The Athletic Edge Podcast

#24 | Performance Therapy: Connecting Strength, Health, & Performance | Chris Guarin

Liam Evans — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:38:44 -0400

In this conversation, Liam Evans and Chris Guarin explore the complex definition of strength, emphasizing its multifaceted nature. They discuss how strength is not just about physical capability but also involves context, stability, mobility, and coordination. The dialogue highlights the importance of understanding strength in a broader sense, considering factors like timing and system coordination to prevent injuries and enhance performance.

Chapters:

Introduction and Background- 0:00:00
Journey to Performance Therapy- 0:03:00
Understanding Biomechanics and Neurology- 0:09:00
Communication and Language in Therapy- 0:15:00
Integrating Approaches for Performance- 0:21:00
Challenges and Insights- 0:27:00
Navigating Misinformation- 0:33:00
Future of Performance Therapy- 0:39:00

Links:

IG: @chrisguarin_

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @athleticedgepodcast for additional insights and content.

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#23 | The Metrics That Matter In Athlete Development & Pro Sport with Tanner Care

Liam Evans — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:09:56 -0300

Join the team! Evans Performance Online Training Information: https://evansperformance.my.canva.site/

Summary

In this conversation, Tanner Care, the director of performance for the BC Lions and Vancouver Bandits, shares his extensive journey in strength and conditioning. He discusses the importance of maximizing athletic potential, the transition from U Sports to NCAA, and the differences in training models. Tanner emphasizes the significance of individualization in training, long-term athletic development, and the evaluation processes for athlete readiness. He also highlights the importance of speed development, deceleration training, and the use of metrics to guide athlete development. Tanner concludes with insights on balancing professional and personal life as a coach.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tanner Care and His Journey
03:56 Transitioning from U Sports to NCAA: A Strength Coach's Perspective
11:10 Long-Term Athletic Development Philosophy
18:24 The Importance of Speed Development in Non-Track Athletes
24:00 Integrating Deceleration and Change of Direction Training
26:38 The Harmony of Skill and Physical Qualities
29:56 Metrics That Matter in Athletic Performance
34:42 Understanding Athlete Trends and Ecosystems
36:24 Navigating Athlete Buy-In and Health
39:34 Implementing Health-Focused Training
42:19 Game Day Preparation and Performance
45:34 Underappreciated Training Qualities in Experienced Athletes
47:45 Finding Balance in Professional Coaching

Links:

IG: @coach.care

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Thank you for listening! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on strength and conditioning with industry experts. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help us reach more listeners.

#22 | Building Stronger, Faster, Healthier Soccer Players with Malorie Henderlong

Liam Evans — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 07:47:37 -0300

Join the team!
Evans Performance Online Training Information: https://evansperformance.my.canva.site/

Summary

In this conversation, Malorie Henderlong, the women's soccer strength and conditioning coach at Auburn University, shares her journey into strength coaching, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with athletes and educating them about their training. She discusses the misconceptions surrounding strength and conditioning in soccer, the significance of individualized fitness programs, and the need for speed and acceleration training. Mallory also addresses the challenges of in-season training, the rising concern of ACL injuries in women's soccer, and the importance of preparing athletes for life after college. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the role of mental health and support in athlete development.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Strength and Conditioning Coaching
06:39 Navigating Strength and Conditioning Misconceptions
12:12 Preseason Testing and Conditioning Strategies
18:18 Individualizing Fitness and Conditioning Programs
25:24 The Importance of Speed and Acceleration Training
30:28 Managing Athlete Load and Fatigue
36:17 Strength Training and Injury/ACL Prevention
47:04 Life After College Sports
57:15 Building Relationships with Athletes

Links:

IG: @malorie_henderlong

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

#21 | Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses in Athlete Development with Josh Bray

Liam Evans — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:38:15 -0300

Join the team! Evans Performance Online Training Information: https://evansperformance.my.canva.site/

