Sport Science Decoded

The Hidden 8.5x Reinjury Risk Destroying AFL Careers

What happens when talent evaluation prioritizes performance over injury history? The data exposes a critical gap between draft success and career survival.
In this episode we look at new research tracking 1,071 AFL Draft Combine participants which reveals a shocking paradox: players with ACL reconstruction history get drafted at the same rate as uninjured athletes, but face an 8.5 times higher risk of reinjury during their professional careers.
 
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every week.
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Veale, J. P., Shawdon, A., D'Alessandro, P., Ebert, J. R., & Edwards, P. K. (2025). Impact of Pre-Elite Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction on Draft Outcomes and Reinjury Risk in Elite Australian Football Players: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Sports, 13(9), 308. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13090308 

Explosive Strength Training: When Maximum Strength Actually Matters in Athletic Performance

Elite athletes generate explosive power differently than strong recreational lifters. Swedish researchers tested 30 international track and field throwers and discovered the exact force development timeline that separates elite performance from gym strength. This study reveals when rate of force development peaks, when maximum strength training becomes effective, and why explosive power training requires precise timing. Essential insights for strength and conditioning coaches and athletes in throwing sports, martial arts, and Olympic weightlifting. Learn the neurophysiological timeline behind elite athletic performance and how to periodize your explosive strength training for maximum power output.
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Augustsson, J., Gunhamn, T., & Andersson, H. (2025). Relationship Between Early and Maximal Isometric Upper-Body Push and Pull Force Production Among Elite Female and Male Swedish Track and Field Throwers. Sports, 13(7), 226. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13070226 

The Perfect Kinetic Chain activation of Elite Karate Punches

New research reveals the hidden muscle activation sequence behind elite karate punching technique. Scientists used electromyography (EMG) to map the complete kinetic chain of a top-ranked Japanese karate master's reverse punch (Gyaku Tsuki). This groundbreaking study represents the first objective biomechanical analysis of karate technique using advanced EMG technology. The findings challenge everything we thought we knew about optimal punching mechanics.
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Csákvári, L., Kopper, B., & Horváth, T. (2025). A Novel, Sport-Specific EMG-Based Method to Evaluate Movement Efficiency in Karate Punching. Sports, 13(7), 218. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13070218

Weights vs Stretching: Which Actually Improves Your Mood?

Resistance training vs stretching for mental health: which exercise actually improves mood and reduces anxiety? New research reveals surprising differences between weightlifting and mobility work for immediate psychological benefits. Scientists tested the same people doing both strength training and stretching sessions - the results challenge everything we think we know about exercise and stress relief.
This episode examines groundbreaking research comparing acute mental health effects of different workout intensities. We analyze the methodology, unexpected findings, and practical applications for athletes seeking evidence-based approaches to mood regulation through exercise. Discover why workout type, intensity, and context matter more than duration for immediate anxiety and depression relief.
Key topics: exercise psychology, strength training benefits, workout-induced mood changes, anxiety relief techniques, neurobiological exercise responses, fitness for mental health, evidence-based training protocols, acute psychological interventions.
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Amore, M., Alfarano, A., Sorgente, V., Panconi, G., Guarducci, S., Bravi, R., & Minciacchi, D. (2025). Single-Bout Strength: Acute Mental Health Responses to Resistance Training in Active Adults. Sports, 13(7), 221. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13070221 

The Velocity Method That's Been Failing Half the Population

Velocity-based training has revolutionized strength and conditioning, but new research reveals a critical flaw in 1RM prediction accuracy that's been putting athletes at risk for years.
In this episode of Sport Science Decoded, we break down groundbreaking research on gender differences in minimal velocity threshold (MVT) for back squat 1RM prediction. Discover why current velocity-based training methods have been systematically failing female athletes and how proper load-velocity relationship modeling can improve training safety and accuracy for both male and female populations.
Perfect for: Exercise science researchers, strength and conditioning professionals, performance coaches, sports scientists, and evidence-based practitioners seeking the latest velocity-based training research
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Dello Stritto, E., Romagnoli, R., Nocchi, M., & Piacentini, M. F. (2025). How Does Load Selection and Sex Influence 1RM Prediction Using the Minimal Velocity Threshold During Free-Weight Back Squat? Sports, 13(7), 224. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13070224

