Performance Strategies & Stumbles

Listen Time: 33mins In this conversation, I welcome Andrew Usher to discuss the importance of understanding oxygen utilization in sports performance. We challenge the traditional focus on VO2 max as a measure of aerobic capacity and highlight the significance of muscle extraction and utilisation of oxygen. We dig into the benefits of extracting oxygen quickly and efficiently and it being more important than the volume of oxygen consumed. Andrew shares his research findings on the impact of supermaximal training on mitochondrial function and oxygen utilization. We also discuss the implications of these findings for injury recovery and team sports performance. Takeaways VO2 max is not the sole determinant of aerobic capacity; muscle extraction and utilization of oxygen are equally important. The ability to extract oxygen quickly and efficiently is crucial for sports performance. Supermaximal training can significantly improve mitochondrial function and oxygen utilization. Understanding oxygen utilization can have implications for injury recovery and team sports performance. If this episode challenged you to rethink conditioning work in any way, consider checking out the "Clarity in Conditioning" mentorship we have just launched. Visit www.collaboratesports.com/thegroupmentorships As always, don't hesitate to reach out and hope you are enjoying the show! Dan  

Listen Time 28mins Richard Husseiny shares his journey from the UK Sports Institute to working with Chinese diving teams in this Performance Strategies and Stumbles podcast episode. He reflects on the cultural differences, initial mistakes, and the importance of building relationships over making immediate impacts. Richard discusses the pressures of performance, the challenges of communication in a new environment, and the significance of self-awareness and personal fulfilment in coaching. He emphasises the need to overcome imposter syndrome and the importance of work-life balance, ultimately advocating for a collaborative coaching and career development approach. Some key talking points we cover: Transitioning to a new environment can reveal unexpected challenges. Cultural differences can significantly impact communication and collaboration. Building relationships is more important than making immediate impacts. Self-imposed pressure can hinder performance and decision-making. Imposter syndrome is common among coaches and practitioners. It's important to ask questions and seek clarity in your role. If you enjoyed the podcast, do like and share on your networks, and if you'd like to see more about the Group Mentorship work we do at Collaborate Sports, please visit www.collaboratesports.com Tune in again next week! Dan

Listen Time - 30mins In this episode, I interview Paul Talty about strength and power development for swimming. Paul was Head of Performance for Swim Ireland leading into Paris 2024 where they delivered medal-winning performances. We discuss Strength & Power development in swimmers and Paul emphasises that swimming is different from other sports due to the unique environment it takes place in.  Throughout this interesting episode you will experience the following takeaways from Pauls insight:  Swimming is different from other sports due to the unique environment it takes place in. Increasing mass and force production in swimming requires careful consideration, as excessive mass can hinder performance in the water. Identify specific areas for improvement, such as starts, turns, or free swimming speed, and tailor the training program accordingly. Focus on basic strength and conditioning principles and use a tier system to structure sessions. Consider the trade-off between emphasizing weaknesses and emphasizing strengths in the training program. Use swim-specific isometric strength training and exercises that mimic block starts to enhance transfer to the pool. Be mindful of the limited energy available to swimmers and avoid excessive fatigue from the strength and conditioning program. As mentioned in the episode, please take a look at both the group mentorships we are now enrolling practitioners for, on a first come first serve basis (www.collaboratesports.com/thegroupmentorships) and the great block article from Jordan Welsh (www.collaboratesports.com/blog/jordanwelsh) If you enjoyed the episode, feel free to like and share with those in your network! Dan  

Listen Time - 27mins In this episode, I welcome Liam Connor to the podcast. Liam has a background in S&C and professional football, as well as his most recent roles at the UK Sports Institute.  Liam shares his experience of letting his ego get in the way and clashing with others, leading to conflicts and disputes. We also discuss the importance of respect, listening, and learning in resolving conflicts. Liam explores the relationship between strength and conditioning coaches and technical coaches, highlighting the need for mutual understanding and collaboration. We reflect on the importance of seeking external feedback and support in your personal development too! As mentioned in the outro, if you'd like to learn more about the Collaborate Sports Group Mentorship programmes, now open for enrollment please visit https://collaboratesports.com/thegroupmentorships to find out more I hope you enjoy the show! Dan