480: Phil Nash on The Infinite Game of Athletic Performance

Today’s guest is Phil Nash. Phil is a Manager of Coach Education at EXOS. He is a seasoned strength and conditioning professional who leads EXOS’s efforts to develop and educate coaches worldwide. Phil specializes in bringing practical, science-based training methods—like plyometrics and medicine-ball work—into performance systems, and regularly shares his expertise at major industry conferences On today’s show, we dig into training models ranging from the force–velocity curve to the idea of infinite games, exploring how these frameworks influence the way we view athletic performance. Phil offers his perspective on blending structured training with the freedom of play, highlighting adaptability and growth as central themes in coaching. This episode provides clear, practical insights for coaches and athletes alike on building both physical capacity and mental resilience. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and the Vert Trainer Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer Use code “justfly20” for 20% off of LILA Exogen Wearable resistance gear at www.lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 5:12 – Phil’s Journey into Coaching and Performance Training 12:40 – Exploring the Interplay of Science and Coaching Art 22:18 – Building Strong Athlete-Coach Relationships 32:07 – The Role of Autonomy and Curiosity in Development 43:51 – Balancing Physical Preparation with Mental Readiness 55:46 – Using Constraints to Guide Skill and Movement 1:07:12 – Learning from Mistakes and Coaching Growth 1:18:09 – Phil’s Reflections on Longevity and Evolving as a Coach Quotes from Phil Nash “Coaching isn’t just applying science; it’s interpreting it through the lens of people.” “Relationships are the glue that holds performance together.” “Curiosity is the foundation of growth; for athletes and coaches alike.” “Constraints aren’t restrictions; they’re invitations for creativity.” “Mistakes are part of the process; if you’re not making them, you’re not pushing boundaries.” “Longevity comes from curiosity and humility, not from clinging to old ways.” About Phil Nash Phillip Nash, MS, CSCS, currently serves as Manager of Coach Education at EXOS, the global, science-driven performance company founded in 1999 and headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. With a background in strength and conditioning (as indicated by his CSCS credential), Phil leads initiatives that shape and elevate the training and development of performance coaches across EXOS’s network of facilities and educational platforms. Phil's role centers on designing and delivering innovative coach education programs that empower trainers, therapists, and performance professionals to implement EXOS’s holistic training system—built on Mindset, Nutrition, Movement, and Recovery- in diverse settings ranging from elite athletics to corporate wellness. He is frequently involved in delivering performance education sessions at major industry events.