial role in shaping a child's sports experience. ✅ The balance between support and pressure is complex and individualized. ✅ Emotional intelligence and adaptability are key to positive parental involvement. ✅ Communication between parents, coaches, and children is essential for reducing stress. ✅ Social media creates additional challenges and expectations for young athletes. 📌 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Parenting in Sport 01:09 The Role of Parents in Sports 06:29 Understanding Parental Involvement 11:14 The Balance of Support and Pressure 18:16 Navigating Support and Pressure 22:06 Effective Communication Strategies 30:17 The Complexity of Sports Parenting 31:08 Navigating Parental Involvement in Sports 39:24 The Impact of Social Media on Young Athletes 43:43 Supporting Parents in Competitive Sports 51:52 Evolving Parental Roles Through a Child’s Sports Journey 🔍 Find more on Valeria’s work: linktr.ee/valeria.eckardt Instagram: @eckardt_psychologie Bluesky: @valeriaeckardt.bsky.social Linkedin: @valeria-eckardt Additional resources on parenting in sports: SportParent EU: http://www.sportparent.eu/en/ Handbook for parents in youth football academies (German Football Association & German Soccer League): https://media.dfl.de/sites/2/2024/01/DFL_Info_Elternbroschuere_EN.pdf (English language!) Sport Parent Guide (Utah State University): https://youthsportsparenteducation.usu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Youth-Sport-Parent-Guide-v2.pdf Sport Parents Guide (Canadian Sport for Life): https://sportforlife.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/A-Sport-Parents-Guide.pdf 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert conversations on sports and performance! Use code 'SC10' for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #ParentingInSports #YouthSports #SportsPsychology #AthleteDevelopment #ParentalSupport #SportsParenting #Communication #MentalPerformance #SupportingChampions
In this episode, Steve Ingham sits down with Liam to dive into the cutting-edge science behind athletic performance. From strength training and speed development to the critical role of muscle temperature, this conversation covers everything you need to know about optimising performance for elite athletes. Discover how post activation potentiation (PAP) can prime athletes for competition, why recovery is often underestimated, and how individualised training programs lead to better results. Liam also shares insights into future trends in sports science, particularly the use of data strategies to drive performance outcomes. 🔍 Key Takeaways: Maintaining muscle temperature during competition is crucial. Strength training is the foundation for developing speed and power. Recovery and hypertrophy phases are essential for maximising results. Athletes thrive when they have ownership over their training. Collaboration and data strategies are shaping the future of sports science. 📌 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Performance Science 04:02 Liam's Background in Sports Performance 06:48 The Importance of Applied Research 09:18 Measuring Speed and Power in Athletes 12:12 Developing Strength for Power Training 15:09 The Role of Recovery in Training 17:55 Hypertrophy and Its Impact on Performance 20:32 Recovery Strategies for Elite Athletes 23:18 Power Training Methods and Guidelines 27:22 Understanding Post Activation Potentiation (PAP) 39:34 The Importance of Muscle Temperature in Performance 47:48 Future Directions in Sports Data Science 🎧 Tune in to discover actionable strategies for enhancing athletic performance and get inspired by the future of sports science. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights! 📖 Read more on Liam here: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/staff/l.kilduff/ 🔗Or connect with Liam via LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-kilduff-1b920745 Use code 'SC10' for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #SportsScience #PerformanceTraining #StrengthTraining #SpeedDevelopment #DataStrategy #PostActivationPotentiation #Recovery #AthleteTraining #SupportingChampions
🎙️ Welcome to the Supporting Champions Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Steve Ingham is joined by Professor Graeme Close, a leading expert in sports nutrition and human physiology. From his early days as a professional rugby league player to becoming a trusted advisor for England Rugby, Graeme shares his incredible journey and offers valuable insights into the science behind elite performance. We dive deep into the fundamentals of sports nutrition, the role of mentorship in academic success, and the importance of building relationships with athletes to create tailored nutrition strategies. Graeme discusses key topics such as carbohydrate manipulation, protein intake, and the debate around low-carb high-fat diets, while also exploring the science behind supplements like creatine, beta-alanine, and CBD. 