Form Running or Interval Training- Which is More Effective?

Most runners utilize interval training, or alternating short and intense running intervals with recovery periods, to improve speed, endurance, motivation, and even to burn more fat in workouts. Running form drills are another method long utilized by track coaches to improve performance.  These drills are increasingly popular among recreational runners to help decrease injuries from technique.  But do they really help? This … Read More

Research Roundup: Improve Your Soccer Performance With Plyometrics and Sprint Training

Ever wondered how to take your soccer skills to the next level?  Footskills and tactical training are important, but adding plyometrics and sprint training give you the explosiveness to beat a defender to the ball.  This week’s study from the Journal of Strength and Conditioning  shows the effect of this training on youth soccer players.   The researchers divided young … Read More

Research Roundup: All About the Glutes

The glutes-  everyone’s favorite muscle.  Let’s be honest- there’s no song called “I like big calves and I cannot lie.”  Or “All about that neck” (no treble!).   But strong glutes don’t just look nice in jeans-  they prevent injury, improve performance, and increase running speed. Sadly, for the amount of attention we give our butts, the majority of us … Read More

Research Roundup- Success in Volleyball, Training Power in Hockey, and Return-to-Kicking Program for Soccer

Future Elite Success in Volleyball-  What does it take? A recent study  showed that tests of motor coordination (balance, jumping, lateral movement, and upper body coordination) in volleyball players were predictors of success in addition to the athlete’s height and vertical jump height.  In fact, these three tests were able to predict playing levels in volleyball players 5 years later.   … Read More

Research Roundup- Baseball Edition

Could hip strengthening help you become a better pitcher?  You bet it can!  Multiple studies (here, here, or even here) including this recent one, have shown that the hip muscles are active during baseball pitching.   The study also showed the importance of the muscles around the shoulder blade (the scapular stabilizers). The pitching motion requires total body strength-  Include hip and core strengthening in … Read More

Compression Socks for Marathon Runners- Do They Really Help?

Compression socks are popular among runners, who wear them to recover from long runs, races, or workouts.  The socks improve circulation in the diabetic population by stimulating blood flow.  Manufacturers claim that compression garments improves oxygen delivery, reduce lactic acid and prevent cramps in athletes.  But are these claims true?  Recently, the Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy published … Read More