The Average Not Average Podcast

In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew, Viktor Axelsen, and Ayush Shetty discuss their training routines, daily lives, and experiences in the world of badminton. They delve into the logistics of training together, the importance of consistency, and the dynamics of learning from each other. The conversation also touches on nutrition, recovery strategies, and the challenges faced by young athletes in the competitive landscape of badminton.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Training Setup02:50 Training Dynamics and Daily Routines05:49 Training with Peter Gade08:53 Ayush's Journey and Training Insights11:41 Training Philosophy and Learning from Each Other14:37 Match Preparation and Competitor Insights17:28 Future of Badminton and Personal Preferences20:20 Role Models and Inspirations23:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts30:39 Chilling Out: Relaxation and Entertainment33:28 Balancing Life: Training, Family, and Hobbies35:06 Napping: The Art of Rest and Recovery37:57 Tracking Performance: The Role of Technology in Training43:18 Running and Fitness: Training Regimens and Strategies47:57 Recovery Techniques: What Works Best for Athletes50:55 Food and Nutrition: Eating Habits on the Go52:43 Hydration and Preferences: Sparkling Water vs. JuicesFollow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

Ahmed Shahrazad Sani is an award-winning sports journalist from Malaysia, especially with his live coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympics. We delve into the state of badminton in Malaysia, as well as the character shown by players, media and everything in between in the world of badminton!

Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4QApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

In this episode of the Average Not Average Podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen discuss Viktor's rehabilitation journey after injury, the mental challenges of managing identity while not competing, and the decision-making process regarding his participation in the upcoming 2025 BWF World Championships. They also delve into new badminton rules, the launch of Viktor's new racket line, and the financial aspects of being a professional badminton player. The conversation wraps up with predictions for the World Championships and insights on how to grow the sport of badminton.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter

02:25 Rehabilitation Journey and Progress

07:51 Managing Identity During Injury

10:58 Mental Challenges and Routine Maintenance

16:19 Decision-Making Process for Withdrawal

21:52 Future Plans and Sponsorship Dynamics

24:32 Adapting to Change in Badminton

24:58 The Introduction of Shot Clocks

26:36 Umpiring Challenges with New Rules

28:13 Trialling New Match Formats

30:00 Excitement for the VA Range Launch

32:38 Engaging the Next Generation of Players

34:30 The Financial Landscape of Badminton

36:55 The Future of Badminton and Its Growth

39:24 The Best Viewing Angles for Badminton

41:40 Predictions for the World Championships

Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

In this episode of the Average Not Average podcast, CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen engage in a deep conversation with Christian Luque Manjon about his journey in badminton coaching, particularly his work with the Chinese National Team and his transition to consulting. They discuss the importance of individualised training, data-driven approaches, and the challenges of managing injuries in elite sports. The conversation highlights the evolving training philosophies in badminton and the need for education to improve athlete development. In this conversation, Cristian and Viktor discuss the competitive mindset of badminton players, the importance of visualisation techniques, and the mental resilience required for injury recovery. They explore the evolving training intensity and load management in badminton, the challenges faced during the transition from junior to professional levels, and the significance of individualisation in training programs. Additionally, they introduce the Z-Swing Academy, which aims to nurture future badminton champions through a scientific approach to training.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introductions

02:15 Why is Cristian in the UK

02:21 Experiences in China and Career Development

06:26 Transition to Consulting and Academy Development

10:37 Working with the Chinese National Team

12:30 Individualised Training Philosophy

16:52 Data-Driven Training Approaches

22:05 Managing Training Loads and Injury Prevention

25:35 Training Strategies During Competitions

26:15 Load Management in Badminton

30:02 Injury Management and Recovery Strategies

36:09 Mental Resilience and Visualisation Techniques

42:06 The Evolution of Training Methods

45:50 Balancing Competitive Drive and Personal Life

51:31 The Role of Sports Science in Rehabilitation

51:45 Coaching Dynamics and Player Development

54:38 Individualisation in Training and Player Autonomy

58:34 Cultural Influences on Coaching and Player Relationships

01:00:14 Transitioning from Junior to Professional Levels

01:02:33 Z-Swing Academy: A New Approach to Training

01:11:03 Investment and Structure of Z-Swing Academy

01:15:37 Building Trust and Connection in Coaching

Ben Beckman's conversations with Cristian Luque:

