The Performance Connection Podcast

Paul Laursen | AI and Coaching: The Future of Individualized Training

In this episode, Dr. Paul Laursen joins to give his take and perspective on applying artificial intelligence to coaching and training. Paul shares his journey from Olympic hopeful to sports scientist, revealing how his pursuit of understanding optimal training led him to the intersection of AI and coaching.The conversation dives deep into how AI can solve one of coaching's biggest challenges: truly individualizing training programs at scale. Paul explains how his company Athletica uses machine learning to analyze athlete data and create personalized training plans based on individual physiological profiles. He introduces the concept of "twitchy" versus "diesel" athletes and explains how understanding these differences can revolutionize training prescription.For coaches working with limited resources, Paul provides practical strategies for implementing these concepts without expensive technology, including simple assessments like the anaerobic speed reserve ratio. This episode is essential listening for any coach looking to optimize their athletes' training while avoiding the pitfalls of one-size-fits-all programming.Time Stamps[3:00] - The HIIT Science BookDiscussion of the monumental task of creating a textbook that bridges science and practical application of HIIT across 20 sports.[9:00] - Introduction to AI in CoachingPaul explains his early fascination with training technology and how overwhelming athlete data led to developing Athletica's AI platform.[15:00] - Training AI Models and Avoiding "Garbage In, Garbage Out"Deep dive into how valid input data is essential for AI predictions and the importance of building on established sports science principles.[24:00] - Individualization: Twitchy vs Diesel AthletesExploration of how slow-twitch versus fast-twitch muscle fiber composition affects training tolerance, recovery, and optimal programming.[38:00] - Practical Application: Training the Right Energy SystemPaul reveals how 10-second on/20-second off intervals can achieve VO2max while preserving explosiveness in power athletes.[41:00] - Solutions for Resource-Limited CoachesPractical strategies for implementing individualized training using simple assessments like 40-yard dash and mile run times.[47:00] - Resources and Closing ThoughtsInformation on accessing HIIT Science courses, the Athletica platform, and future directions for AI in coaching.Guest BioDr. Paul Laursen is a world-renowned sports scientist and endurance coach with over 20 years of experience in high-performance sport. Originally from Vancouver, Canada, Paul completed his Bachelor's and Master's degrees at UBC before earning his PhD in Australia, where he spent two decades working with elite athletes. His research focuses on optimizing training adaptations, particularly through high-intensity interval training (HIIT).Paul served as the lead physiologist for the New Zealand Olympic team through the London and Rio Olympic cycles, applying cutting-edge science to help athletes achieve peak performance. He is the co-author of The Science and Application of High Intensity Interval Training, a comprehensive textbook that bridges the gap between research and practical application of HIIT across multiple sports.Currently, Paul is pioneering the use of artificial intelligence in coaching through his company Athletica, which uses machine learning to create individualized training programs for endurance athletes. The platform analyzes data from wearable devices to optimize training loads and recovery, making elite-level coaching insights accessible to athletes at all levels.Resources MentionedHIIT Science Book: hiitscience.comAthletica Platform: athletica.aiConnect with the ShowInstagram: @performanceconnectionpodcastLeave a review and share with your coaching networkThe Performance Connection Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition.

