Afleveringen

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob speaks to Alex Wolf who delves into the adaptation-led approach to strength training, contrasting it with traditional methods. Alex shares his extensive background in strength conditioning and discusses the importance of defining outcomes before selecting training methods. He emphasizes the need for specificity in training and provides examples of how to effectively target adaptations. The discussion also highlights the challenges and misconceptions surrounding traditional strength training practices, advocating for a shift in perspective towards outcome-driven training methodologies. In this conversation, Alex discusses the importance of shifting from traditional exercise advocacy to an outcome-led approach in strength and conditioning. He emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of physiological principles and the importance of clear objectives in training. The discussion also covers the training intention framework, the balance between technical skills and needs analysis, and the necessity of understanding muscle architecture for effective coaching.

    Main talking points:• Adaptation-led approach focuses on outcomes rather than just exercise• Specificity in training is crucial for effective performance enhancement• Understanding the intended outcome is essential before selecting training methods• Unexplained performance improvements are not sustainable or reliable• Machine-based training can be more effective than traditional barbell exercises in some scenarios• Understanding the physiology behind exercise selection is essential

  • In this episode of the Pace Performance Podcast, Rob speaks to Pete Burridge who delves into the complexities of energy system development in rugby, exploring how it intertwines with tactical and technical execution under physical and mental strain. They discuss the importance of energy system development tailored to the game model, the role of testing in performance, and the strategies employed during pre-season conditioning.

    Pete shares insights from his experiences at various rugby clubs, emphasizing the need for effective communication between coaches and performance staff to optimize player readiness and performance. In this conversation, Pete discusses various aspects of training methodologies, focusing on progressive overload, heart rate monitoring, and the psychological impacts of training on athletes. He shares insights on the importance of volume in training, the use of heart rate as a performance metric, and the challenges of maintaining athlete engagement.

    Additionally, he expresses skepticism about Zone 2 training in team sports and explores innovative ways to gamify training sessions to enhance motivation and performance. The conversation culminates in a discussion about high-intensity training protocols and their necessity for athlete development.

    Main talking points:

    A high-low training format allows for optimal recovery and intensity management

    Energy system development should align with the team's game model and coaching strategies

    Off-feet conditioning is crucial for managing player fatigue and ensuring readiness

    Gradual integration of new players into conditioning is essential for their adaptation

    Volume is a key driver for central adaptations like cardiac output

    Training monotony can be mitigated with engaging strategies

    Zone 2 training has limited applicability in team sports

    Gamifying training can enhance athlete engagement and performance

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  • This conversation delves into the critical aspects of growth and maturation in youth football with staff from the Brentford FC academy and industry experts, focusing on biological maturation, assessment methods, injury prevention, and talent identification. Our guests discuss their experiences and insights on how to effectively monitor and support young footballers through their developmental stages, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and education. This conversation delves into the innovative practices at Brentford FC regarding youth player development, focusing on bio-banding, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the holistic approach to nurturing young athletes. The panel discusses the importance of understanding growth and maturation, the challenges faced during player trials, and the significance of creating a supportive environment that prioritizes player experiences and well-being. They emphasize the need for tailored training loads and the integration of various developmental strategies to optimize performance and reduce injury risks.

    Main talking points:

    Genetics play a significant role in determining maturity

    Regular assessments are crucial for understanding growth patterns

    Strength training can positively impact bone density in young athletes

    Talent identification should consider biological age and maturity

    Bio-banding allows for tailored training based on physical maturity

  • In this episode of the Pace Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Tim Roberts, the sports medicine manager at the UFC Performance Institute in Mexico City, shares his extensive background in sports physiotherapy and the importance of multi-sport experience in developing as a clinician. He discusses the significance of strength profiling in MMA, the tiered diagnostic approach used at the UFCPI, and the technology and tools employed for athlete assessment. Tim emphasizes the need for tailored injury prevention programs that cater to the diverse backgrounds of athletes at the institute. In this conversation, Tim discusses the intricacies of performance analysis, injury prevention, and rehabilitation strategies in MMA. He emphasizes the importance of normalizing data for accurate performance insights, creating a culture of injury prevention among fighters, and the challenges faced in managing their rehabilitation. Tim shares insights on how to effectively communicate with athletes, the significance of maintaining their fighter spirit, and the structured approach to return-to-play progressions. He highlights the need for a balance between athlete safety and performance demands, ultimately fostering a supportive environment for fighters.