Summary

In this conversation, Coach Josh Bray shares his journey in the coaching profession, detailing his experiences and insights into athlete development. He discusses the importance of off-season programming, evaluating athlete qualities, and balancing strengths and weaknesses. Josh emphasizes the significance of play in sports, the need for adaptability in coaching, and the lessons learned from elite athletes. The conversation highlights the fluid nature of coaching and the importance of creating an enjoyable environment for young athletes.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Coach Josh Bray
01:19 Josh Bray's Journey in Sports and Coaching
04:47 Day-to-Day Life as a Strength and Conditioning Coach
06:30 Key Considerations for Off-Season Programs
09:33 Understanding Athlete Qualities: Bucketing and Archetyping
15:37 Differentiating Between Muscular and Elastic Athletes
18:35 Programming for Different Sports and Athletes
21:46 Training Structure and Consistency
24:15 In-Season Programming and Adaptability
30:55 The Importance of Play and Movement Quality
36:40 The Role of Early Specialization in Youth Sports

Links:

IG: @jbraythecoach

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

#20 | The Truth About Strength Training for Swimmers (And Why You Should Rethink It) With Jack Brown

Liam Evans — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 19:55:20 -0300

Join the team! Evans Performance Online Training Information: https://evansperformance.my.canva.site/

Summary

In this conversation, Jack Brown, owner of AquaStrength Performance, shares his journey into strength and conditioning, particularly focusing on training young athletes, especially swimmers. He discusses the growth of his business, the importance of communication with athletes and parents, and the challenges of balancing training with other commitments. Jack emphasizes the significance of enjoyment in training, dispels common myths about strength training for swimmers, and outlines his training philosophy, including the use of isometric exercises and sprinting. The conversation highlights the need for a tailored approach to training that prioritizes athlete well-being and consistent effort over rigid periodization.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jack Brown and AquaStrength Performance
02:49 Jack's Journey into Strength and Conditioning
05:40 The Growth of AquaStrength Performance
08:33 Navigating Business Challenges and Growth
11:28 Daily Operations and Training Structure
14:22 Balancing Training and Athlete Well-being
17:03 Adapting Training Models for Aquatic Athletes
20:16 The Importance of Enjoyment in Training
23:07 Volume vs. Quality in Swim Training
25:42 The Power of Enjoyment in Training
29:18 Understanding Athlete Fatigue and Recovery
33:38 Rethinking Periodization in Youth Swimmers
45:57 Debunking Misconceptions in Strength Training for Swimmers

Links:

IG: @aquastrengthperformance

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

#19 | Foundational Exercises, Tissue Remodelling, and Smart Programming with Joe Aratari

Liam Evans — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 16:25:01 -0300

Join the team! Evans Performance Online Training Information: https://evansperformance.my.canva.site/

Summary
In this conversation, strength coach Joe Aratari shares his extensive experience in coaching athletes of all levels, from youth to professional. He discusses the differences and similarities in training approaches, the importance of practical coaching in high school settings, and the integration of technology in strength training. Joe emphasizes the significance of monitoring athlete performance, the high-low training model, and essential exercises for young athletes. He also delves into the importance of recovery strategies, his philosophy on social media, and the structure of his online coaching programs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Coaching and Background
02:44 Training Youth vs. College and Pro Athletes
05:10 Practical Coaching in High School Settings
07:52 Utilizing Technology in Training
11:45 Monitoring Athlete Performance
13:39 High-Low Training Model Explained
17:17 Concurrent Training for High School Athletes
20:56 Essential Exercises for Young Athletes
26:11 Building a Strong Foundation in Youth Training
27:28 The Importance of Tissue Remodeling and Recovery
29:54 Social Media's Role in Coaching and Athlete Development
35:08 Navigating Online Training and Coaching Models
44:44 Engagement and Community in Strength Training

Links:

IG: @joearatari

X: @joearatari

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

#18 | The Evolution of Youth S&C, Training Through the Growth Spurt, and the Importance of Strength with Rhodri Lloyd

Liam Evans — Thu, 29 May 2025 09:02:45 -0300

Join the team! Evans Performance Online Training Information

Summary:

In this conversation, Rhodri and I discuss the importance of strength and conditioning for young athletes, exploring Rhodri's journey in the field, the evolution of pediatric strength training, and the shift towards specialization in coaching. They emphasize the need for well-qualified coaches, the significance of movement quality, and the impact of growth spurts on training. The discussion also covers the YPD model versus the LTAD model, injury prevention strategies, and the necessity of sampling different sports for youth development.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pediatric Strength and Conditioning 03:30 The Evolution of Youth Strength Training 06:32 Specialization vs. Generalization in Youth Sports 09:16 Qualifications for Youth Strength Coaches 11:59 The LTAD and YPD Models Explained 14:53 The Importance of Sampling in Youth Sports 17:51 Managing Early Specialization and Injury Prevention 20:22 Navigating Growth Spurts in Young Athletes 27:04 Understanding Growth Spurts in Young Athletes 30:50 Psychosocial Factors in Youth Training 34:50 The Importance of Strength in Development 39:14 Movement Quality and Injury Risk 45:27 Assessing Movement and Strength in Youth

Links:

Rhodri Lloyd: https://pure.cardiffmet.ac.uk/en/persons/rhodri-lloyd

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhodri-s-lloyd-9861a832/

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

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#17 | Effective Training Strategies for Young Athletes with Kevin Carr

Liam Evans — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 20:45:18 -0400

Summary:

In this conversation, Kevin Carr shares his extensive experience as a strength and conditioning coach, focusing on the development of young athletes. He discusses the importance of general physical development, setting standards for training, and the need for effective communication with both athletes and their parents. Kevin emphasizes the significance of plyometric progressions, managing training volume, and the long-term benefits of instilling a love for exercise in young athletes.

Chapters

Training Young Athletes: Goals and Approaches

Managing Overconfident Young Athletes

Movement Screens and Exercise Selection

Strength Training Progression for Youth

Bilateral vs. Unilateral Training: Finding Balance

Adapting Training During Growth Spurts

Plyometric Training: From Landing to Elasticity

Advanced Techniques: Incorporating Depth Drops

Managing Training Volume for In-Season Athletes

Conditioning: Timing and Implementation

The Benefits of Low Volume Training

Evolution of Training Practices at MBSC

Underrated Exercises for Young Athletes

Links:

IG: @kev_in_carr

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

#16 | Training Rotational Athletes with Joe Pedulla

Liam Evans — Sun, 19 Jan 2025 16:15:28 -0400

In this episode of the Athletic Edge podcast, I speak with Joe Pedulla, a strength coach at the University of Oklahoma, about his journey from working as a physical therapy aide to coaching collegiate athletes. Joe shares insights on balancing strength training with skill development, understanding an athlete's training age, and the misconceptions about strength’s impact on performance. We dive into topics like rotational power in softball, shoulder health, and innovative testing methods like the Ash test. Packed with practical advice for coaches, athletes, and parents, this episode offers valuable takeaways to elevate athletic performance.

00:00:18 - Guest Introduction: Joe Pedulla

00:01:27 - Joe's Background and Journey to Strength Coaching

00:02:44 - Experiences at NJ FAST and Kansas City Royals

00:04:50 - Differences in Training Ages Among Athletes

00:06:18 - Baseball and Early Specialization

00:08:08 - In-Season Training and Athlete Development

00:10:36 - Criteria for Assessing New Athletes

00:12:42 - Understanding Motor Preferences

00:13:42 - Force Plate Testing and Its Application

00:17:03 - Speed and Power Development in Softball

00:19:32 - Maximal Strength as a Foundation

00:22:09 - Rotational Power and Its Importance

00:25:55 - Shoulder Health and Injury Prevention

00:31:51 - Misconceptions About Strength and Conditioning

00:40:13 - The Role of Strength Coaches in Athlete Success

00:42:45 - Advice for Young Athletes and Coaches

Links:

IG: @pedullaperformance

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

#15 | Beyond the Sport: Humanizing Youth Athletes in Training

Liam Evans — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Athletic Edge podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with strength coach Ray Zingler, who shared his insights on youth athletic development and the importance of prioritizing the holistic growth of young athletes. Ray emphasized that the happiest and most successful athletes often have supportive parents who allow them to enjoy the game without pressure. He advocates for a generalized training approach over sports specialization, focusing on building a strong foundation of skills that will serve athletes well in their chosen sports.

Ray also discussed the significance of humanizing athletes, helping them understand that their worth is not solely defined by their performance. He shared his unique assessment methods, which prioritize observation and trust-building over overwhelming corrections. Throughout the episode, Ray debunked myths about strength training for young athletes, highlighting its crucial role in improving overall performance and fostering a lifelong love for movement. This conversation is packed with valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and parents alike.

