Sign up for my free weekly GAA coaching insights here:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773

📹 Related video: How to Blend Games with Runs in GAA Conditioning👉 https://youtu.be/ku7lN2W5T8k?si=fbyb3VEds6BKi7tz

📸 Follow Cian O’Dea on Instagram:👉 @cianodea_sc

💼 Learn about my Youth S&C Consultancy Services:👉 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WyrxfpBLkpQDXeS1SqevwohFmEtOq_xFtW9s6W5FOnU/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode of Coach’s Lab, Dr John Murphy is joined by Cian O’Dea — Strength & Conditioning coach, Coach Education Manager, and PhD researcher — to discuss the physical and tactical impact of a Games-Based Approach in Gaelic Games.

Cian shares findings from his research on how different game formats influence fitness, speed, and decision-making, and how coaches can build sessions that are both engaging and physically demanding.

We chat about:

• 🏐 Designing games that develop skill and conditioning

• 🧠 Blending small-sided and large-sided formats for different outcomes

• 🔁 When and how to include top-up running outside games

• 📊 The physiological demands revealed through Cian’s studies

• 🎯 Practical takeaways for coaches balancing realism, fun, and load management

Whether you’re a GAA coach, S&C practitioner, or PE teacher, this conversation offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help you get more from every session.

Follow Coach’s Lab for weekly conversations on Gaelic Games, coaching, sports science, and athletic development.

#GAA #StrengthAndConditioning #GamesBasedApproach #Coaching #AthleteDevelopment #SportsScience #GaelicFootball #Hurling