    Main talking points:

    Tiered diagnostics to help immediate programming and prevention

    Brain health assessments

    Finding a balance between care and toughness for fighter mentality

    Maintaining athlete involvement during recovery

    Building trust and connection with fighters

    Leveraging technology for athlete assessment

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Tim McGrath discusses the complexities of ACL injuries, emphasizing the importance of blending art and science in rehabilitation. He shares insights on assessing athletes' risk factors, the significance of biomechanical evaluations, and the necessity of effective communication in sports settings. Tim also highlights the role of biases in training and assessment, advocating for a structured approach to skill acquisition and injury prevention. In this conversation, Tim discusses the common mistakes made in ACL rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of understanding both biological and functional components. He highlights the significance of objective assessments in the later stages of rehabilitation and challenges the traditional six-month return timeline, advocating for a more individualized approach based on the athlete's readiness rather than a strict timeline.

    Main talking points:

    ACL injuries require a blend of art and science in rehab

    Biomechanical assessments are crucial for identifying risk factors

    Rehabilitation must address both physical and cognitive aspects

    Common mistakes in ACL rehab include ignoring structural issues

    The ‘six-month return’ timeline for ACL injuries

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Kyle Sammons shares his journey from being a college athlete to becoming a sports science coordinator with the Arizona Cardinals. He discusses his experiences in sports technology and how they shaped his approach to athlete rehabilitation and performance enhancement. Central to the conversation is the Beast Factory Framework, a methodology developed to aid in the recovery of injured athletes, emphasizing a neuro-mechanical approach to training. Kyle explains the importance of single joint training and how it contrasts with traditional multi-joint exercises, providing insights into the physiological benefits and the rationale behind this innovative approach.

    In this conversation, Kyle discusses the intricacies of tissue mechanics, the importance of both single and multi-joint training, and the evolving role of rehabilitation in sports. He emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach between strength coaches and medical professionals to enhance athlete recovery and performance. The discussion also covers the evolution of sports science, mechanisms of Achilles injuries, and the significance of benchmarking recovery and performance metrics. Kyle shares insights from his experiences and highlights the importance of understanding movement and injury mechanisms in optimizing athletic performance.

    Main talking points:

    Single joint training can be more effective than traditional multi-joint training

    Biomechanics should be simplified to understand movement better

    The Beast Factory Framework

    The neuro-mechanical framework focuses on tissue-level training

    The importance of internal load versus external load in training

  • In this conversation, Chris Chase, Director of Performance at the Memphis Grizzlies, discusses the significance of deceleration in athletic performance, particularly in basketball. He emphasizes the need for strength coaches to adapt to technological advancements and the importance of understanding multi-directional speed. The conversation also touches on the evolution of training methods and the necessity of effective testing for deceleration and acceleration.

    In this conversation, Chris Chase discusses innovative measurement techniques in sports training, focusing on the use of technology like VueMotion and force plates. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both kinematics and kinetics in athlete training, particularly in basketball. The discussion also covers the evolving landscape of force measurement technology and the potential for new tools to replace traditional methods.

    Additionally, Chase shares insights on deceleration training, highlighting the need for progressive overload and the role of functional training, including the use of machines, in athlete development.

