The Story (and Science) of Endurance

The Story (and Science) of Endurance

Author: Professor Ross Tucker and Mike Finch November 11, 2025 Duration: 1:42:36

Endurance has been one of the most hotly debated topics in sports science for over three decades. From early research in the 1930s to the ground-breaking 1996 address by Prof. Tim Noakes to the American College of Sports Medicine, understanding the principles of what keeps the body going during prolonged exercise is more complex than you think. In this episode, Mike and Ross take a look back at the often controversial history, Ross's own research journey and experience with Noakes and find out if it really is possible to push beyond our own endurance limits.


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SHOW NOTES

Tim Noakes' original JB Wolffe Lecture, that kicked it all off in 1996


The response by Bassett & Howley


Tim’s response to that rebuttal


By 2000, Noakes’ thinking had evolved, and he presented models for fatigue, published here


A paper by St Clair Gibson and Noakes on fatigue as a way to avoid “catastrophe"


Ross’ first study, in the heat, which was originally rejected because it contradicted prevailing wisdom


The final chapter on Anticipatory Regulation in Ross’ PhD Thesis, published as a paper in BJSM


The really cool Amman study of fentanyl and performance


Another Amman study, this time looking at how very high and low oxygen levels changed pacing strategy and muscle fatigue







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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.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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