Combat sports athletes have evolved in their approach, realizing that strategic energy conservation plays a key role in success during fights. Mental toughness and proper conditioning have become essential skills in today's competitions.
Carl Lewis, the Olympic sprinter, would maintain a consistent breathing pattern and style until the 50-60 meter mark before winning by 10 yards, while others would try and give a little extra push towards the end. This strategy was later dubbed "the 85% rule."
Should athletes strive for exceptionalism or unexceptionalism? While some athletes perform better with an intense and exceptional mindset, others benefit from a relaxed and unexceptional approach to competition.
Retired boxer talks about his style of punching being influenced by his inner demons and how that affected the length of his career.
The podcast discusses the premise of quickness versus the size of the defenders in basketball and how it can impact the game. Moreover, the approach of Greg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs in running the same playbook systematically is talked about.
The coach discusses the importance of staying composed during fights and downloading information in round one, in order to win in the latter rounds. The fighter's eventual move to five round fights is also mentioned.