How to use force plates effectively: An expert roundtable with Phil Graham-Smith, Matt Jordan and Paul Read

In episode #499 of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is joined by guests Enda King, Ed Gannon, and Steve Short to delve into the intricacies of preventing and managing groin injuries. They emphasize the importance of monitoring and managing training loads, particularly during transitions from pre-season to in-season phases. The discussion highlights the need for regular assessments of range of motion, neuromuscular status, and strength, coupled with close communication with athletic training staff and massage therapists. The conversation covers how groin injuries often stem from asymmetries, stressing the necessity of identifying and managing these imbalances. This includes assessing load, function, and tissue tolerance during rehabilitation, and recognizing that asymmetry can vary by sport and individual. The guests also address the identification of high-risk players and the early warning signs of groin pain. They discuss strategies for mitigating risk, such as investigating markers like range of motion and hip strength, and implementing conservative training loads and reactivation exercises. Effective rehabilitation involves focusing on hip and trunk control, monitoring activities that provoke injury, and following a structured five-phase strategy for adductor strains. Furthermore, the podcast touches on the importance of individualized rehabilitation, taking into account each athlete's specific deficits and symptoms. They discuss the utility of various testing and monitoring methods, including unilateral long lever assessments and cutting assessments, to identify and address the root causes of groin injuries. In summary, the podcast underscores the necessity of a comprehensive approach involving regular monitoring, individualized rehabilitation strategies, and effective communication among all stakeholders to effectively prevent and manage groin injuries in ice hockey players. Main talking points: Assess range of motion and strength regularly. Identify and manage athlete asymmetries. Assess load, function, and tissue tolerance. Focus on hip and trunk control. Use a five-phase rehab strategy.Individualize rehabilitation for specific deficits. Utilize long lever assessments. Monitor activities provoking groin injuries.

In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob sits down with Physiotherapist and Head of the Assessment Lab at Aspetar, Roula Kotsifaki to delve into the critical role of technology and specific testing protocols in determining an athlete's readiness to return to play after an ACL injury. Roula emphasizes the importance of measuring asymmetries, movement quality, and strength to prevent future injuries. Key highlights include the construction of sensitive testing protocols to measure key competencies. Roula discusses the significance of hop tests and jump tests in identifying asymmetries and the role of landing variability in ACL rehabilitation. She highlights the use of 3D force plates and cameras to accurately assess power metrics and joint contributions during vertical and horizontal jumps, which are crucial for evaluating an athlete's readiness. Roula also details which metrics we should trust and which we shouldn't, and that includes her questioning the use of rate of force development related metrics. Furthermore, Roula stresses that successful return to play after ACL surgery requires comprehensive rehabilitation and shouldn't be determined by a timeline. Just because you are at 9-months post surgery, it doesn't mean that you're ready. Being "ready" should be based on achieving specific competencies. Listeners can gain insights into the best practices for ACL rehabilitation, the use of technology in assessing readiness, and the critical metrics for ensuring a safe and effective return to play. Key points: Importance of technology in ACL rehabilitation. Measure asymmetries to prevent future injuries. Choosing sensitive testing protocols. Hop tests options. 3D force plates assess joint contributions. Problems with rate of force development metrics. Comprehensive rehab before returning to sport. Why the minimum 9 month timeframe for ACL recovery

On this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to 3 experts when it comes to the research and application of force plates, Phil Graham-Smith, Matt Jordan and Paul Read. The converation starts off with Phil diving into how we choose a force plate and what are our options to ensure we are choosing the right technology for our needs. Phil highlights the importance of having a clear objective when selecting force plates, as knowing what and why we are testing is crucial for effective usage. The experts discuss the benefits of using dual force plates for tracking asymmetries in athletes, which is particularly useful in rehabilitation scenarios. This approach not only helps in pinpointing discrepancies but also in enhancing overall performance by ensuring both sides are equally developed. Listeners will also discover the importance of instantaneous feedback and robust data analysis provided by force plate software. Such features are integral for integrating with other measurement devices and offer real-time insights that can dramatically influence training decisions. Jump mechanics are another focal point of the discussion, illustrating how jump height, ground contact time, and the duration of eccentric and concentric phases are pivotal metrics for measuring athlete fatigue and performance. Understanding these metrics within a standardized framework helps in effectively interpreting the data and making informed training adjustments. The podcast also covers practical techniques, such as the hands-on hips method, to ensure consistent and reliable data collection during jump tests. Furthermore, the discussion extends to how force plates can aid in classifying ACL injuries through detailed analysis of jump measures and mechanical variables, providing invaluable support in rehabilitation and training regimes. Towards the end of the podcast, the conversation shifts to the importance of selecting the most reliable metrics and avoiding those that are less consistent, such as the rate of force development. The experts stress focusing on metrics with a strong biological basis and high repeatability to ensure the data collected is both accurate and useful. This episode is an indispensable resource for coaches, athletes, and sports scientists eager to leverage advanced technology to enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries. Main talking points: Understand various force plate types for specific needs. Clearly define testing objectives for effective force plate use. When to and when not to monitor athlete asymmetries. Instant feedback, robust data analysis enhance training decisions. Measure athlete fatigue and performance with key metrics. Standardize data interpretation using a consistent framework. Force plates classify ACL injuries through jump analysis. Prioritize reliable metrics, avoid inconsistent rate of force development. Focus on metrics with strong biological basis, repeatability. Adjust training based on individual and sport-specific demands.