Chapters

00:00:00 - The Emotional Landscape of Sports

00:01:44 - Introduction to the Athletic Edge Podcast

00:02:21 - Meet Ray Zingler: A Unique Journey

00:03:56 - Training Schedule and Structure

00:04:48 - Building a Coaching Team

00:05:49 - The Zingler Strength Experience

00:08:00 - General vs. Specific Training for Youth Athletes

00:10:20 - The Importance of Identity Beyond Sports

00:12:25 - Preparing Athletes for Life Beyond Sports

00:14:06 - The Dangers of Sports Specialization

00:16:04 - Communicating the Value of General Training

00:20:04 - Understanding the Consumer Perspective

00:22:10 - The Role of Strength in Athletic Development

00:24:01 - Addressing Parents' Concerns About Running Form

00:27:35 - The Importance of Movement Diversity

00:30:41 - Evaluating New Athletes: A Unique Approach

00:34:42 - Building Trust and Confidence in Young Athletes

00:36:45 - The Balance Between Theory and Practice in Training

Links:

IG: @zinglerstrength

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

#14 | Microdosing Strength Training: Elevating Volleyball Performance with Stephanie Mock Grubbs

Liam Evans — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 18:06:48 -0400

In this episode, Stephanie Mock Grubbs, assistant AD for sports performance at the University of Pittsburgh, shares her expertise in strength and conditioning, focusing on volleyball. She discusses athlete experiences at different universities, daily routines, and the importance of wellness check-ins. Stephanie covers initial assessments for incoming athletes, foundational training, and the significance of jump training.

She highlights the need for adaptability in coaching strategies, especially with NCAA roster caps. Stephanie introduces her innovative approach to strength training through microdosing, emphasizing its integration into daily routines and the benefits of a structured preseason. Additionally, she addresses shoulder care for overhead athletes, the role of testing and assessment, and offers advice for aspiring collegiate athletes on maximizing their opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Stephanie Mock Grubbs
05:59 Daily Life of a Volleyball Player at Pitt
12:07 Initial Assessments for Incoming Athletes
18:07 Jump Training and Performance Peaks
24:23 Understanding Microdosing: Benefits and Techniques
30:02 Movement Mastery: Balancing Coaching and Efficiency
39:58 Advice for Aspiring Collegiate Athletes

Links
IG: @coachstephmock
Email: smock@athletics.pitt.edu

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter (https://theathleticedge.beehiiv.com/subscribe) for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#13 | Fueling Young Athletes: Nutrition Tips for Optimal Performance

Liam Evans — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 05:01:00 -0300

In this podcast, dietitian Dan Richardson discusses nutrition for youth and adult athletes. Dan highlights the importance of education in establishing lifelong healthy habits. He addresses the challenges of under-fueling and the need for proper hydration, offering practical macronutrient recommendations and insights into sports drinks and electrolytes. Dan also covers pre- and post-match nutrition for optimal performance and recovery, emphasizing food timing and variety over strict meal plans. He mentions supplements like vitamin D, creatine, and protein powder, and advocates for the 80-20 rule in diets, encouraging athletes and parents to listen to their bodies and adjust as needed.

Chapters

The Importance of Nutrition Education for Youth Athletes
Addressing Under-Fueling in Youth Athletes
The Role of Hydration in Youth Athlete Performance
Understanding Macronutrient Intake for Athletes
Sports Drinks and Electrolytes: When and How to Use Them
Optimizing Pre-Match and Post-Match Nutrition
Optimizing Nutrition: Timing and Types of Foods
Post-Game Fueling: Importance of Carb and Protein Intake
The Role of Supplements in Youth Athlete Nutrition
Protein Powder: A Byproduct of Cheese Making
The 80-20 Rule: Balancing Nutrient-Dense and Fun Foods
Listening to Your Body: Individualizing Nutrition for Performance

Links:

IG: @drnnutrition

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter (https://theathleticedge.beehiiv.com/subscribe) for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#12 | From Middle School to the Pros: Mike Boyle’s Proven Framework for Athletic Development

Liam Evans — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0300

In this episode, host Liam Evans interviews Coach Mike Boyle, a renowned strength and conditioning coach with over 40 years of experience in the field. Coach Boyle shares insights into his approach to athletic development, focusing on youth athletes and the importance of starting training at a young age. He discusses his philosophy on strength training, performance enhancement, and long-term athletic development strategies.