    Main talking points:

    • Acceleration elements should not be overlooked in training• ADA testing provides valuable insights into deceleration capabilities• Kinetics and kinematics are essential for understanding athlete performance• Deceleration training requires progressive overload to be effective• Functional training can include machines for targeted muscle development• Understanding impulse manipulation is key to improving performance

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Luke Sewell discusses his aggressive yet structured approach to hamstring injury rehabilitation, emphasizing early loading, objective monitoring, and collaboration, that can accelerate recovery and minimize reinjury risk while maintaining player confidence and performance. His approach emphasizes a collaborative, aggressive rehabilitation strategy developed over several years, aiming to accelerate recovery while minimizing reinjury risk.

    A key component of this approach is early loading, neuromuscular control, and gradual exposure to high-speed movements. Understanding injury severity is crucial, as less severe tendon injuries can be treated more aggressively, whereas complete avulsions require surgery and a conservative approach. Progression is guided by clear rehabilitation goals, objective markers, and emotional support to ensure player confidence.

    Luke highlights the importance of using maximal aerobic speed and match output data to tailor rehab intensity, progressing players through sprint work, change of direction drills, and controlled overload. The approach prioritizes communication between medical staff, coaches, and athletes to align rehab strategies with team performance needs.

    Strength-building activities, monitored performance markers, and training logs ensure players safely return to full match fitness. The podcast emphasizes that aggressive rehab doesn’t mean reckless; it means structured, progressive, and well-communicated rehabilitation that gets players back faster and stronger.

    Key Points:

    • Early loading and neuromuscular control are essential.• Injury severity determines aggressive vs. conservative rehab approaches.• Maximal aerobic speed guides sprint progressions.• Match output data tailors individualized rehab programs.• Communication between staff and players ensures rehab alignment.• Progressive overload is key but must be monitored carefully.• Players must meet specific speed and volume targets before return.

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob speaks to Anthony Donskov about reflexive eccentrics. Reflexive eccentric training is gaining recognition for its role in improving athletic performance and reducing injury risk. In this episode, Anthony breaks down the principles, programming, and practical applications of this training method, emphasizing the importance of stiffness, speed, and strategic progressions in athlete development.

    Anthony discusses how reflexive eccentrics involve rapid eccentric contractions that enhance force absorption and control. This method is especially relevant for high-level athletes, as it trains deceleration, stability, and explosive reacceleration—all key for sports like hockey. He highlights the importance of clear external cues, such as “grabbing the floor” or “being stiff,” to help athletes optimize landing mechanics and movement efficiency.

    The conversation also covers programming considerations, including off-season vs. in-season adaptations, how to balance heavy lifting with reflexive movements, and reducing muscle soreness while maximizing explosiveness. Anthony outlines a three-day cycle of training that incorporates heavy lifts, submaximal speed work, and strategic plyometrics. He stresses the need for individualized assessments, using player cards and radar graphs to track progress and adjust training accordingly.

    Despite the challenges in measuring reflexive eccentric adaptations, improvements in jump height, net impulse, and rate of force development suggest their effectiveness. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of structured strength, recovery, and flexibility in athlete programming, advocating for tissue remodeling and long-duration isometrics to reduce stiffness and chronic injury risk.

    This episode is packed with practical insights for coaches and practitioners looking to integrate reflexive eccentrics into their performance programs.

    Main talking points:

    • Reflexive eccentrics enhance speed, stiffness, and reacceleration• Rapid eccentric contractions improve force absorption and control• Training should be tailored to athlete experience levels• Clear external cues optimize movement efficiency and stiffness• Off-season training should focus on stiffness and strength• A three-day cycle balances heavy lifts and speed work• Reflexive eccentrics reduce muscle soreness and improve explosiveness• Tissue remodeling and isometrics help prevent chronic injuries

  • On this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Jake Tuura shares his journey into tendon training after personal struggles with jumper’s knee. He highlights the critical role tendons play in sports performance, acting as energy-storing structures that absorb and release force during high-intensity movements. Proper tendon stiffness minimizes excessive strain, reducing the risk of tendon injuries such as tendinopathy and ruptures.