💡 Key Topics Covered: The journey from athlete to academic in sports science Why mentorship matters in the field of sports nutrition Carbohydrate’s critical role in elite performance Understanding and addressing athlete behavior for effective nutrition The importance of protein intake and timing for strength training Individualized nutrition strategies for optimal results Evidence-based insights into supplements like creatine and beta-alanine Emerging trends in sports nutrition, including CBD and functional mushrooms If you're passionate about sports nutrition, athlete performance, or the science behind optimizing elite athletes, this episode is packed with practical tips and expert insights! 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth discussions with experts in sports science and performance. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Graeme Close 06:08 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Sports Scientists 12:10 - Insights from Working with England Rugby 17:56 - Understanding Athlete Behavior and Nutrition 23:53 - Carbohydrate Manipulation in Endurance Sports 30:08 - Implementing Effective Nutrition Strategies 36:06 - Carbohydrate is King: Unpacking the Concept 43:00 - The Debate on Low Carb High Fat Diets 50:57 - The Importance of Individualization in Nutrition 56:54 - Navigating Supplements for Elite Performance 01:14:58 - Emerging Trends in Sports Nutrition Use code 'SC10' for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ 📖 Read more on Graeme here: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/staff-profiles/faculty-of-science/sport-and-exercise-sciences/graeme-close https://www.nutritionx.co.uk/panel/professor-graeme-l-close/ #SportsNutrition #EliteAthletes #GraemeClose #PerformanceNutrition #CarbohydrateManipulation #Supplements #EnglandRugby #Creatine #BetaAlanine #CBD #SportsScience #Mentorship
🎙️ Welcome to the Supporting Champions Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Steve Ingham sits down with Sue Jackson, a renowned psychologist and expert in the field of flow and optimal performance. Sue shares her incredible journey in sports psychology, including her collaboration with Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the pioneer behind the flow concept. Together, we explore the fascinating world of flow—an optimal psychological state where we are fully immersed in a task—and its impact on performance, personal growth, and fulfilment. Sue dives deep into the balance between challenge and skill, mindfulness practices for enhancing flow, and how to create the right environment to unlock your potential. 💡 Key Topics Covered: The psychology of flow and its role in peak performance How to differentiate between flow and clutch states The challenge-skill balance: a foundation for flow Practical tips to achieve flow in daily life How mindfulness and concentration enhance flow Overcoming boredom and distractions to stay engaged The mastery mindset and its role in personal growth Whether you're an athlete, performer, or someone striving for personal excellence, this episode offers practical insights and actionable advice to help you tap into your full potential. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations about performance and personal development! Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Flow and Sue Jackson's Background 05:04 - Understanding Flow: The Optimal Psychological State 10:14 - Flow Across Different Disciplines 15:05 - Flow vs. Clutch States: A Comparative Analysis 19:58 - Factors Influencing Flow: Preparation and Environment 24:45 - Dimensions of Flow: Preconditions and Experiential Aspects 34:37 - The Importance of Concentration and Mindfulness 42:39 - Boredom and Its Impact on Flow 51:11 - Practical Tips for Achieving Flow Website: www.bodyandmindflow.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suejackson_flow/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bodyandmindflow LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/drsuejackson Use code 'SC10' for 10% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #Flow #Psychology #Performance #Mindfulness #SueJackson #SportsPsychology #Mastery #Concentration #ChallengeSkillBalance #supportingchampions
In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Dr Ali Sanders, whose journey seamlessly bridges two worlds of extreme performance: Olympic rowing and emergency medicine. Ali’s story is one of grit, adaptability, and relentless dedication. From discovering rowing by chance at university to competing at the Olympic Games, Ali has always embraced high-pressure challenges. She shares how those experiences laid the foundation for her work as a consultant in emergency medicine, particularly in the high-stakes environment of air ambulance services. 🔍 Key Topics We Explore: Ali’s journey from elite sport to a leadership role in healthcare. The mental resilience and focus required for Olympic competition and emergency response. How experiences as an athlete shaped her approach to team dynamics and leadership. The challenges of quick decision-making and preparation in air ambulance services. The importance of developing emotional resilience in high-pressure medical environments. Ali’s mission to create better training and support for the next generation of clinical leaders. Ali brings a unique perspective, combining lessons from sports psychology, leadership, and healthcare, offering insights that anyone working in high-performance or demanding fields can learn from. 