The Real Science of Sport Podcast

The Real Science of Sport Podcast

Author: Professor Ross Tucker and Mike Finch Language: English Episodes: 100
Ever wondered what actually happens inside an athlete's body during a marathon, or whether the latest training trend is backed by evidence? The Real Science of Sport Podcast cuts through the noise with a unique blend of academic rigor and frontline reporting. Professor Ross Tucker, a world-renowned sports scientist, and veteran journalist Mike Finch form an engaging partnership, dissecting everything from athletics and rugby to soccer and cycling. Each episode feels like a deep, insightful conversation where complex research is translated into understandable takeaways, myths are debunked, and heated controversies are examined from all angles. You’ll hear them analyze the latest studies, extract practical lessons from professional athletes and coaches, and speak directly with leading global experts in exclusive interviews. This isn't just sports talk; it's a thoughtful exploration of the mechanisms, psychology, and culture behind performance and competition. For anyone with a curious mind and a passion for sport, this podcast offers a consistently fascinating look at the real stories behind the headlines and the physiology beneath the jersey.
Episodes
Zone 2: The Debate Continues / World Records Old and New [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:35:38
Join Discourse Join Kona champions, beer mile WR holders, sports scientists, and sports enthusiasts who will add exponentially to the value of the show! Make a pledge at Patreon, and become a Discourse member to become p…
Why Everything You Know About Zone 2 Training is Probably Wrong [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:14:51
Everyone is talking about Zone 2 training, but few understand the real science behind it. But thanks to a new scientific review, Much Ado About Zone 2: A Narrative Review Assessing The Efficacy of Zone 2 Training for Imp…
Cutting Weight to Win: PFP's Performance Strategy. Or Slippery Slope? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:15:38
Join DiscourseWeigh in on these and other stories by becoming a Science of Sport Discourse member with a small monthly pledgeShow notesThis week on the Spotlight, we dive into the latest Discourse Digest, unpacking talki…
Inside The World of Women's Professional Cycling [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:19:51
Multiple African Champion, Commonwealth Games medallist, Olympian, multiple Giro Rosa podium finisher and one of the most experienced riders in the women's World Tour, Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio has seen it all. In a pro car…
What Your Strava Fitness Score Really Means [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:24:21
TSS, Relative Effort, Fitness Score... Confused by all the numbers and what they mean? Mike and Prof. Tucker delve into the details of what defines fitness, how it is measured, the factors that influence fitness and how…
Trust Issues: Doping, the Media, and the Athlete’s Dilemma [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:15:42
Join Discourse: you know what to do - small monthly pledge, and the community is yours!This week's Spotlight kicks off on the roads of France with a fast-paced Discourse Digest. Remco Evenepoel’s withdrawal sparks a disc…
Hormones, Hype & High Performance: The Menstrual Cycle in Sport [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:36:15
In this episode, we dive into the intersection of the menstrual cycle and athletic performance—a topic often surrounded by strong opinions but surprisingly limited evidence. Joined by Dr Kelly McNulty, researcher and pra…