    Jake explains that developing tendon stiffness takes time and is best achieved through long-term heavy lifting and isometric exercises rather than relying solely on plyometrics. Research indicates that short-duration heavy isometric contractions stimulate collagen production and improve tendon resilience, whereas plyometrics alone may not provide sufficient loading for tendon adaptation. Effective training should apply 4-20% strain to optimize tendon health while maintaining overall strength and conditioning.

    Jake spends time on explaining that early engagement in diverse physical activities (ages 0-17) helps build robust tendons, while poor training practices and high blood sugar levels can negatively affect tendon stiffness. Both male and female athletes should follow structured tendon training approaches, as biological differences do not necessitate separate programs.

    After being asked about the Achilles rupture epidemic in NFL, Jake explains that proper offseason conditioning and tendon monitoring are crucial. Regular assessments, high-load training, and structured progressions can prevent degenerative issues, helping athletes maintain high performance while minimizing injury risks.

    Main talking points:

    Tendon stiffness is crucial for sports performance Proper tendon training helps prevent injuries Heavy lifting and isometrics improve tendon stiffness Plyometrics alone are insufficient for tendon adaptation Short-duration heavy isometrics enhance tendon resilience Early physical activity builds strong tendons Achilles injuries are increasing in professional sports Offseason conditioning is critical for tendon health Regular assessments help prevent tendon degeneration
  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Steph Mock Grubbs and Ryan Grubbs discuss their experiences transitioning across different sports, levels, and job roles within elite performance environments. Their journey from college athletics to professional sports highlights the evolution of roles in strength & conditioning, rehab, and sports science.

    Steph, now with the Houston Astros, and Ryan, working with the Houston Texans, explain how reconditioning bridges the gap between rehab and performance training, ensuring athletes return to play at optimal levels. They emphasize the importance of adapting training methodologies, particularly in baseball, where athlete workload and season length pose unique challenges.

    A key theme of their discussion is the shift from being generalists to specialists, requiring continuous upskilling in rehab, load management, and performance programming. The integration of strength, rehab, and reconditioning teams in professional sports enables collaboration and efficiency in managing injury risk and athlete development.

    The episode also covers balancing athlete health with team needs, using objective performance data to inform return-to-play decisions, and navigating career transitions in elite sport. They stress the importance of mentorship, research, and relationship-building in making successful career moves.

    Finally, they discuss challenges in balancing professional careers with personal relationships, emphasizing adaptability, teamwork, and continuous learning in both career growth and life. Their insights provide valuable lessons for practitioners looking to evolve within high-performance environments while maintaining long-term career sustainability.

    Main talking points:

    Reconditioning bridges rehab and performance training.Transitioning from college to pro sports requires adaptation.Balancing athlete health with team performance needs.Eccentric training is key in injury prevention.Collaboration between strength, rehab, and reconditioning teams.Athlete workload management is crucial in long seasons.Individualized return-to-play plans improve performance outcomes.Generalist to specialist career shifts require upskilling.Mentorship and networking help career transitions.Objective performance data informs return-to-play decisions.Professional careers impact personal relationships significantly.Continuous learning and adaptability drive career growth.
  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Molly Binetti, Director of Women’s Basketball Performance at the University of South Carolina, discusses the transformation of the women’s basketball program under Coach Dawn Staley. With two national championships and record-breaking attendance, the program exemplifies success through holistic athlete development, individualized training, and strong relationships.

    Molly emphasizes the importance of blending skill development with athleticism, focusing on movement quality and creating engaging training environments. By fostering autonomy and incorporating athlete feedback, the program builds trust and enhances player engagement. Individualized training allows athletes to choose exercises that suit their preferences while targeting specific performance outcomes.

    Prioritizing athlete health has been crucial to the program’s success, with a player availability rate exceeding 98% over seven years. Flexibility in training and open communication among staff ensures that recovery and performance are balanced without overtraining. Informal assessments, including sprint testing and jump evaluations, are used to tailor programs and address individual needs.