Unrecognized and Unreported Concussions in Community Rugby Players | Brain Injury Prevalence | Sports Safety

What happens when rugby players experience concussion symptoms but never report them? This episode examines the largest study ever conducted on community rugby concussion patterns, revealing shocking rates of hidden brain injuries among grassroots players. We explore why players with previous concussions become the most dangerous risk group, the critical gap between elite and community-level medical support, and the cultural factors driving dangerous silence about neurological symptoms. Essential listening for coaches, players, and parents who want to understand the true scope of rugby's invisible epidemic and the evidence-based interventions that could prevent long-term brain damage at the community level.
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Wittmer, R., Buckley, T. A., Swanik, C. B., Costantini, K. M., Ryan, L., Daly, E., King, R. E., Daniels, A. J., & Hunzinger, K. J. (2025). Unrecognized and Unreported Concussions Among Community Rugby Players. Sports, 13(8), 278. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13080278 

Real-Time DOMS Prediction Through Heart Rate Variability Monitoring in Elite Athletes

New research studying elite handball players discovered a breakthrough method for predicting delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) using heart rate variability monitoring during exercise. This groundbreaking study reveals how specific heart rhythm patterns around a critical 120 BPM threshold can forecast muscle damage before pain develops. Learn how this HRV research could revolutionize injury prevention and training optimization for athletes and coaches.
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Langmár, G., Sümegi, T., Fülöp, B., Pozsgai, L., Mocsai, T., Tóth, M., Rácz, L., Kopper, B., Dér, A., Búzás, A., & Sonkodi, B. (2025). Heart Rate Variability Alterations During Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness-Inducing Exercise—With Piezo2 Interpretation. Sports, 13(8), 262. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13080262 

How Anthropometric and Strength Testing Variables predict Boxing Punch power

Why do same-weight boxers hit with vastly different punch power? New boxing research reveals it's not muscle bulk or training experience - it's the physical characteristics most coaches completely ignore when developing fighters.
We break down groundbreaking combat sports science from Portuguese researchers who analyzed 69 amateur boxers using scientific punch measurement technology.
We explore how anthropometric characteristics interact with boxing strength performance to create devastating strikes, and translate these boxing science findings into actionable training strategies for combat sports coaches and martial arts athletes.
Perfect for sport science researchers, boxing coaches, combat sports training, and evidence-based coaches seeking cutting-edge boxing performance insights.
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Youtube Music, and all major platforms
References
Pinto, M., Crisóstomo, J., Kirk, C., Abián-Vicén, J., & Monteiro, L. (2025). Influence of Anthropometric Characteristics and Muscle Performance on Punch Impact. Sports, 13(8), 281. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13080281 
 

Mental Fatigue and Penalty Kicks: The Hidden Performance Killer

Why do players miss crucial penalty kicks late in matches? New research reveals it's not just nerves or pressure - it's the invisible impact of mental fatigue systematically destroying shooting accuracy by up to 36%.
We break down groundbreaking research from Chinese sport scientists who tested college soccer players before and after inducing mental exhaustion. The results are shocking: while physical mechanics remain intact, precision deteriorates dramatically, with non-dominant foot performance suffering even more.
We explore how the accumulative cognitive load of a full game creates measurable performance deficits, and translate these findings into actionable strategies for coaches and players preparing for high-pressure moments.
Perfect for sport science researchers and evidence-based coaches seeking cutting-edge performance insights.
Show Notes
Thanks for listening to Sport Science Decoded. Where we take you from research to application in 5 minutes. Cutting-edge sport science research communicated for academics, coaches, and evidence-based practitioners who want to stay current without spending hours reading papers. New episodes every Wednesday, and Friday
Contact & Submissions
Email: hamish@warriorcodex.com.au
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportScienceDecoded
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sportsciencedecoded
X: https://x.com/SportSciDecoded
Podcast Platforms: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and all major platforms
References
Liu, Q., Huang, R., Liu, Z., Sun, C., Qi, L., & Cicchella, A. (2025). The impact of mental fatigue on the accuracy of penalty kicks in college soccer players. Sports, 13(8), Article 259. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13080259