🔗 Connect with Dr Ali Sanders: (4) Ali Sanders | LinkedIn 📖 Read about some of Ali's work here: 'You can't go home and not think about it' - BBC News If you enjoy this episode, like, comment, and subscribe to the channel for more thought-provoking discussions with leaders and experts across sport, healthcare, and beyond. Use code APPLIED for 50% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #AliSanders #EmergencyMedicine #OlympicRowing #MentalResilience #AirAmbulance #Leadership #TeamDynamics #SportsPsychology #SupportingChampions #Podcast
In this episode, I'm joined by David Bishop, a leading researcher specializing in exercise physiology at the University of Western Australia. David takes us through his unexpected journey from a physical education teacher to becoming a renowned expert in muscle metabolism and exercise physiology. During our conversation, David delves into how training at various intensities impacts mitochondrial adaptations, which are crucial for enhancing athletic performance. We explore the critical balance between training volume and intensity necessary for optimizing mitochondrial function and overall performance. David also shares insights into the future directions of exercise physiology research, including the potential for alternative training methods such as blood flow restriction and the importance of lactate measurements in assessing training intensity. Key Takeaways The Science of Mitochondria: Learn how these tiny powerhouses influence your athletic performance. Training Intensity and Adaptation: Discover the sweet spot between high-intensity and low-intensity training. The Role of Volume: Understand why consistent training is essential for long-term gains. Alternative Training Methods: Explore innovative techniques like blood flow restriction and the value of lactate monitoring. Future Directions in Exercise Science: Get a glimpse into the cutting-edge research shaping the future of training. Don't miss this fascinating conversation about the science of training. 🔗 Follow David Bishop: Twitter: (15) David J Bishop (He/Him) (@BlueSpotScience) / X Website: Institute for Health & Sport (IHES) | Victoria University Use code APPLIED for 50% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #SupportingChampions #Podcast #ExerciseScience #HIIT
Welcome to another exciting episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast. Today, I am thrilled to be joined by Troy Taylor, Senior Director of Performance at Tonal and a distinguished leader in the field of sports performance. With a career spanning elite sports organizations, including his role as the former High-Performance Director for U.S. Ski & Snowboard, Troy brings a wealth of experience and cutting-edge insights into optimizing athlete performance. In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of sports technology, including Troy’s innovative approach to strength training and personalized performance solutions. Troy shares his journey through the world of elite sports, offering invaluable lessons learned along the way. We explore how data-driven insights are transforming coaching practices, and what it takes to lead and inspire high-performing teams in a rapidly changing industry. Whether you're a sports scientist, coach, athlete, or simply passionate about human performance, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom, engaging stories, and a glimpse into the future of training and technology. Keep up to date with Troy via Social media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-taylor-4577bb38/ Or check out Troy and his teams work at: http://www.tonal.com Use code APPLIED for 50% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #training #performance #ski #snow #tonal
Today I’m delighted to welcome a legend in the world of sports psychology, Chris Shambrook. With over two decades of experience in high-performance psychology, Chris has worked with elite athletes, including the GB Rowing Team, where he’s been pivotal in helping athletes achieve their peak performance on the world stage. In this episode, we dive into Chris’s unique approaches to mental resilience, the subtle art of supporting champions through their highs and lows, and the practical tools he uses to help athletes maximize their potential. We explore how the mind can be a tool for excellence, rather than a barrier, and dig into Chris’s insights on the traits and habits of truly successful athletes. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, sports psychologist, or just fascinated by the psychology behind elite performance, this conversation will offer valuable perspectives to elevate your own journey. Find more on Chris' current work here: https://www.planetk2.com/team/chris-shambrook/ Keep up with Chris via Social Media here: https://www.instagram.com/drchrisshambrook/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshambrook/ Use code APPLIED for 50% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights into the world of sports performance and support! #sports #psychology #business