Key Points

Coach Boyle emphasizes the significance of the "learn to train" phase in youth athletic development, highlighting the importance of fundamental movement skills.
He shares his experiences working with athletes across various sports, including hockey, baseball, and Olympic ice hockey.
The discussion touches on the role of parents in the training process and the importance of creating a positive training environment for young athletes.
Coach Boyle delves into the integration of strength training, plyometrics, and speed training in athletic development programs, emphasizing the need for proper progression and individualized training.

Chapters

Introduction to Coach Mike Boyle and his Background
Philosophy of Youth Athletic Development
Training Approach for Different Athletes (Middle School, High School, College)
Importance of Strength Training and Plyometrics
Utilization of Technology in Training
Addressing Parental Involvement and Expectations
Progression in Training and Monitoring Performance
Insights on Injury Prevention and Management
Integration of Speed Training and Power Development
Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Links:

IG: @michael_boyle1959 @mbscofficial

Mike’s youth training program: https://completeyouthtraining.com/

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter (https://theathleticedge.beehiiv.com/subscribe) for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#11 | Building Athletic Foundations: A Holistic Approach to Youth Athletic Development with Rob Anderson

Liam Evans — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0300

In this episode, host Liam Evans interviews Rob Anderson, owner of The Athlete Academy, a strength and conditioning business in Scotland focused on youth athletic development. Rob shares his extensive experience working with youth athletes and emphasizes the importance of starting training at a young age to build a solid foundation of movement skills. He discusses the significance of individual improvement, the balance between competitiveness and skill development, and the integration of strength and conditioning into sports training. Rob also highlights the need for a holistic approach to training, focusing on movement competency and gradual progression in complexity. The episode delves into injury prevention, age-appropriate training, and the importance of tying strength and conditioning back to specific actions in the sport.

Chapters

Introduction to Youth Athletic Development
Early Specialization in Strength and Conditioning
Balancing Competition and Individual Progress in Training
Baseline Testing and Progress Monitoring
Phases of Athletic Development Program
Addressing Injury Prevention and Management
Determining the Appropriate Age for Strength and Conditioning
Integrating Strength and Conditioning into Sport-Specific Training
Data Collection and Progress Reporting to Parents

Links:

IG: @_theathleteacademy

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter (https://theathleticedge.beehiiv.com/subscribe) for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#10 | Returning to the Game: NBA Physiotherapist Nikki Garcia on Injury Rehab

Liam Evans — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0300

In this episode, Nikki Garcia, a physiotherapist with the Toronto Raptors, discusses keeping athletes active during rehab by modifying activities. She emphasizes assessing risk with patients. Nikki covers common basketball injuries, explains various tendon problems, and offers injury risk and management tips. She highlights working with strength coaches, baseline tests, and knowing athletes' injury histories. Other topics include ACL rehab, core strengthening for back injuries, mind-muscle connection, and myths about the IT band.

Chapters

Introduction and Background
Modifying and Adapting Activities
Injury Prevention Strategies
Return-to-Play Process
Isometric Exercises for Pain Management
Collaboration Between Physiotherapists and Strength Coaches
Baseline Testing and Injury History
Mitigating the Risk of Injury: Addressing Asymmetries
Individualized Approach to ACL Rehab
Managing Lumbopelvic Injuries: The Role of Core Strengthening
The Importance of the Mind-Muscle Connection in Training
Clarifying Misconceptions: The IT Band and Stretching

Links:

IG: @nikkig.pt

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter (https://theathleticedge.beehiiv.com/subscribe) for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#9 | Fundamentals to High Performance: Volleyball Strength Training with Missy Mitchell-McBeth

Liam Evans — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0300

Missy Mitchell-McBeth, a seasoned strength and conditioning coach, discusses her book 'Developmental to Division One,' which serves as a guide for volleyball strength training. She addresses navigating the vast information available, the impact of social media on training, and the importance of fundamental movement skills, breathing mechanics, and core strength. Missy also covers plyometric progressions, proper landing techniques, and the role of the foot and ankle in jumping. She advises parents on supporting young athletes and underscores the significance of strength and conditioning in athletic development.

