Sportsmith

Are You Training the Right Isometric Qualities? Not all isometric exercises are the same—especially in sprinting. While holding isometrics may be more specific to maximum velocity running because of the braking phase, the propulsive phase may require different types of isometric strength. In this presentation, Alex Natera explains how elite sprinters control force application at high speeds and how coaches can integrate run-specific isometric training to develop resilient, high-performance athletes. Check the full presentation out below ?? https://lnkd.in/e68eZkwA

Now on Sportsmith Premium... "High grade hamstring injury rehabilitation – Principles from research to practice" From Fearghal Kerin Hamstring injuries remain one of the biggest challenges in elite sport, with high-grade strains often leading to prolonged absences and increased risk of re-injury. In this must-watch presentation, Fearghal Kerin takes a deep dive into the latest evidence-based strategies for rehabilitating intramuscular tendon (IMT) and T-junction injuries—some of the most complex hamstring pathologies. Through real-world case studies, progressive rehab frameworks, and exclusive rehab videos, this session breaks down why traditional approaches often fail, how to optimize loading strategies, and the critical role of eccentric and isometric interventions in restoring function. Fearghal also shares insights on alternative imaging techniques, activation deficits, and practical solutions to accelerate return to play while mitigating re-injury risks. If you’re working with athletes recovering from hamstring injuries, this is an essential guide to applying cutting-edge research in practice. Check it out below: https://lnkd.in/eHDrRRZU

?? Mastering Plyometric Progression: A Practical Framework ?? Effective plyometric training is not just about jumping higher or moving faster; it necessitates structured progression and adaptation. In his course, Eamonn Flanagan breaks down a four-phase plyometric framework designed to guide logical, reasoned decisions for athletes of all levels. But here’s the caveat: progression isn’t linear. Each phase—Foundation, Development, Realization, and Transfer—has inherent value, targeting different physical qualities and competencies. The goal? To build robust, reactive athletes, not simply rush them through arbitrary stages. ?? Assess, adapt, and adjust—because effective plyometric training isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about meeting the athlete where they are. Want to learn how to progress plyometric training the right way? Check the link out below ?? https://lnkd.in/eD-H288w

Managing recurrent hamstring injuries in an elite sprinter With Brice Pennicott - powered by VALD Performance Recurrent hamstring injuries are a nightmare for sprinters. Research shows that previous injury is the biggest predictor of future injury, yet many rehab programs fail to address the full picture. In this deep dive, Brice walks us through the case of a 22-year-old elite sprinter who battled five hamstring injuries over four years—each one setting up the next. What went wrong? What was missed? And how did they finally break the cycle? Key takeaways: ?? Why tendon healing times matter more than we think ??The role of biomechanics and asymmetries in injury risk ??How load management and sprint exposure influence long-term resilience This is a must-read for coaches, physios, and S&C practitioners working in sprint-dominant sports. Learn how to move beyond symptom management and create a system for lasting injury prevention. Want the full article? Check it out below: https://lnkd.in/eqx5KfHk

Are You Using Plyometrics Effectively? Jump and plyometric training can be a powerful tool for athletic development—but only if used with purpose. Yoeri Pegel's approach to jump training in team sports: Step 1: Reverse engineer sport-specific demands to tailor training Step 2: Categorize jump and plyometric exercises for better programming Step 3: Assess jump ability objectively & subjectively for targeted interventions Whether you’re enhancing robustness to reduce injury risk or building explosive movement qualities, how you implement jump training matters. Want to see how Yoeri applies this in real-world settings? Check the full presentation out here ?? https://lnkd.in/epCBKKgH If you want to learn more from Yoeri, check out his FREE article "Position-specific jump development for soccer goalkeepers" here ?? https://lnkd.in/eVCgy2WC

The line-up for the Sportsmith Return to Play Conference at the Intuit Dome, LA on 27-29 June is now complete. Congratulations to David Power & Carlos del Barrio who's case study submissions were selected and they will present at the event! Alongside them will be Enda King (who will also hold a pre-conference workshop on the Friday evening), Keith Baar Romain Tourillon Bill Knowles Matt Jordan, PhD Tim McGrath Alan Murdoch Maggie Bryant, Brady Green Robin Thorpe Fionn MacPartlin Tyler Lesher Loren Landow Jim Godin & Alex Calder What more do you want...? ? Spectacular location ? World-class speakers ? Unrivalled networking opportunities Join us! https://lnkd.in/e9Nh5ubD This event is powered bby VALD Performance PLAE Output Sports Exos & Teamworks Performance

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 McGrath 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 iTunes link: https://lnkd.in/ejuyfvmG Spotify link: https://lnkd.in/eAd6N3Mm YouTube link: https://lnkd.in/ewP2iVcb

Training Deceleration with Damian Harper, PhD Braking Complexes provide a structured way to develop the eccentric strength, reactive control, and technical execution needed to decelerate effectively in sport. Key braking complex strategies: ??Contrast – Alternates between high-load and low-load exercises within a set ??Ascending – Starts with low-load movements before progressing to high-load ones ??Descending – Begins with high-load exercises before shifting to low-load movements ??Adaptive – Uses an isometric exercise before a fast eccentric movement ?? French Contrast – A blend of heavy and light/moderate compound lifts, plyometrics, and assisted overspeed movements These progressive methods enhance an athlete’s ability to brake efficiently, absorb force safely, and transition back into explosive movement—all essential for reducing injury risk and improving agility. Want to implement Braking Complexes into your training? Check out Damian's full Sportsmith course "Testing and Training Deceleration Ability" here ?? https://lnkd.in/eY7HmKrg If you want to learn more from Damian, make sure to check out his free article on measuring deceleration capabilities too ?? https://lnkd.in/e9dtsXFb

Deceleration is a skill, not just a physical trait. Are we training it the right way? Too often, we focus on jump metrics (CMJs, RSIs) and strength measures when assessing deceleration ability. But does a stronger athlete automatically decelerate better? Not always. Testing alone won’t tell the full story. Performance should be the North Star—not just improving test scores. In this Sportsmith Premium Presentation, Hailu Theodros shares how he integrates movement skill and physical development to build elite-level deceleration in England’s Men’s National Football Team. You can view the complete presentation on Sportsmith Premium at the link below: https://lnkd.in/e9zSBK9t

Player-specific workload planning in women's pro soccer Now on Sportsmith Premium, from Gabrielle Smith We know that a forward's game demands differ from a center-back's—but what about the differences between two forwards on the same team? In player-specific workload planning, we move beyond broad positional targets and use GPS data to tailor training loads to each athlete's unique movement profile, playing style, and game workload. By setting individualized training intensities based on each player's peak game demands, we ensure optimal preparation, reduce injury risk, and improve overall readiness for competition. Want to dive into the methodology behind this approach? Read the full article on Sportsmith Premium! Check it out on the link below: https://lnkd.in/ej4Xfger