Alex Sarama | How to Develop Adaptable Athletes Using Skill Acquisition Science

In this episode, Alex Sarama joins to share his unique coaching philosophy when developing skillful, adaptable athletes. Drawing on ecological dynamics, constraints-led approaches (CLA), and differential learning (DL) his goal is to revolutionize player development.From his early coaching days in the UK to his NBA experience and global coaching journey, Alex discusses the limitations of traditional coaching methods and how modern movement science can help athletes become adaptable, dynamic performers in the heat of competition. Whether you’re a strength & conditioning coach, personal trainer, or sport scientist, this episode provides actionable insights into how learning and training should work hand-in-hand to optimize performance.Time Stamps:[06:00] Writing "Transforming Basketball"How Alex self-published a professional-level bookThe challenges of writing and organizing thoughts into a bookWhy the book became a springboard for his company[14:00] The Problem with Traditional Coaching ApproachesThe disconnect between coaching methods & movement scienceWhy repetition-based drills don’t build true skill adaptabilityBreaking the myth: More reps ≠ better performance[18:00] Implementing the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA)How skill is actually developed through dynamic environmentsWhy small-sided games are more effective than traditional drillsPractical examples of CLA in basketball development[25:00] Teaching Novice Players with CLA & Differential LearningHow to design training for beginnersTask simplification vs. decomposition—why traditional methods failReal-world coaching scenarios: Using DL & CLA to expand skill adaptability[33:00] How to Measure Skill Transfer & Performance GainsUsing film, analytics, and real-time adjustmentsWhy customized data and KPIs matter more than generic statsHow NBA teams should rethink their analytical approach[42:00] The Future of Coaching & Skill AcquisitionWhy sports is at the beginning of its "Moneyball" era for skill acquisitionThe importance of breaking silos between coaching, analytics, & performance scienceAlex Sarama is currently the Director of Player Development for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. He previously worked for NBA Europe based in Madrid, as well as Paris Basketball in the EuroCup and the Rip City Remix (the Portland Trail Blazers’ G League Affiliate).Alex is also the founder of Transforming Basketball. He is widely regarded as an industry-leading practitioner within the field of contemporary skill acquisition and more specifically, the usage of the constraints-led approach. His book, Transforming Basketball, was released in April 2024. He has delivered clinics in over 40 countries around the world and worked as a coach developer for numerous organizations and international basketball federations.You can follow Alex on Instagram and Twitter.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and follow The Performance Connection Podcast on Instagram!

Chris Colucci | Expanding Your Impact Through Developing and Honing Your Writing Skills

In this episode, we chat with Chris Colucci to explore the pivotal role of writing in the fitness industry. Chris shares his journey from personal training to becoming an associate editor at Testosterone Nation (T-Nation) and later, Breaking Muscle. Chris discusses the importance of writing skills for fitness professionals, covering topics such as structuring articles, targeting specific audiences, and the critical role of clear communication devoid of jargon. Chris also provides guidance on the evolving landscape of written content in the digital age, including the implications of AI-generated text. Finally, Chris delves into his new venture with former guest Shane McLean called The Write Spotters, where he and Shane aim to help fitness professionals refine their writing skills.[3:40] The importance of writing in fitness and career development[5:51] Debunking myths about writing[10:25] The skill of writing: tips and insights[23:18] Writing for different audiences[31:46] Understanding target audiences[38:59] Self-assessment and knowing when to publish[41:10] Conveying complex information simply[49:23] The impact of AI on writingChris Colucci is a career fitness professional. He was a personal trainer for almost a decade and his clients ran the gamut from competitive athletes to 80-year-old retirees. Over time, he transitioned from wearing the shirt that said “Trainer” to wearing the hat that said “Editor.” In his editorial roles at websites including T-Nation and Breaking Muscle, he fine-tuned training and nutrition articles from PhDs, RDs, DPTs, CSCSs, and some of the most prominent coaches of the last 20 years. His hands-on experience as a trainer allows him to work not just from a grammatical perspective, but from the point of view of a fitness professional whose readers include potential clients.If you are interested in working with Chris, visit The Write Spotters website. You can also follow Chris on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.You can get 25% off top supplement brands like Thorne, Designs for Health, and Nordic Naturals by creating a free account on FullScript.com.To stay up to date on episodes and guests, follow The Performance Connection Podcast on Instagram! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Evan Peikon | Understanding and Applying Contemporary Energy System Models to Create Better Conditioning Programs