This week, I’m thrilled to have the brilliant Dr. Shona Halson join me. Shona is an expert in athlete recovery and a former Senior Physiologist at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), where she spent over 15 years researching and shaping the field of athlete recovery. She has worked with elite athletes, including the Australian Olympic team, to optimize their performance through evidence-based recovery strategies. In this episode, we dive deep into the science of recovery—what actually works, the myths that still exist, and how the elite get it right (or wrong). Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports science enthusiast, you'll want to hear Shona’s insights on sleep, fatigue management, and recovery technologies that are reshaping the way athletes train and perform. Join us as we explore the crucial role recovery plays in achieving success and what the latest research is telling us about how to help athletes recover smarter, not harder. Find more on Shona here: Shona Halson | ACU Researcher Read more on her current research here: SPRINT Research Centre (acu.edu.au) Find her on social media here (5) Shona Halson (@ShonaHalson) / X Use code APPLIED for 50% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ #recovery #myths #olympics #podcast
In this episode of The Supporting Champions Podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Olympic gold medallist and trampolining sensation, Bryony Page! Bryony's journey from overcoming self-doubt to standing atop the podium in Tokyo is nothing short of extraordinary. We dive deep into her mindset, training approaches, and the resilience it took to become a record breaker in her sport. Join me as we explore how Bryony turned her dreams into reality, the highs and lows of elite competition, and what drives her to keep pushing boundaries. Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a coach, or simply fascinated by what it takes to reach the pinnacle of success, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired. Watch Bryony's gold medal winning performance here: https://youtu.be/ky89WzzvRM8?feature=shared You can follow more of Bryony's Journey through her social media: https://www.instagram.com/bryony_page/?hl=en-gb If you're inspired to get into trampoline, take a look here; https://www.british-gymnastics.org/england/trampoline
In this week’s instalment I speak with Dr Ben Rosenblatt, founder of 292 performance and former S&C coach for England men’s football and GB women’s hockey. 292 performance is a multidisciplinary performance consultancy that offers support to elite athletes across a range of facets such as S&C, nutrition and psychology. Through his career, Ben has consulted and imparted his knowledge on individuals and organisations such as the premier league, Olympic associations and international military services. Today we are fortunate to sit down with him and discuss his experiences and key philosophies surrounding physical performance. If you would like to to find more about Bens current work or get into contact to collaborate/work with Ben follow this link: 292 Performance – Elevate Your Game You can also find Ben via social media at: (9) Dr Ben Rosenblatt (@ben_rosenblatt) / X (1) Dr Benjamin Rosenblatt | LinkedIn Use code APPLIED for 50% off all Supporting Champions Courses https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/ - Hi, I'm Steve Ingham Sports and Performance Scientist co-founder at Supporting Champions. I have the privilege of supporting over 1000 athletes of which over 200 have gone on to win World or Olympic medals. For the last 25 years I've been fascinated by, researched and applied innovative ideas to help people succeed and now I want to share those performance strategies with you. I help aspiring and professional Performance Science and Support Staff improve their skills, experience and mindset for working with sports performers through a range of online courses and an exclusive community hub https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse If you're working in sports performance or business and want to get support to develop your team and systems - take a look at what I offer here - https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/speaking/ Listen to the podcast https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/category/podcast/ Links https://x.com/ingham_steve https://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampions www.x.com/support_champs www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-champions https://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/
Andy Burns
A great podcast that answers questions and throws up more to explore. excellent stuff, thank you Steve for thinking out loud and letting us join in the conversation.