    Molly highlights the value of variation in training to prepare athletes for the unpredictability of competition. Machines like the leg press are used to strengthen lower bodies safely while preserving skill development. Distinct positional needs, such as conditioning for guards and strength for post players, are addressed to optimize on-court performance.

    By combining holistic athlete development, data-driven insights, and a collaborative approach, South Carolina’s program continues to set a benchmark for excellence in women’s basketball.

    Main talking points:

    Holistic development for athlete performance and growth Blending skill development with athleticism Athlete autonomy through feedback and engagement Informal assessments to tailor individual training programs Variation in training for adaptability and resilience Using adaptation as the driver for exercise selection Positional needs for guards and post players Movement quality over just strength and power Setting benchmarks for excellence in women’s basketball programs
  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Nick Court, Johan Lahti, and Matthew Bourne discuss strategies for reducing hamstring injury risk in elite football players, emphasizing the importance of individualized training, eccentric conditioning, and movement mechanics.

    Despite advancements, hamstring injuries remain prevalent due to the increasing demands of high-speed running and eccentric contractions in sports. Eccentric training, particularly the Nordic hamstring exercise, has proven effective but remains underutilized due to compliance challenges and limited preseason time. Incorporating exercises like single-leg RDLs, hip extensions, and inertial training can further strengthen hamstrings and reduce injury risk.

    Proper sprint mechanics and balanced strength between the iliopsoas and hamstrings are critical. Faulty mechanics, such as excessive backward thigh movement, can increase strain on the hamstrings. A multifactorial approach, combining practical assessments, running kinematics, and targeted exercises, is essential for addressing individual risk factors and improving movement efficiency.

    Injury prevention also requires tailoring rehabilitation to each athlete’s needs, using tools like handheld dynamometers and pulley systems to assess hamstring strength and endurance. Movement constraints, joint torque, and muscle-tendon junction adaptations should be considered in rehabilitation plans. Training programs must balance high-speed running exposure, eccentric conditioning, and varied running techniques to enhance stiffness and reduce fatigue-related risks.

    The podcast concludes that effective hamstring injury prevention relies on individualized strategies, incorporating both scientific evidence and practical tools, to address the unique demands and risks faced by elite athletes. These approaches ensure improved performance and reduced recurrence rates.

    Main talking points:

    Integrate eccentric conditioning Tailor injury prevention to individual athlete needs Focus on proper sprint mechanics to reduce strain Strengthen iliopsoas and hamstring balance for stability Use single-leg RDLs and hip extensions for strength Assess running mechanics to identify risk factors Incorporate varied running techniques to enhance movement Monitor high-speed running exposure in training programs Improve stiffness and control during fatigued states Use tools like dynamometers to assess hamstring strength Develop structured rehab plans with clear progression Address movement efficiency and biomechanics in prevention.
  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Charlie Faulkner discusses the critical importance of deceleration and change of direction (COD) in sports performance, emphasizing tailored training approaches and practical experience. Charlie highlights his journey in coaching, where understanding the demands of each game and the specific movement qualities required has been central to his philosophy.

    Deceleration and COD are essential biomotor qualities that influence high-intensity actions in sports like football and tennis. Effective COD relies on mechanics such as a strong penultimate step and ankle elasticity. Charlie explains how profiling athletes through tools like the modified 505 test, opto jump, and Sprint 1080 provides valuable insights into their movement capabilities and limitations.

    Video analysis and scoring systems, such as the CMAS scoring system, are used to assess movement mechanics and identify potential injury risks. Charlie emphasizes the importance of evaluating asymmetries, knee abduction moments, and early braking to better understand and address performance issues.

    Training strategies should focus on targeted muscle adaptations and movement mechanics, using drills that replicate match conditions. Strengthening specific muscles, like the vastus lateralis and calf, and employing exercises such as kettlebell swings and targeted hopping drills can improve deceleration and COD efficiency.