Show Notes:

Introduction and Background
Navigating the Overwhelming Volume of Training Information
Using Common Sense in Evaluating Training Videos
The Importance of Fundamental Movement Skills and Core Strength
The Importance of the Foot and Ankle Complex
Dispelling Misconceptions about Lifting Heavy Weights
Parental Support for Young Athletes
Prioritizing Strength and Conditioning for Athletic Development

Links:

IG: @missymmcbeth

Website: https://missymitchellmcbeth.com/

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#8 | Strength, Speed, and Self-Care: Erica Suter’s Guide to Female Athlete Development

Liam Evans — Mon, 27 May 2024 05:00:00 -0300

In this conversation, Erica Suter, a strength coach and author, discusses her background in soccer, her passion for strength training, and her work with young female soccer players. She explains best practices for strength training with a young female athlete population and give thoughtful advice on how to navigate the world of youth soccer.

Show Notes:

Passion for Strength Training and Performance Coaching
The Importance of Mental Development in Youth Athletes
Consistency in Strength Training to Prevent Injuries
Factors Contributing to ACL Injuries in Female Athletes
The Role of Nutrition, Protein, and Animal-Based Sources
Recognizing and Addressing Overuse Injuries in Young Athletes
Developing Proper Movement Patterns and Play-Based Movements
Improving Speed: Training and Genetics
Addressing Misconceptions and Prioritizing Nutrition and Self-Care During the Menstrual Cycle
Choosing the Right College Program: Considerations and Compromises
Prioritizing Strength Training and Self-Care from a Young Age

Links:

IG: @fitsoccerqueen

Website: ericasuter.com

Book: The Strong Female Athlete: A Female Athlete Guide to Improve Performance, Reduce Injury, and Increase Confidence

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#7 | Life of a Collegiate Athlete, Training High-Level Swimmers & The Benefits of Becoming a More Robust Athlete w/Arianna Luther

Liam Evans — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0300

In this conversation, I interview Arianna Luther, a sports performance coach at Bracy Performance in Chicago. We discuss Arianna's background in college athletics and her transition from the collegiate sector to the private sector. Arianna explains the importance of orientation, support systems, and foundational programs for freshmen athletes. We also discuss Arianna's approach to training swimmers and the challenges of working with a population that trains extensively in the pool and much more!

Show Notes:

Introduction and Arianna’s Background in collegiate sports
Her transition to the private sector
Expectations and schedules of collegiate athletes and where S&C fits in
The importance of having a foundational program for incoming athletes and what this includes
The difficulties of training swimmers and how she goes about training this population
The importance of micro-dosing speed and max velocity work for her athletes
How we can use the weight room to become more robust athletes and why it matters
The benefits of resistance training for athletes how to build buy-in

Links:

IG: @ariannaluther

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

Newsletter: Join my newsletter for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#6 | Understanding the Force System with Hunter Eisenhower

Liam Evans — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0300

In this conversation, Liam Evans interviews Hunter Eisenhower about his Force System. The Force System is divided into four pillars: high force, fast force, slow force, and human force. The Force System is a comprehensive training framework designed to enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risk. They dive into the methods and reasons for each pillar and give practical recommendations.

Show notes:

• Introduction
• The Four Pillars of the Force System
• Developing Elasticity with the Fast Force Pillar
• Building Strength and Stability with the Slow Force Pillar
• Individualizing Training with the Human Force Pillar
• The High Force Component
• The Slow Force Component
• The Human Force Component
• Tailoring the Force System to Different Sports and Training Ages
• Implementing the Force System with Triathlon and Non-Field/Court Sport Athletes

Links:

IG: @huntereis_sp

Web:

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

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#5 | Building Better Footballers with Abraham Armas

Liam Evans — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:44:02 -0300

In this episode, Liam Evans interviews Abraham Armas, a strength and conditioning coach specializing in training footballers. They discuss the important qualities for footballers, plyometric progressions, long-term athletic development, training sessions for youth athletes, strength training, training speed and acceleration, what separates a good program from a bad program, building buy-in with footballers, and the relationship with sport coaches.

