Optimising Human Performance

In this episode of Optimising Human Performance, Martin I. Jones and Jonpaul Nevin sit down with Dr Duncan French, Senior Vice President of the UFC Performance Institute, to explore what it really takes to prepare fighters, and other high‑stakes performers, to operate in chaos.Dr French leads the global high‑performance operation for over 700 UFC athletes, with Performance Institute facilities in Las Vegas, Shanghai, and Mexico City. With more than 20 years of experience across 40+ professional and Olympic sports, he has previously served as the Director of Performance Sciences at the University of Notre Dame and as the Technical Lead for Strength & Conditioning at the English Institute of Sport. He is widely recognised for his expertise in strength and conditioning, training transfer, and performance optimisation.Across the conversation, we cover:How strength and conditioning has evolved over the last 20+ years in the UK and USWhat a truly multidisciplinary high‑performance system looks like inside the UFCThe “law of thirds” of athlete buy‑in, and how to work with fighters who “know best”Why MMA is one of the most complex sports to prepare for, and how the UFC PI breaks it downThe cultural challenge of over‑training, red‑lining every session, and chasing “more”How simple human conversations (“How are you today?”) often beat fancy technologyThe role and limits of performance tech, and why some metrics can do more harm than goodWhat other high‑stakes organisations – including the military and police – can learn from MMAGuest, Cast & CrewHosted by Martin I. Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Produced & edited by Bess ManleyResourceshttps://www.ufcpi.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr_duncan_french/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-french-phd-a41bb9122/Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review.  If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at info@ophp.co.uk or connect with us on LinkedIn.    Chapters00:52 The Challenges of Combat Sports01:59 Duncan French's Background and Role03:51 Evolution of Strength and Conditioning05:45 Multidisciplinary Approach at UFC Performance Institute09:08 Fighter Mentality and Buy-In13:07 Human Performance Optimization in Military and Sports18:47 Year-Round Training and Readiness24:40 Physiological and Psychological Demands of MMA31:04 The Double-Edged Sword of Training Intensity32:27 Evolution of Fighters: From Brawlers to Technicians33:32 The FMA Model: Fighter, Martial Artist, Athlete35:12 Military Training and MMA: Cross-Disciplinary Insights38:05 The Role of Technology in Performance Monitoring44:00 Humanistic Approach in Sports Science46:52 Challenges in Fighter Training and Recovery49:39 Managing Overreaching and Allostatic Load57:31 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

Join hosts Martin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin for Series 3, Episode 4 of the Peak Potential podcast by OpHP (Optimal Human Performance). This episode features renowned performance psychologist Dr Dave Collins, who shares expert strategies for maximising human performance through psychological skills. Discover how elite athletes, coaches, and high-stakes professionals can harness the power of the brain, mental imagery, and quality practice to achieve excellence under pressure.Key Topics CoveredPsychological skills for peak performanceThe role of the brain in elite performanceTalent identification and developmentThe impact of quality practiceImagery techniques, including PETTLEP imageryOvercoming trauma and building resilienceAdaptability, continuous learning, and critical reflectionCoaching strategies for high-pressure environmentsAbout Dr Dave CollinsDr Dave Collins is a leading expert in sport and performance psychology. With decades of experience, he has worked with over 70 World or Olympic medalists and professional teams. Dave is a Professorial Fellow at the University of Edinburgh and Director at Grey Matters Performance Ltd. He specialises in developing individuals and teams to perform under pressure and has coached at the national level in three sports.Grey Matters Performance ConsultancyDave Collins on LinkedInDave’s academic researchSport Skill Acquisition BookSport Psychology Essentials (Book)ChaptersDave’s Journey from Military to PsychologyThe Importance of the Brain in PerformancePsychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence (PCDEs)Defining Excellence in High-Stress ContextsQuality Practice and Its ImpactTalent Identification and DevelopmentTransitioning Skills Across DomainsThe Power of Imagery in SportsUnderstanding and Applying PETTLEP ImageryThe Rocky Road HypothesisCoaching Strategies and FlexibilityMaintaining Skills and Continuous ImprovementFinal Thoughts and ReflectionsResources & ContactEmail Dr Dave Collins: dave@greymattersuk.comContact OpHP: info@ophp.co.ukVisit OpHP WebsiteListen & SubscribeDon’t miss expert interviews on optimizing human performance. Subscribe to Peak Potential on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others discover evidence-based strategies for high performance.

How can athletes train smarter for long-term success? Performance coach Chris Tombs joins host Martin Jones to discuss how to build physically and psychologically resilient athletes. With more than 30 years of experience in elite sport and military performance, Chris shares insights on sustainable training, recovery, and human connection in coaching.The conversation covers velocity-based training, reducing orthopaedic stress, and maintaining peak performance without burnout. Chris explains how to create training systems that promote longevity, adaptability, and consistent improvement, helping athletes perform better for longer.This episode is a practical guide for coaches, trainers, and anyone interested in the science of performance, recovery, and resilience.Key Topics:Coaching philosophy and athlete developmentLowering the orthopaedic cost of trainingLongevity and durability in high-impact sportsVelocity-based training and data-informed performanceBuilding trust and human connection in coachingAdvice for new strength and conditioning professionalsGuestChris Tombs has over 30 years of experience in strength and conditioning across professional rugby, action sports, cricket, and the military. His current work focuses on preparing soldiers for the physical and mental demands of their roles.HostMartin Jones — ophp.co.ukProducerBess ManleyConnect with Chris Tombs:LinkedInInstagramIf you found this episode useful, please rate, share, and review the show. To suggest guests or topics, email info@ophp.co.uk or connect on LinkedIn.

