Supporting Champions

162: What training model improves VO2max and time trial performance for recreational and competitive endurance athletes with Michael Rosenblat

🎙️ 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 Background03:00 - Research Journey and Academic Affiliations05:52 - Overview of the Meta-Analysis Paper09:11 - Understanding Network Meta-Analysis11:55 - Participant Characteristics and Sample Size14:57 - Training Intensity Distribution Models17:59 - Decoding Intention to Treat vs. Per Protocol Analysis27:31 - Understanding Quasi-Experimental Designs30:02 - Methodological Limitations in Training Studies32:30 - Analyzing Gender Differences in Athletic Performance34:08 - Exploring VO2 Max Results39:14 - Individual Variability in Training Responses47:01 - Comparing Training Models for Different Athlete Levels55:44 - Practical Recommendations for Athletes57:01 - 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/
 
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#ExerciseScience #TrainingIntensity #MetaAnalysis #EnduranceAthletes #VO2Max #AthleticPerformance #SportsMedicine #SupportingChampions #MichaelRosenblat

161: Using play to improve performance with Richard Cheetham

🎙️ 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 Journey03:11 Innovative Coaching Methods and Learner Empathy05:45 The Evolution of Coaching: Expectations and Engagement09:09 Balancing Sports Science and Coaching11:58 The Role of Play in Coaching24:04 Defining Play and Its Importance in Sports28:57 The Influence of Early Experiences in Sports34:24 Creating a Playful Environment for Learning38:42 Innovative Approaches to Coaching44:06 Divergent Thinking and Cross-Sport Learning49:21 The Future of Coaching in an AI World54:14 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!
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#Coaching #SportsPsychology #LearnerEmpathy #InnovativeCoaching #PlayInSport #AthleteDevelopment #RichardCheetham #SupportingChampions
 

160: Parenting Talent with Valeria Eckardt

🎙️ 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 Sport01:09 The Role of Parents in Sports06:29 Understanding Parental Involvement11:14 The Balance of Support and Pressure18:16 Navigating Support and Pressure22:06 Effective Communication Strategies30:17 The Complexity of Sports Parenting31:08 Navigating Parental Involvement in Sports39:24 The Impact of Social Media on Young Athletes43:43 Supporting Parents in Competitive Sports51:52 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

159: How to train for, prime and preserve power in performance with Liam Kilduff

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 Science04:02 Liam's Background in Sports Performance06:48 The Importance of Applied Research09:18 Measuring Speed and Power in Athletes12:12 Developing Strength for Power Training15:09 The Role of Recovery in Training17:55 Hypertrophy and Its Impact on Performance20:32 Recovery Strategies for Elite Athletes23:18 Power Training Methods and Guidelines27:22 Understanding Post Activation Potentiation (PAP)39:34 The Importance of Muscle Temperature in Performance47:48 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
 

158: Brilliant basics and innovative nutrition for endurance, strength and size with Prof Graeme Close

🎙️ 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

157: How to be more productive using flow states with Dr Sue Jackson

🎙️ 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 

156: Dr Ali Sanders on high performance in the helicopter emergency services

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

155: David Bishop on interval training, mitochondria and training stressors

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) / XWebsite: 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

154: Troy Taylor on the state of strength training and what it tells us about our habits

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 

153: Chris Shambrook on Lessons from Sport and Business

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