Show notes:

Important Qualities for Footballers
Plyometric Progressions
Long-Term Athletic Development
Training Sessions for Youth Athletes
What Separates a Good Program from a Bad Program
Building Buy-In with Footballers
Relationship with Sport Coaches

Links:

IG: @armasdfw

Web: https://www.armasdfw.com/

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

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#4 | Empowering Youth Athletes: Creating an Impactful S&C Program with Tommy Hansen

Liam Evans — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0300

In this episode, strength and conditioning coach Tommy Hansen, discusses his background and experiences in the field. He emphasizes the value of internships, experience, and the challenges of training large groups. Tommy also highlights the importance of intent in training and the benefits of giving athletes autonomy. He shares his approach to engaging warm-ups and incorporating free play in training sessions. Additionally, Tommy discusses the significance of speed training in non-sprint sports and how to balance general and sports-specific training.

Show Notes:

Importance of Intent in Training
Autonomy in Training
The Importance of Engaging Warm-ups
Incorporating Free Play in Training
Balancing Sprints and Conditioning
The Importance of Speed Training in Non-Sprint Sports
Blending General and Sports-Specific Training
Increasing Swing Power and Shoulder Safety
Managing In-Season Training
Less is More Approach
Retention and Building Relationships
Impact on Athletes' Development
Benefits of Small Group Training
Addressing Concerns of Parents

Links:

IG: @tommy.hansen88

Web: perform4lifetrainingsystems.com

Connect with me:

IG: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.

About the Show:

Welcome to "The Athletic Edge Podcast," designed for athletes, coaches, and parents interested in all facets of athletic development. Join me and esteemed guests from around the world as we delve into game-changing tools and expert insights covering strength training, performance enhancement, and long-term athletic development strategies. Uncover the keys to elevate your athletic potential and build your Athletic Edge.

#3 | Strong Young Gunners: Arsenal’s Blueprint for Long-term Athletic Success with Des Ryan

Liam Evans — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Liam Evans interviews Des Ryan, the Director of Performance and Coaching at Setanta College and former Head of Sports Medicine and Athletic Development at Arsenal. They discuss topics such as long-term athletic development (LTAD), the Arsenal Arrow approach to youth athletic development, the importance of progression and mastery, building relationships with young athletes, fitness testing and monitoring, incorporating strength training in busy schedules, growth and maturation considerations, and the debate between sport specialization and sampling. The conversation explores the topics of early specialization vs. sampling multiple sports, managing workloads in early specialization and community sports, preventing burnout and overuse injuries, monitoring workloads and readiness to train, balancing intensity and conditioning in younger age groups, and long-term athletic development advice for parents and coaches.

Show Notes

The importance of Long-Term Athletic Development (LTAD)
The Arsenal Arrow Approach
Progression and Mastery in Youth Athletic Development
Building Relationships and Creating a High Challenge, High Support Environment
Fitness Testing and Monitoring
Incorporating Strength Training in Busy Schedules
Training Weeks at Arsenal Academy
Growth and Maturation Considerations
Sport Specialization vs. Sampling
Preventing Burnout and Overuse Injuries
Monitoring Workloads and Readiness to Train
Balancing Intensity and Conditioning in Younger Age Groups
Advice for Parents and Coaches

Connect with the guest:

Instagram: @desryan75
X: @deasun0

Connect with me:

Instagram: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.
Newsletter: Join my newsletter for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#2 | The Future of Football: Insights into Youth Player Development and Sports Science at Real Madrid Live Recording Repost

Liam Evans — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Javier Mallo (Former Real Madrid S&C coach) and Elena Isla (Team doctor for Real Madrid's U19 team, Head of Medical Services for Spanish Basketball Federation) explore sports science and youth player development in football. They discuss education and qualifications, movement quality assessment, and injury management. Topics include the evolution of fitness coaching, early specialization versus general development, and the role of sleep and nutrition in recovery. From strength training progressions to building player relationships, this episode offers valuable insights for football enthusiasts at all levels.

