Summary

In this conversation, Tom Swales, a physiotherapist and strength coach, discusses the critical role of the nervous system in athletic performance and training. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the nervous system's functions, including its role in survival and energy conservation. Tom outlines effective training strategies for athletes, focusing on the balance between high and low training days, and the significance of self-awareness in monitoring readiness for training. He also shares insights on effective warm-up techniques that activate the nervous system and prepare athletes for optimal performance. In this conversation, Rockne O'Leary and Tom Swales discuss the importance of intentional practice in sports training, particularly for youth. They emphasize the need for engaging and fun training methods to keep kids interested. The discussion then shifts to the versatility of kettlebells as a training tool, highlighting their benefits for both rehabilitation and performance. Tom introduces his AMT framework, designed to help clinicians and coaches provide better care and training. The conversation concludes with a reflection on success and the freedom that comes from creating a structured and effective work environment.

Takeaways

• The nervous system's primary job is survival, influencing performance.
• Breath work is a powerful tool for manipulating the nervous system.
• High training days should follow a rest day for optimal performance.
• Self-awareness in athletes enhances training effectiveness.
• Warm-ups should start from the ground to activate the nervous system.
• Understanding the nervous system can lead to improved mobility and power.
• Athletes should monitor their readiness to train effectively.
• Experimentation is key to finding what works for individual athletes.
• Training should prioritize speed, power, and agility.
• Self-assessment can help athletes manage their training loads. Kids don't need to warm up the same way adults do.
• Intentional practice is crucial for building good habits.
• Engaging training methods can enhance kids' focus and enjoyment.
• Explaining the 'why' behind exercises increases buy-in from athletes.
• Kettlebells are versatile tools for both rehab and performance.
• Kettlebells provide immediate feedback on form and technique.
• Investing in personal development is always worthwhile.
• A structured system can improve clinical outcomes and patient care.
• Success is defined by the freedom to pursue what you love.
• Creating a positive culture is essential for business growth.

Sound Bites

• "The nervous system controls everything."
• "High days are best after a day of rest."
• "Self-awareness is key for athletes."
• "Warm up from the ground up."
• "Pay attention to how your body feels."
• "Just tell them the why."
• "The kettlebell offers so much more."
• "It trains all the acceleration muscles."
• "We’ll save that for a part two."

Tom Swales:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCALBzKs5vP1f1BswOpaesYg

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swales.tom/?hl=en

AMT Certification: https://www.amtcertified.ca/

The Vertigo Centre: 

https://thevertigocentre.com/