In this episode, Martin & JP talk to Dr Meaghan Beckner about her work in biomarker research. They explore the concept of resilience and the use of biomarkers to measure physiological and psychological readiness. They discuss the potential of wearable technology, the importance of omics, and the validity of using pre-workout supplements. Guest, Cast & CrewDr Meaghan Beckner is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, where she is involved in innovative studies aimed at optimizing the performance and well-being of military personnel. She specializes in the intersection of military health, nutrition, and cognitive resilience. Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Produced & edited by Bess ManleyResourceshttps://www.researchgate.net/profile/Meaghan-Becknerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/meaghan-e-beckner-phd-624b80353/ Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review.  If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at info@ophp.co.uk or connect with us on LinkedIn.    Chapters01:41 Defining Resilience02:26 Understanding Biomarkers05:24 Molecular Biomarkers and Readiness08:09 Cortisol and the Stress Response20:08 Physiological Impact of Special Forces Training37:13 Future Directions in Biomarker Research38:59 Pre-Workout Supplements and Performance41:08 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

In this episode, Martin & JP talk to Nathalie Pattyn about human performance in operational environments. They discuss the importance of rest and recovery in training, the role of robustness and the challenges of leadership in high-performance settings. Nathalie has extensive experience working in Antarctica, and the conversation explores the adaptability required to excel in that environment.Guest, Cast & CrewNathalie Pattyn is an emergency doctor, psychologist and academic with 30 years of experience in the Belgian defence force. She heads up VIPER – a research unit that investigates human performance in selected populations, from astronauts to special forces candidates. Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Produced & edited by Bess ManleyResourcesNathalie’s open-access book ‘Handbook of Mental Performance’ https://tinyurl.com/yxwa7n23 VIPER’s publications http://viper.rma.ac.be/pub/index.html ‘An Astronaut’s Guide to Life’ by Chris Hadfield https://tinyurl.com/57b8yw6t Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review.  If you have feedback, guest suggestions, or topics you'd love us to cover, please email us at info@ophp.co.uk or connect with us on LinkedIn.    Chapters01:09 Founding the Viper Research Unit01:57 Research Focus and Applications02:54 Training for Extreme Roles04:23 The Importance of Rest and Recovery05:37 Selection and Robustness14:44 Challenges in Selection Processes24:22 Antarctic Missions and Remote Medicine31:46 Cognitive and Physiological Research38:50 Emerging Technologies and Practical Advice42:18 Leadership and Duty of Care46:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this captivating episode of OpHP, hosts Martin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin sit down with the eminent physiologist Professor Andy Jones, a leading figure in endurance sports science. Discover the cutting-edge research that propelled the world's first sub-2-hour marathon, a feat where Professor Jones played a pivotal role in Nike's Breaking2 project.Professor Jones, renowned for his expertise in aerobic capacity, lactate thresholds, and exercise economy, shares invaluable insights into the science behind optimising endurance performance. This discussion extends beyond traditional metrics, such as VO2 max, to explore the crucial concepts of critical speed and the exciting new field of physiological resilience.Whether you're an elite athlete, a dedicated runner, or simply curious about pushing human limits, this episode offers practical advice on how to enhance your endurance and build resilience. Learn about specific training practices of elite athletes, understand how to balance training intensity, and get practical tips for improving your own endurance.Key Topics Covered:Endurance Performance: Conceptualizing and optimizing your athletic potential.VO2 Max: Understanding its importance in endurance.Lactate Thresholds & Critical Speed: Advanced metrics for performance.Physiological Resilience: The "fourth dimension" of endurance and its impact on fatigue.Sub-2-Hour Marathon: The groundbreaking science and training behind this historic achievement.Training for Endurance: Practical tips, intensity distribution, and elite athlete practices.Exercise Economy: Improving efficiency for sustained performance.About Professor Andy Jones:Professor Andy Jones is a highly respected academic and researcher at the University of Exeter, specialising in exercise physiology and endurance sports. His distinguished career encompasses extensive research into factors affecting aerobic performance, as well as significant contributions to world-record-breaking athletic achievements.Resources Mentioned:Professor Andy Jones' University of Exeter Profile: https://experts.exeter.ac.uk/1327-andy-jonesAndy Jones on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/andybeetroot?lang=enKeywords:Endurance PerformanceProfessor Andy JonesPhysiological ResilienceCritical SpeedSub-2-Hour MarathonVO2 MaxLactate ThresholdExercise EconomyRunning ScienceMarathon TrainingAthletic PerformanceSports ScienceNike Breaking2Endurance TrainingFatigue ManagementElite AthletesAerobic CapacityDid you find this episode valuable? Please take a moment to rate, share, and review the podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners! If you have questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to cover, email us at info@ophp.co.uk or connect with us on LinkedIn.

