In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob talks to Head of Athletic Performance and recent World Cup winner with the Springboks, Andy Edwards. He emphasizes the importance of creating a close-knit team atmosphere, much like a family, where hard work and high standards are the norm. Edwards talks about his start at Saracens before moving onto the Springboks, and how maintaining consistency, along with making small but impactful tweaks in training, contributed significantly to their success.
Andy gives a masterclass in balancing data-driven decision-making with gut instincts, emphasizing the importance of understanding players beyond mere numbers. He shares insights into the pressures and exhilarations of leading the Springboks post-World Cup victory and the challenges of maintaining success in the international arena.
Central to the Springboks' World Cup victory were the strategic adjustments in conditioning, focusing on specific rugby positions, and trust-building through small-sided games. Edwards highlights the crucial role of clear communication, mutual respect, and a deep understanding of the game. He reflects on the sense of pride and the collective hard work that culminated in this triumph, marking a 19-year journey filled with unity and commitment to their country.
This episode isn't just for those who work in rugby but for anyone wanting to get an insight into a World Cup winning culture.
Main talking points:
#Bitesize - Barriers encountered by women in strength and conditioning with Sophia Nimphius, Brian Gearity and Lorena Torres
Optimising athlete recovery and managing load effectively across multiple sports with Carmen Colomer
Maximising resisted sprint training and speed training with youth athletes with Micheál Cahill
#Bitesize - How to maximise heart rate variability (HRV) data quality with Marco Altini
Blood flow restriction training: Applications in rehab, recovery and strength training with Stephen Patterson
#Bitesize - What is maximal aerobic speed (MAS) and how it can be used to programme conditioning with Nathan Heaney
Developing and maintaining an injury risk reduction strategy at the Kansas City Royals with Austin Driggers
How to develop an NBA player: Assessments, programmes and methodologies with Nathan Spencer
#Bitesize - Data visualisation principles with Johann Windt
Deceleration testing and training: Applying the research in college football with Joey Guarascio
#Bitesize - How to programme and coach resisted sprints with Håkan Andersson
Maximising the impact of RPE data and other subjective measures with Shaun McLaren
Science and application of velocity based training with Dan Baker, Lachlan Wilmot and Jonathon Weakley
#Bitesize - Managing tendinopothies with blood flow restriction training and isometrics with Luke Vella
Maximal aerobic speed vs. Tempo: Which is optimal for team sport aerobic fitness (?) with Nathan Heaney
#Bitesize - The current state of hamstring rehabilitation practice with Jurdan Mendiguchia
Maximising the use of eccentric training for sports performance with Pete Burridge, Mike Young and John Wagle
A critique of the “knees over toes” phenomenon and maximising cross training prescription with Nathan Kiely
#Bitesize - Managing and monitoring the menstrual cycle in World Cup winning athletes with Dawn Scott
Anaerobic speed reserve: Individualising conditioning in team sports with Phil Scott
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