Jump training & the importance of “deep tier” jumps with Matt McInnes Watson

In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is talking to Matt McInnes Watson about the critical role of jump training in physical development. Matt, a former high jumper turned coach, shares insights from his extensive experience in both track and field and team sports. He discusses how balancing a full-time job, part-time PhD, and starting a business has led him to develop a systematic approach to training athletes for dynamic movements.

The conversation highlights the significance of differentiating between various jump training modalities and understanding the reflexive components essential for propulsion. Matt emphasizes the importance of "deep tier" jumps as well as the need to not be obsessed with stiffness when coaching plyometrics and jumps.

Additionally, Matt touches on how jump training has been a fundamental element in managing momentum and energy effectively in track and field. His passion and expertise in improving dynamic movement are evident as he explains the distinctions between plyometric and non-plyometric movements, particularly how these affect tendon dynamics and force handling during jumps.

If you want to understand jump training from someone who has dedicated his life and business to this area, check out this episode.

Main talking points:

• The importance of "deep tier" jumps.
• Systematic approach developed for dynamic movement training.
• Importance of managing momentum and energy in training.
• Differentiation between jump training and plyometrics
• Significance of takeoff and landing in jumps.
• Plyometric vs. non-plyometric movements
• Categorising jump training