In episode 496 of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is talking to Mitch Cholewinski, Coordinator of Football Sports Science at the University of Nebraska. Mitch starts off with detailing his unusual route into sports science and explains how he applies process dynamics from chemical engineering to manage and optimize athlete training regimens through flowcharts and decision trees. His work at the Nebraska Athletics Performance Lab focuses on biomechanics and sports science, where he has been instrumental in expanding the sports science department. Mitch emphasizes the importance of educating athletes on data collection and the use of new recovery resources like sauna, red light therapy, and sensory deprivation float tanks, ensuring athletes take an active role in their recovery processes. The podcast also covers how Mitch collaborates with strength coaches and integrates with the strength staff to enhance recovery and performance using data-driven methods. He utilizes visual aids and quick communication methods to address performance issues in real-time, fostering a proactive approach to athlete management. This episode is a unique insight into sports science provision at a division 1 football programme. Check it out. Main talking points: Integrating engineering principles into sports science Expand sports science departments strategically. Educate athletes on data collection importance. Involve athletes in performance decision-making. Ensure athlete ownership of recovery processes. Collaborate with strength coaches and specialists. Use visual aids for real-time performance feedback. Implement new recovery tools during fall camp. Foster athlete participation in recovery and training.

In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Consultant, Physio and Biomechanist at the Manchester Institute of Health and Performance, Chris Bramah. Delving into the intricacies of running mechanics, Chris explains the crucial connection between specific movement patterns and the risk of hamstring injuries. Through his expertise, listeners gain an understanding of how lumbar-pelvic control, backside mechanics, and overstriding play pivotal roles in athlete health and performance. The conversation further explores the cutting-edge technology of 3D biomechanics assessments, highlighting their application in elite sports environments including Premier League football clubs, to optimize rehabilitation strategies and return-to-play decisions. Chris then introduces the Sprint Mechanics Assessment Score (S-MAS), a novel, simplified tool he developed—a 12-item score that utilizes basic camera setups to assess movement mechanics effectively during athletes' warm-ups. This tool is designed to enhance the confidence of practitioners in diagnosing and addressing potential issues. The discussion touches on the future of biomechanical assessments in sports, emphasizing the promising yet still evolving role of artificial intelligence and motion capture technologies. Chris shares his holistic approach to integrating clinical research with practical experience, aiming to create a broader impact on patient outcomes and advance the field of sports medicine. Main talking points: The role of 3D biomechanics in rehab and return-to-play. Running mechanics' impact on hamstring injury risks. Sprint mechanics Assessment Score (S-MAS) Lumbo-pelvic control and overstriding prevention. Avoiding S-MAS set up issues Use of AI and motion capture in future assessments. Integrating clinical research with practical applications.

In episode #494 of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Senior Lecturer in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy at the University of Notre Dame, Brady Green for a detailed exploration of calf injuries, particularly their high prevalence and recurrence in elite sports. Brady sheds light on the limited research surrounding the initial risk factors for calf strains, emphasizing the necessity for focused prevention and effective rehabilitation strategies. The conversation begins with an overview of how prevalent calf injuries are in sports like Australian rules football and track and field, noting the challenges in reducing their incidence despite ongoing efforts. Brady points out that older athletes and those with a history of previous calf strains are particularly susceptible to future injuries. He suggests that targeted prevention through high-load strengthening and isometric exercises can induce structural adaptations that help mitigate these risks. The podcast delves into the specifics of screening and testing for calf injury prevention and rehabilitation. It highlights the importance of strength testing in both seated and standing positions, the relevance of dorsiflexion, proper alignment, and the use of a metronome to standardize tests for running-based athletes. Further discussion focuses on the need for dynamic function testing and training, including reactive strength endurance and horizontal force production, to fully understand and cater to the calf’s range of capacities. Brady emphasizes the biomechanical roles of the calf and the necessity of addressing impairments not just in the calf but also in the thigh, hip, and pelvis to prevent overload injuries. The podcast concludes with strategies for early loading and strengthening of synergist muscles, progressing towards dynamic activities that focus on force and velocity components essential for calf injury rehabilitation. It also covers the critical steps of a thorough process for returning to play, including monitoring strength markers and assessing non-quantifiable factors like recovery and range of motion. Finally, Brady touches upon an international collaboration project aimed at preventing calf injuries which includes some of the biggest organisations across the world. You can check Brady out at the Sportsmith Rehab Conference on 12-13 October. Main talking points: Calf injuries prevalent, high recurrence in elite sports. Older age, previous strains major risk factors. High-load strengthening, isometrics mitigate injury risks. Screening includes seated, standing strength testing. Dorsiflexion, alignment critical in testing protocols. Benchmarks: 20-22 calf raises to failure. Address biomechanics in thigh, hip, pelvis. Early loading, synergist muscle strengthening essential. Dynamic function testing for comprehensive rehab. Monitor strength, assess non-quantifiable factors for return

