In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob welcomes Gavin Pratt, the Director of Strength and Conditioning at the UFC Performance Institute.
This conversation offers an exclusive look into the world of neck strength training and testing protocols for elite UFC fighters. Gavin Pratt, with his extensive background in strength and conditioning, delves into the critical role of neck strength in the sport of mixed martial arts. He shares his expert insights on the unique challenges faced by UFC fighters and the innovative approaches employed at the UFC Performance Institute to enhance neck strength and prevent injuries. Gavin details the frequency, location and mechanisms behind neck injuries suffered across the UFC, highlighting the importance of more dedicated research and innovation in this area.
Listeners will discover the importance of neck training in mitigating the risks of concussions and neck injuries, which are prevalent in combat sports. Gavin discusses the specific exercises and equipment used in the institute, including the incorporation of tools like the iron neck, and how these are tailored to meet the demands of a UFC fighter's training regimen.
The podcast also explores the cutting-edge testing protocols used to measure and monitor the effectiveness of these training methods. Gavin sheds light on the integration of technology in testing, such as the use of instrumented mouthguards and biomechanical analysis, to gather data on the forces exerted on fighters during training and competition.
This episode is not just an insight into the world of UFC strength and conditioning but also a valuable resource for coaches, trainers, and sports scientists interested in understanding and applying advanced neck strength training techniques.
Main talking points:
#Bitesize - Testing changing of direction ability: Is it worthwhile with Alistair McBurnie and Tom Dos’Santos
Training the lower limb to improve performance and reduce injury risk with Colin Griffin
#Bitesize - Using run-specific isometric strength training with youth athletes and different populations with Alex Natera
Data science, data visualisation and evaluating the effectiveness of a programme with Johann Windt
#Bitesize - What impact strength actually has on speed with Peter Weyand
Debunking 5 myths on speed training and getting team sport athletes FAST with Pete Burridge
#Bitesize - How to evaluate sports technology with Xavi Schelling
Heart rate variability: What we know and how it can be used to inform training prescription with Marco Altini
Mental skills training: The untapped strategies to help athletes perform with Colleen Hacker
#Bitesize - Designing the optimal warm up with Rett Larson
Mentoring and building the skills needed to succeed in performance sport with Craig White
#Bitesize - Whoop vs Oura and which device to choose with Sian Allen
Coaching agility using a constraints led approach with Shawn Myszka
#Bitesize - Gym based assessments to help guide speed training with Ryan Grubbs
Linking a strength & power programme to a game model to maximise on-field performance with Shane Lehane
#Bitesize - Tackling common sleep problems in athletes with Luke Gupta
Training tendons: What really matters for performance and rehabilitation with Seth O’Neill
#Bitesize - Implementing Frans Bosch’s methods and the importance of hip lock with Leigh Egger
Data management & analysis: The essentials skills needed for the future S&C coach with Ryan Curtis
#Bitesize - Where to start when coaching speed to a new athlete with Les Spellman
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