This episode is a deep dive into the field of periodisation with world-leading expert Professor Gregory Haff. We explore what periodisation is, why it’s important and how it can be used to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury.Guest, Cast & CrewGregory Haff is a highly respected strength scientist, researcher, strength and conditioning coach, weightlifting coach and author. His extensive research focuses on improving resistance training methodologies for athletes to enhance performance and prevent injuries. Professor Haff has collaborated with numerous National and Olympic teams across various sports, including weightlifting, rowing, and track cycling. More recently, his work has expanded to developing effective **training strategies for defence personnel**, preparing them for demanding physical challenges.Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Produced & edited by Bess ManleyResourcesGreg’s email: g.haff@ecu.edu.au Greg’s recent book on Periodisation https://www.human-kinetics.co.uk/9781492561675/scientific-foundations-and-practical-applications-of-periodization/ Greg on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/g-gregory-haff-69078a10/?originalSubdomain=au Greg on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/doc_haff/?hl=en-gb Reearch paper on Australian SF selection course recovery https://www.sciencedirect.com/org/science/article/pii/S1715531224001315#sec7 Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review.  If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at info@ophp.co.uk or connect with us on LinkedIn.    Chapters00:11 Greg's Journey into Sports Science01:41 Understanding Periodisation03:27 Holistic Approach to Training06:01 Psychological Aspects of Training09:01 Historical Evolution of Periodisation15:44 Fundamental Principles of Periodisation22:34 Applying Periodisation in Tactical Environments25:34 Key Components of Tactical Training26:38 Integrating CrossFit and Tactical Training27:26 Challenges and Benefits of CrossFit28:56 Effective Training Strategies35:45 Physiological Impact of Selection Courses38:03 Research Findings and Recommendations46:35 Concluding Thoughts

World-renowned sleep expert Dr. Michael Gradisar explains the truth behind some of the most commonly misunderstood topics regarding sleep, including the impact of blue light, technology and magnesium.  He also discusses the unique sleep challenges faced by high-stress professionals, and offers practical advice for helping children and adolescents to sleep better. Guest, Cast & CrewDr. Michael Gradisar is a sleep researcher and clinical psychologist specialising in sleep disorders, specifically insomnia & circadian rhythm disorders. After many years working in academia, he is currently Head of Sleep Science at sleepcycle.com, an app that helps users to track and improve their sleep.Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Produced & edited by Bess ManleyResourcesSleep Cycle https://sleepcycle.com/ ‘Helping Your Child With Sleep Problems’ by Michael Gradisar & Rachel Hiller https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helping-Your-Child-Sleep-Problems/dp/1472138724 Michael’s published work on Google Scholar https://scholar.google.com.au/citations?hl=en&user=Q7Yn6bgAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate Review of blue light research https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1087079224000376 Review of Magnesium effectiveness https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8053283/ Nodding Off by Alice Gregory https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nodding-Off-Science-Sleep-Cradle/dp/1472946189 Sleepio https://www.sleepio.com/sleepio/nhs/391#1/1 Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review.  If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at info@ophp.co.uk or connect with us on LinkedIn.     Chapters00:15 Introducing Michael: Sleep Researcher and Clinical Psychologist01:39 Understanding the Importance of Sleep03:10 Debunking Sleep Myths: Blue Light and Sleep Hygiene11:06 The Truth About Magnesium and Sleep15:17 Technology and Sleep: Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Regulation18:31 Sleep Challenges in Children and Adolescents20:40 Navigating the Sleep Roadmap21:25 Sleep Solutions for Infants and Teenagers22:26 Technology's Impact on Sleep25:03 Challenges in High-Stress Professions28:51 Personalized Sleep Strategies37:14 Follow Science, Not Scientists41:08 Final Thoughts and Resources

Afghanistan veteran Luke Sinnot talks candidly about the experience of losing both his legs in an IED explosion and his journey through rehabilitation. He describes the physical and psychological challenges that he faced, and the pivotal role that sport and humour have played in his recovery. Guest, Cast & CrewLuke Sinnott lost both his legs while serving as a Royal Engineers Search Advisor in Afghanistan in 2010. He has since gone on to represent Great Britain in both para sailing and long jump and is currently training to be a commercial pilot. Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Produced & edited by Bess ManleyResourceshttps://www.instagram.com/sinnott.luke/?hl=en-gbhttps://x.com › sinnottluke   Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review.  If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at info@ophp.co.uk or connect with us on LinkedIn.    Chapters00:10 Luke’s Background and Career Journey03:13 Counter IED Operations in Afghanistan05:55 Challenges and Responsibilities of Command14:30 The Incident and Aftermath21:55 Arrival at DMRC Headley Court22:23 Life in the Rehabilitation Facility25:02 Meeting JP and the Role of PTIs26:30 Understanding Resilience30:20 The Importance of Humor and Sport in Rehab35:24 Operation Surf and Its Impact37:25 Transition to Long Jumping40:27 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations