Optimising strength and conditioning for combat athletes with Duncan French, Danny Wilson and Rhys Ingram

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of combat sports, specifically boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA), and the critical aspects of training and preparation that underpin these intense disciplines.

Our expert panel includes Duncan French, from the UFC Performance Institute, Danny Wilson, Co-founder of Boxing Science, and Rhys Ingram, formerly of GB Taekwondo and currently with GB Cycling.

They kick off the discussion by emphasizing the importance of multidisciplinary teams in supporting athletes, including strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapists, and nutritionists. The challenge lies in orchestrating these diverse experts to work cohesively for the benefit of the athlete.

The panel explores various training philosophies, particularly when it comes to building strength and power in combat sports athletes. The focus here is on lower body impulse and trunk muscle mass as significant contributors to punching power. Training strategies include lower force, high-velocity movements, and max strength development.

Assessments play a pivotal role in athlete profiling, with tests like countermovement jumps, drop jumps, isometric mid-thigh pulls, and peak plantar flexion tests providing insights into an athlete's ability to generate force quickly and efficiently.

The conversation also delves into situational training, where athletes are exposed to unorthodox and challenging scenarios to prepare them mentally and physically for fights. This approach helps athletes develop mental toughness and resilience, crucial for success in combat sports.

Finally, the experts address the complex issue of weight cutting and management. They stress the importance of distinguishing between chronic weight descent and acute weight cutting, offering valuable insights into the science and methodology behind effective weight management. The discussion touches on the significance of day-before weigh-ins and the duty of care toward athletes.

This episode provides an in-depth look at the intricate world of combat sports training, profiling, situational training, and weight management, offering valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts alike.

Main talking points:

• Utilising multidisciplinary team support.
• Focusing on lower body impulse for power.
• Which assessments to use to inform programming.
• How to build mental and physical resiliance
• Weight management and acute cutting.
• Day-before weigh-ins and athlete care