Ep 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQWRDFUszfc

Ep 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nMfU4N0sDI

Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

In this episode, Viktor Axelsen and CK Yew discuss various topics including the upcoming VA collection launch, CK's new marketing company - El Plan Studios, the growth of para badminton, and reflections on past matches. They also explore the importance of mental strategies in badminton, contract negotiations, and methods to enhance the fan experience. The conversation highlights personal growth, insights into the sport, and future aspirations for content creation.Time stamps00:00 Introduction and Current Updates02:58 VA Collection Launch and Sneak Peek05:56 CKU's New Marketing Company09:07 Podcast Journey and Improvements11:57 Recap of Previous Episodes17:58 Exploring Para Badminton21:23 The Comeback and Grip Strategies22:04 World Championships: Annual vs. Biannual Debate24:11 Memorable Championship Moments and Historical Context25:27 Contract Negotiations and Sponsorship Dynamics29:42 Umpiring Insights and Future Guests31:55 The Impact of Media on Badminton's Growth34:47 Training Mindset and Deception Techniques40:14 Techniques and Skills in Badminton42:00 Evolution of Playing Styles43:40 Memorable Matches and Experiences47:23 Enhancing the Fan Experience51:27 Engaging with Fans and FeedbackFollow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4QApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

We finally have Indian badminton superstar, Chirag Shetty, on The Average Not Average Podcast! Alongside Viktor Axelsen, CK discusses the growth, status and impact that badminton is having on India. Chirag also shares some funny stories of his doubles partner, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy as well as his opinion on whether Viktor could win a 2 vs 1 match against, women's doubles Olympic medalists, Chiharu Shida and Nami Matsuyama.Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4QApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

We finally have a full episode guest! We welcome Henrik Axelsen, Viktor Axelsen's manager and father, to the podcast to discuss and break down the processes they have gone through to build the empire they have today.

TRUST was a key word in this episode of the podcast, as was understanding the need to outsource and have experts around you, in addition to the hard work, commitment, and luck that go into it.

If you want to go fast, go alone.

If you want to go far, go together.

Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

CK and Viktor discuss the MOST Underrated skill that is crucial to ensure success in everything - the mental side of things. They discuss what they have experienced in both the sporting world as well as the business world alongside personal relationships too. Managing the mental load is crucial to success and what sacrifices are required too. Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4QApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_VwCK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

We finally have our first guest on the podcast! CK and Viktor Axelsen discuss the businesses in which they are involved, both within and outside the world of badminton, as well as how CK entered the world of media within badminton with some key takeaways. Both CK and Viktor also discuss how they are building their brands and how important it is to continuously invest in their own brands and the opportunities it brings.

Apologies for the shakiness of Viktor's camera! 😬🙏

Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/

CK Yew and Viktor Axelsen discuss Oatmeal Crimes & Rehab Times. Viktor dives deep into his injury and how he is doing post-surgery before both the boys move on to discuss some of their dietary choices, which involves some shocked (Pikachu) faces. This is also the first episode of The Average Not Average Podcast that went fully remote, as neither CK nor Viktor was travelling to tournaments at the time of recording. Enjoy!

Follow in on the conversation and follow on social media for more content.

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0BwlJdllHEuttY24Jbcrz8?si=d5-BYAQkSoG7pMhKdskf4Q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-average-not-average-podcast/id1797766159

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaveragenotaverage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxuJfUZRhZn4s5SDKoS_Vw

CK's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkmY5ThPy3GLINI0m06ffaQ

Viktor's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkuVto4oGsgdEisvXlUaHvg

CK's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckyew_official/

Viktor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viktoraxelsen/