    Charlie advocates for individualized programs that consider the demands of each sport and athlete. High-force training, reactive hops, and tailored rehab strategies are vital for enhancing performance while preventing injuries. His approach underscores the value of continuous assessment and reflection to refine training outcomes.

    Main talking points:

    How to assess deceleration Using video analysis to evaluate movement mechanics Addressing asymmetries in athlete movement profiles Training the penultimate step for better braking efficiency Incorporating reactive drills to improve COD efficiency Monitor knee abduction moments to prevent injuries
  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is joined by Angus Ross who explores the significance of eccentric training in sports performance and injury prevention, offering insights into its application and benefits. With a background in speed and power sports, Angus shares his journey from an athlete and physiologist to an elite strength coach, emphasizing the importance of hard work and innovative methods in training.

    Eccentric training, which combines high velocity and force, is highlighted as a critical tool for athletic development. Angus discusses its unique ability to promote muscle fiber adaptations, specifically a shift towards type 2b fibers, which enhance power and speed. However, he cautions that improper management of eccentric training can lead to muscle damage and hinder performance, stressing the need for carefully structured regimens.

    Innovative devices like flywheel systems are increasingly used to facilitate controlled eccentric loading, particularly in sports requiring speed and explosive power. Angus advocates for tailored approaches to eccentric training, recognizing individual differences in athlete needs, strengths, and recovery capacities. He also highlights the importance of avoiding over-reliance on advanced techniques with younger athletes, instead focusing on foundational strength and technique.

    Angus emphasizes that eccentric training is not a standalone solution but an integral part of a holistic approach to athletic development. By balancing eccentric work with other modalities and carefully managing load during competition periods, coaches can optimize performance while minimizing injury risks. Angus encourages critical thinking in training methodologies and fostering discussions for mutual growth and learning.

    Key talking points:

    How to integrate eccentric training to enhance power and speed. Tailor eccentric regimens to individual athlete needs. Using flywheel systems for controlled eccentric loading. Managing eccentric load to prevent muscle damage. Balancing eccentric work with other training modalities. Incorporating high-velocity, high-force exercises for adaptation. How to address athlete recovery during competition periods. Optimize power-to-weight ratio in acceleration training. Include rotational movements for team sport athletes.
  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Bryan Heiderscheit, Fearghal Kerin and Emidio Pacecca. The topic of this conversation is all around MRI and its use in athlete performance profiling. MRI scans are usually thought of an expensive tool that is used when an athlete gets injured. But in this episode we break down those barriers and disciver how they can be used, through technology like Springbok Analytics, in other ways to improve performance and mitigate injury risk with healthy athletes.

    First we discuss MRI and what it actually is. Bryan gives us some great examples of where it can be used and why. Fearghal and Emidio then give us some amazing insights from the world of elite sport on how MRI scans are actually being used. But most importantly, they give us the real key information which is what we do with the information once we have it.

    If you're trying to reduce injury risk and optimise performance, check out this episode.

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Alex Natera, Danny Lum, and Matt Taberner to discuss the role of isometric training in sports performance and rehabilitation, focusing on its ability to enhance strength, recovery, and dynamic performance.

    Isometric training is increasingly recognized for its utility in sports, especially given the challenge of maintaining effective strength training amidst intense competition schedules. It is effective for improving muscle stiffness, tendon adaptation, and managing recovery, making it essential for injury prevention and rehabilitation. The guests emphasize that isometric training, when paired with plyometric exercises, enhances both muscle and tendon resilience, supporting performance in high-intensity sports.

    The speakers advocate for using isometric exercises throughout rehabilitation, adjusting the approach to address specific joint weaknesses, and tailoring it to each athlete’s unique needs. For instance, using force evaluations for joints like the ankle, knee, and hip allows practitioners to target weak points effectively.

    Data integrity is crucial for isometric assessments, and techniques like pre-tensioning and accurate joint positioning help ensure reliable results. Tools such as iso straps, strain gauges, and handheld dynamometers facilitate precise assessments, helping coaches to optimize training and monitor fatigue.

