loader from loading.io

Dr. Scott Frey: The Brain's Role in Athletic Performance

Becoming Ultra

Release Date: 05/01/2025

Adam Ludwin on the power of breath for performance! show art Adam Ludwin on the power of breath for performance!

Becoming Ultra

Scott has a conversation with Adam Ludwin who shares his entrepreneurial journey from founding Captify Technologies to discovering the transformative power of breathwork. He discusses the challenges of running a high-pressure business, the importance of self-awareness, and how he transitioned into creating fivepointfive, an app designed to make breathwork accessible and beneficial for everyone. Adam emphasizes the physiological and psychological benefits of breathwork, its role in education, and the necessity of teaching healthy coping mechanisms to future generations.  They discuss the...

info_outline
Season 16:30 Denise becomes an ultra runner in Mendocino! show art Season 16:30 Denise becomes an ultra runner in Mendocino!

Becoming Ultra

On this episode Denise shares her transformative experience running the Mendocino Coast Ultra. From her initial impressions of the beautiful coastal town to the challenges faced during the race, Denise recounts her journey. With insights from her coach Addie Bracey, the conversation highlights the importance of consistency, overcoming physical obstacles, and the emotional highs and lows of ultra running. Denise's story serves as an inspiration for anyone considering taking on such a challenge, emphasizing that the journey is just as important as the finish line. Chapters 00:00 Introduction...

info_outline
Henry Abbott and the new science of injury free sport! show art Henry Abbott and the new science of injury free sport!

Becoming Ultra

Scott Jones and Henry Abbott explore the importance of outdoor play, the evolution of sports, and the significance of injury prevention in athletics. They share personal anecdotes about their childhood adventures and parenting experiences, emphasizing the need for unstructured play in children's lives. Abbott discusses his journey as a sports writer and his recent work on biomechanics and injury prevention, highlighting the joy of movement and the relationships built through sports. They delve into various aspects of athletic performance, focusing on injury prevention, particularly ACL...

info_outline
Jennifer Conroyd of Fluid Running:  Staying fit through injury. show art Jennifer Conroyd of Fluid Running: Staying fit through injury.

Becoming Ultra

Today Scot interviews Jennifer Conroyd, the founder of Fluid Running, about her journey into the world of aqua jogging and how it can help runners maintain their fitness while recovering from injuries. Jennifer shares her personal story of training for a marathon while injured, the science behind deep water running, and the importance of engagement in workouts. They discuss common running injuries and how aqua jogging can be a beneficial alternative for maintaining fitness. Jennifer also shares success stories from users of Fluid Running, including an ultra runner who overcame a stress...

info_outline
Dr. Scott Frey: The Brain's Role in Athletic Performance show art Dr. Scott Frey: The Brain's Role in Athletic Performance

Becoming Ultra

On this episode,  Dr. Scott Frey discusses his journey from academia to the world of sports science, focusing on the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and athlete performance. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the brain's adaptability and how it can enhance training techniques for endurance athletes. The discussion also covers traditional sports psychology and how a proactive approach can lead to better performance outcomes. They discuss strategies for managing mental load, overcoming perfectionism, and navigating the emotional ups and downs of endurance events. The role...

info_outline
Season 16:29. Deidra shares her story of becoming and ultra runner!!! show art Season 16:29. Deidra shares her story of becoming and ultra runner!!!

Becoming Ultra

In this episode of Becoming Ultra, Deidra shares her inspiring journey to becoming an ultrarunner, detailing her training, race experience, and the personal growth she achieved along the way. From overcoming physical challenges like back surgery to embracing the beauty of the of Mendocino, Deidra's story highlights the importance of mindset and perseverance. She reflects on her post-race recovery and the lessons learned, giving some words of encouragment to other new runners out there!   Chapters 00:00 Deidre's Journey to Becoming an Ultrarunner 02:52 The Race Experience: Challenges and...

info_outline
Introducing coach Jackson Brill! show art Introducing coach Jackson Brill!

Becoming Ultra

In this episode, Scott Jones introduces Jackson Brill, a coach based in Bend, Oregon.   They discuss Jackson's background, his experiences in teaching and coaching, and his love for outdoor sports and trail running. Jackson shares insights about growing up in Boise, Idaho, and his educational journey in integrative physiology.  They discuss the balance between the art and science of coaching, and the differences between in-person and virtual coaching dynamics. Jackson shares his coaching philosophy, emphasizing simplicity and enjoyment in training, while also highlighting the...

info_outline
Season 16:28 Deidra's final call before taking on her first ultra in California! show art Season 16:28 Deidra's final call before taking on her first ultra in California!

Becoming Ultra

In this episode, Scott Jones and Deidra discuss her journey leading up to her first 50K race. They explore her training experiences, the challenges she faced, and the mental preparation required for such an event. Deidra shares her excitement and gratitude for the support she has received from her family and friends, as well as her strategies for race day, including nutrition and hydration. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mindset, community support, and the joy of running.   Chapters 00:00 Preparing for the 50K Adventure 03:02 Building Confidence and Overcoming Challenges...

info_outline
Season 16:27 Denise's hip scare and final call before Mendocino coast 50k. show art Season 16:27 Denise's hip scare and final call before Mendocino coast 50k.

Becoming Ultra

In this episode of Becoming Ultra, Scott Jones, Denise, and Addie discuss the journey of preparing for an ultra marathon, focusing on the challenges of tapering, dealing with injuries, and the importance of mindset. Denise shares her recent experience with an injury and how she is managing her nerves leading up to the race. The conversation also covers race strategies, nutrition, and the significance of having a support system throughout the training process.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 03:51 Tapering and Illness: A Common Challenge 06:47 Denise's Injury and Recovery...

info_outline
Season 16:26 Mendocino Coast 50k RD on all pre-race and race details you need to know! show art Season 16:26 Mendocino Coast 50k RD on all pre-race and race details you need to know!

Becoming Ultra

Today Scott and race director Sid discuss the upcoming Mendocino Coast 50K, focusing on pre-race nerves, logistics, course strategy, aid stations, and post-race activities. Sid shares insights on how to prepare mentally and physically for the race, emphasizing the importance of pacing and the unique features of the course. They also touch on the community aspect of the race and the support available for both runners and spectators.   Chapters 00:00 Pre-Race Insights and Nerves 03:03 Race Logistics and Packet Pickup 05:59 Course Overview and Strategy for First Timers 09:08 Aid Stations...

info_outline
 
More Episodes

On this episode,  Dr. Scott Frey discusses his journey from academia to the world of sports science, focusing on the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and athlete performance. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the brain's adaptability and how it can enhance training techniques for endurance athletes. The discussion also covers traditional sports psychology and how a proactive approach can lead to better performance outcomes.

They discuss strategies for managing mental load, overcoming perfectionism, and navigating the emotional ups and downs of endurance events. The role of technology in training is also examined, highlighting the potential distractions it can create. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds
08:54 Transitioning from Academia to Sports Science
16:55 Understanding Traditional Sports Psychology
23:56 Innovative Training Techniques for Endurance Athletes
32:03 The Impact of Mental Fatigue on Performance
39:00 Overcoming Perfectionism in Training
45:00 Navigating the Ups and Downs of Endurance Events
48:47 The Role of Technology in Athletic Performance
56:54 Personal Stories and Lessons from Endurance Racing

The Becoming Ultra Project