In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Head of Performance at Rangers FC, Tom Taylor. Tom discusses the integration of speed training principles from various sports into soccer to enhance acceleration, max velocity, movement efficiency, and injury prevention among players. In this episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Head of Performance at Rangers FC, Tom Taylor. Tom discusses the integration of speed training principles from various sports into soccer to enhance acceleration, max velocity, movement efficiency, and injury prevention among players. The episode delves into the application of speed training in soccer, revealing how Premier League clubs are engaging experts from other sports to refine their training routines. Tom highlights the importance of a collaborative approach in rehab and recovery, where strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapists, and other specialists come together to optimize the rehabilitation processes. This synergy not only fills knowledge gaps but also empowers coaching professionals to learn from hands-on experiences and mistakes. Taylor also discusses the necessity of adapting soccer training to meet the increasing physical demands of the game, focusing on maintaining high intensity and ensuring effective recovery. He stresses the significance of tailoring training and rehabilitation programs to the unique needs and movement patterns of each player, which is crucial for achieving optimal performance and managing injuries effectively. If you're working in team sports and want to translate knowledge from other environments into your own, check out this episode from Tom. Main talking points: Integrating speed training knowledge from various sports into soccer. Enhancing movement. Prevention of injuries through well-timed high speed exposures Use collaborative approaches in rehab. Learn from hands-on experience and mistakes. Develop individualized training and rehab programs. Address unique player needs and movement patterns. The fast to fit approach to rehab

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

In thi episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is joined by Joey Bergles, Director of Strength & Conditioning at JJ Pearce High School. In this podcast, Joey shares invaluable insights gained from his experiences in Dallas's public schools, his own business, and online coaching platforms. Joey highlights the importance of an open mindset, the challenge of balancing overpacked sports schedules, and the critical role of specialized coaching in fostering athletic growth. Joey delves into the mechanics of speed training, discussing the balance between acceleration and maximum velocity, the nuances of warm-up routines, plyometrics, and technical drills, and the imperative of consistent, quality training. He sheds light on the often overlooked yet foundational aspects of athletic development, such as technique refinement, explosive power enhancement, and the cultivation of a dedicated mindset among young athletes. This podcast is a must-listen for coaches, parents, and young athletes alike, seeking to unlock their potential and navigate the complex landscape of youth sports with grace, effectiveness, and an eye toward the future. Join us as Joey Bergles shares his journey, offering a roadmap to success in athletic development and beyond. Main talking points: Long-term improvement in youth speed training. Overcoming overpacked sports schedules. Unconventional training's impact on performance. Skill development vs. game play emphasis. Acceleration and max velocity in training. Importance of warm-up, plyometrics, and technical drills. Consistent, quality training for progress. Balancing expectations with effective training methods.

This week on the Pacey Performance Podcast, Rob is speaking to Brent Callaway, Anthony Hobgood and Nic Hill who are all part of EXOS. This podcast dives deep into the essence of sprinting, guiding you through an exclusive look at how EXOS, with its 11 locations worldwide, builds fast athletes. Brent, Anthony and Nic offer insights into the challenges of translating track skills to football, the intricacies of load management, and the crucial balance of strength conditioning with game preparation. Volume control, quality over quantity, and a focus on high-frequency leg action are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive into the technical aspects of biomechanics, the significance of individualized programming, and how EXOS leverages sport science to tailor each athlete's training plan. Witness firsthand the remarkable transformation of Xavier Worthy, who shattered the 40-yard dash record, a testament to the effectiveness of EXOS's methodology. Whether you're an aspiring athlete eager to unlock your speed, a coach looking to refine your methodology, or simply a sports enthusiast fascinated by the science of performance, there's something here for you. Main talking points: NFL combine preparation insights. Importance of volume control in training. Customizing training for individual needs. Biomechanics and physics in speed coaching. Success stories: Xavier Worthy's record-breaking sprint. Integrating nutrition and physical therapy