    Alex, Danny and Matt conclude that isometric training, when thoughtfully applied, is a powerful tool for boosting athletic performance, preventing injuries, and enhancing rehabilitation, providing coaches with versatile methods to address the needs of individual athletes effectively.

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Luke Fitzpatrick, Head of Data Science at VALD, discusses the role of data science in sports technology and the importance of data quality and security. He explains the process of generating normative data and how clients can get the most out of their data. Luke also shares interesting insights, such as the age at which adolescents experience the largest strength development and the average strength of NFL players compared to the general population. The data science team at VALD is focused on expanding their product suite and providing more valuable insights to clients.

    This episode is different to any that we have done over the last 10 years.

    New talking points:

    The role of a data scientist at ValdData quality and securityAccessing VALD testing dataManaging huge amounts of dataVisualizing normative dataMaking the most of your data
  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Rehabilitation Coordinator at PSV Eindhoven, Nick van der Horst. Nick shares his journey from aspiring footballer to sports physiotherapist, where he now focuses on rehabilitation at PSV Eindhoven.

    Nick advocates for preseason screenings that assess isometric strength, mobility, and contralateral limb function to identify individual risks. He also highlights the importance of iliopsoas mobility for hamstring flexibility and sprint performance. Tailored training strategies and post-game eccentric exercises also play a key role in preventing injuries.

    Nick emphasizes individualized approaches in both prevention and rehabilitation. Mini-dosing and eccentric training in fatigued states, along with structured recovery phases, help build resilience and reduce injury risk. He also stresses the importance of avoiding ineffective methods like cupping and dry needling in favor of mobility and flexibility work for better energy transfer during athletic performance.

    Nick stresses that personalized strategies, including eccentric exercises and load management, alongside strong communication with players, are key to reducing hamstring injuries in athletes.

    Main talking points:

    • Eccentric strength training crucial for injury prevention• Personalize load management to each athlete's needs• Conduct preseason screenings for hamstring injury risks• Focus on iliopsoas mobility for sprint performance• Tailor training strategies to individual player profiles• Use post-game eccentric exercises for recovery• Apply mini-dosing in fatigued states for injury prevention• Strengthen pelvic mobility for energy transfer efficiency.

  • In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Johan Lahti discusses the complexities of assessing sprint technique in relation to hamstring injury risk. While technology has made sprint assessment more accessible, measuring its impact on injury risk remains challenging, and Johan questions whether it's always worth the effort. However, he emphasizes the importance of focusing on key aspects of technique, such as minimizing time under tension and analyzing movement patterns like overstriding or increased hip flexion, which can lead to hamstring issues.

    Johan highlights that sprint assessments should consider the entire movement cycle, as isolated 2D assessments may miss critical factors like pelvic movement. He notes that technique assessments do not always predict performance or injury risk accurately, stressing the need to address both movement patterns and physical strength. Strengthening key muscle groups, especially the glutes and hamstrings, is vital for maintaining sprint technique, particularly under fatigue, which can help reduce injury risk.

    He also discusses the rising prevalence of hamstring injuries due to increased high-speed sprinting in professional sports. He advocates for teaching sustainable sprint techniques to young athletes to develop overall athleticism and prevent future injuries. Force-velocity profiling is also mentioned as a valuable tool for identifying athletes' strengths and weaknesses in sprinting.

    While assessing sprint technique is valuable, it must be done holistically and integrated with strength training to minimize hamstring injury risk and improve performance.

    Main talking points:

    • Focus on key aspects of sprint technique• Minimize time under tension during sprinting• Analyze entire movement cycle for injury risk• Address overstriding and increased hip flexion• Assess sprint technique in a fatigued states• Teach sustainable sprint techniques to young athletes• Develop strength and movement variability early• Train sprint form to reduce hamstring strain• Incorporate sprint assessments with strength training