How can understanding energy systems revolutionize your training methods? In this episode, Evan Peikon, an exercise physiologist and computational biologist who has worked with professional athletes, sports teams, and military special operations, joins to shed light on advances in our understanding of energy systems and what it means for training.We start by reviewing traditional energy system models and introducing a more integrated approach that reflects recent advancements in research and technology, helping to clear up confusion caused by differing terminology among coaches. Evan unpacks contemporary bioenergetics and redefines training approaches by highlighting the rapid and simultaneous processes of ATP breakdown, phosphocreatine restoration, and glycogen breakdown.Evan highlights the role of data science in professional sports, where teams use various performance and physiological metrics to enhance athlete performance. With insights from wearable technology that measures multiple physiological variables, coaches can make data-driven decisions to tailor an athlete's conditioning based on their individual limitations.Time Stamps:[9:24] How technology innovation is impacting sports performance training[11:39] The role of energy systems in tissue healing[17:15] Reevaluating the traditional view of energy systems and application to training[27:26] A contemporary model of bioenergetics[35:51] Cardiovascular adaptations to training and identifying athlete limitations[47:05] Valid assessment of an athlete's conditioning and application to team sports[54:06] Using physiological data for training program optimizationEvan Peikon is a physiologist, computational biologist, and entrepreneur. He spent seven years working with professional athletes, teams, and military special operations as a physiologist and data analyst before stepping away to focus on his startup company, NNOXX, where he is a co-founder and chief bioscientist.Evan holds a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary biology from Stony Brook University, a master's degree in medical physiology and pharmacology from the University of Florida College of Medicine, and a graduate certificate in applied data science. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in bioinformatics and computational biology at George Mason University.You can follow Evan on LinkedIn and Instagram, and sign up for his newsletter, On Human Performance.Get 25% off top supplement brands like Thorne, Designs for Health, and Nordic Naturals by creating a free account on FullScript.com.To stay up to date on episodes and guests, follow The Performance Connection Podcast on Instagram! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kirsten Thornhill | Demystifying the Regulation and Role of Cannabis in Health and Performance

This episode aims to unpack the multifaceted role of cannabis in human and sport performance. Joining the show is Kirsten Thornhill, who brings insight from both personal and professional experiences.Kirsten sets the stage by sharing her unique path to cannabis research and insights gained from her dissertation on cannabis use among active adults. She explains the evolving landscape of cannabis legality and its implications for athletes and consumers alike. Kirsten shares the complex relationship between cannabis use and exercise as she's learned the various ways athletes are incorporating cannabis into their training routines, from performance enhancement to pain management. Importantly, we dissect the therapeutic potential of CBD in contrast to its psychoactive counterpart, THC.The episode wraps up with a candid discussion on the necessity of credible cannabis education for both medical professionals and consumers. Kirsten emphasizes the crucial role of self-education and consultation with healthcare providers.Time Stamps:[6:21] Understanding cannabis research and terminology[11:35] Legality and standardization in cannabis use[27:25] THC use and its psychological effects[31:47] Cannabis use for pain management[37:53] Determining cannabis dosage for therapeutic effects[49:24] The potential role of cannabis in managing anxiety[55:43] The need for cannabis education in athletic performanceDr. Kirsten Thornhill is a seasoned physiology researcher and earned her PhD from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, where her dissertation centered on the use of cannabis among active adults for both performance enhancement and recovery. Her ability to translate complex research findings into accessible, layman's terms has not only fueled her career but also made her a valuable resource for companies, athletes, and active individuals navigating the intricacies of cannabis dosing and legal concerns.Kirsten's research journey began in the realm of exercise physiology. There, Kirsten was involved in conducting physiological tests and identifying the physical limitations of endurance performers. This foundation led her to a multifaceted role as a research assistant in the health, medical, and rehabilitation lab, where she engaged with occupational therapists, physical therapists, sports practitioners, and athletic trainers to explore preventative methods for recovery and performance, as well as the implementation of wearable technologies for assessment and diagnostic purposes.You can connect with and follow Kirsten on LinkedIn.Get 25% off top supplement brands like Thorne, Designs for Health, and Nordic Naturals by creating a free account on FullScript.com.To stay up to date on episodes and guests, follow The Performance Connection Podcast on Instagram! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.