Show notes:

Education and Qualifications in Sports Science: Understanding the importance of academic background.
Assessing Movement Quality in Youth Players
Evolution of Fitness Coaching in Football: Adapting to modern demands in the sport.
Early Specialization vs. General Development: Finding the right balance for young athletes.
Managing Growing Injuries in Youth Players: Strategies for injury prevention and management.
Approach to Conditioning and Recovery
Importance of Sleep and Nutrition in Recovery
Progressions in Strength Training for Youth Players: Developing strength programs tailored to youth.
Building Relationships and Buy-In with Players

Connect with me:

Instagram: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.
Newsletter: Join my Newsletter for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

#1 | Mastering the Basics: Inside Alena Luciani's Approach to Athletic Development

Liam Evans — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Liam is joined by Alena Luciani, a strength and conditioning coach and founder of Training2XL. They dive deep into the world of strength and conditioning, particularly focusing on its importance in high school and college athletics. From discussing the transition from high school to college sports to addressing misconceptions in the field, Alena emphasizes the significance of qualifications, credible sources, and foundational movements in athletic development. They explore the nuances of creating effective training plans, the role of compound lifts, and their approach to strength training, offering valuable insights for athletes of all levels.

Show notes:

Importance of Strength and Conditioning in High School and College
Transitioning from High School to College Athletics
The Role of Strength and Conditioning in Athletic Development
The Importance of Qualifications and Credible Sources
Needs Analysis and Assessments
Creating a Yearly Training Plan
Sequence of Events in Training Program
Free Weights vs Machines
Approach to Core Training
Advice to Younger Athletes

Connect with the guest:

Instagram: @training2xl
Website: training2xl.com

Connect with me:

Instagram: Follow @evans.performance for additional insights and content.
Newsletter: Join my Newsletter for a deeper dive into the episodes and to keep up to date on the release of new episodes!

The Athletic Edge Podcast | Trailer

Liam Evans — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:29:14 -0400

Welcome to The Athletic Edge podcast. I'm your host, Liam Evans, strength and conditioning coach and owner of Evans Performance. This is a podcast tailored for athletes, coaches, and parents interested in every facet of athletic development. Join me and guests from around the world as we dive into game changing tools and expert insights covering strength training, performance enhancement, and long term athletic development strategies. Uncover the keys to elevate your athletic potential, drawing from trusted resources to safely and effectively navigate your training and build your athletic edge.

The Athletic Edge Podcast

#24 | Performance Therapy: Connecting Strength, Health, & Performance | Chris Guarin

#23 | The Metrics That Matter In Athlete Development & Pro Sport with Tanner Care

#22 | Building Stronger, Faster, Healthier Soccer Players with Malorie Henderlong

#21 | Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses in Athlete Development with Josh Bray

#20 | The Truth About Strength Training for Swimmers (And Why You Should Rethink It) With Jack Brown

#19 | Foundational Exercises, Tissue Remodelling, and Smart Programming with Joe Aratari

#18 | The Evolution of Youth S&C, Training Through the Growth Spurt, and the Importance of Strength with Rhodri Lloyd

#17 | Effective Training Strategies for Young Athletes with Kevin Carr

#16 | Training Rotational Athletes with Joe Pedulla

#15 | Beyond the Sport: Humanizing Youth Athletes in Training

#14 | Microdosing Strength Training: Elevating Volleyball Performance with Stephanie Mock Grubbs

#13 | Fueling Young Athletes: Nutrition Tips for Optimal Performance

#12 | From Middle School to the Pros: Mike Boyle’s Proven Framework for Athletic Development

#11 | Building Athletic Foundations: A Holistic Approach to Youth Athletic Development with Rob Anderson

#10 | Returning to the Game: NBA Physiotherapist Nikki Garcia on Injury Rehab

#9 | Fundamentals to High Performance: Volleyball Strength Training with Missy Mitchell-McBeth

#8 | Strength, Speed, and Self-Care: Erica Suter’s Guide to Female Athlete Development

#7 | Life of a Collegiate Athlete, Training High-Level Swimmers & The Benefits of Becoming a More Robust Athlete w/Arianna Luther

#6 | Understanding the Force System with Hunter Eisenhower

#5 | Building Better Footballers with Abraham Armas

#4 | Empowering Youth Athletes: Creating an Impactful S&C Program with Tommy Hansen

#3 | Strong Young Gunners: Arsenal’s Blueprint for Long-term Athletic Success with Des Ryan

#2 | The Future of Football: Insights into Youth Player Development and Sports Science at Real Madrid *Live Recording Repost*

#1 | Mastering the Basics: Inside Alena Luciani's Approach to Athletic Development

The Athletic Edge Podcast | Trailer

#2 | The Future of Football: Insights into Youth Player Development and Sports Science at Real Madrid Live Recording Repost