Heavy Or Not - The O.G. Swim Guide

10 Episodes
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By: ISCA

A thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the intersection of sports, technology, and human potential. = Heavy Or Not delves deeper into social issues, such as access to sports, cost of wellness, the impact of technology, and the importance of community engagement. Heavy Or Not incorporates the evolving role of A.I. in sports training, exploring both the benefits and potential drawbacks of this technology. The show integrates valuable educational content on swimming techniques, water safety, and environmental issues, making it more than just a sports drama. From the gritty pools of Pittsburgh to the ambitious rebuild of the Salmon Arm Aquatic...

Mental Health Support - Strategies for Coaches and Young Athletes #26
#26
Last Tuesday at 3:16 AM

Supporting Student Athletes: Mental Health Challenges and Solutions from Experts

Delve into the mental health challenges faced by student-athletes, drawing insights from experts and real-life experiences.

Discover practical strategies to support young athletes in navigating their complex environments.

Explore the unique pressures student-athletes face, from academic stress to social media influences.

Learn about the ACT framework for recognizing and addressing mental health concerns.

Understand the impact of smartphones and social media on young athletes' mental well-being.

Discover the seven C's model for building resilience and promoting positive...


Mental Health Mental Health for Student Athletes - Meeting: Red Flags, Roles, Responsesfor Student Athletes - Meeting: Red Flags, Roles, Responses
#25
04/24/2025

Jump cut #25

The topic of mental health among student-athletes comes into focus with insights and notes from a meeting hosted by UPMC Sports Medicine and the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation.

This is part one of two and it covered the first three presentations. Also see jump cut #26.

Discover practical strategies and expert advice to support the well-being of young athletes.

Understanding the importance of a student-athlete's "why" and its impact on motivation and connection.

Recognizing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, and the importance of seeking help.<...


New Olympic Swim Events for LA28 + Pool Energy & a recap of 2 dozen jump cuts
#24
04/22/2025

In "Heavy or Not #24," we explore the evolving landscape of swimming and sports leadership. From Olympic changes to community challenges.

- Discussion on the inclusion of 50-meter stroke events in the Olympic program and its implications.

- Insights from Dr. G on the importance of developing an aerobic base for young swimmers.

- Barry Healey's thoughts on sustainable pool management and community impact.

- A recap of the first 24 episodes of "Heavy or Not" and the journey so far.

- Upcoming focus on mental health for student-athletes and its...


Reflections from Three Diverse Wave Makers
#23
04/18/2025

A heartfelt farewell of a dedicated water safety advocate, Bob Pratt. Plus, we’ll explore insights from the world of competitive swimming.  

This is NOT okay!

Join us as we uncover the challenges and triumphs faced by those committed to making a difference.

 

Bob Pratt's emotional farewell and reflections on his water safety advocacy journey.

The impact of organizational politics on rescue operations and public safety.

The challenges of misinformation in the water safety community.

Katinka Hosszu's journey and experiences came into focus on another podcast that should not be m...


Travel nightmare and its violence prevention plus interview Qs for would-be HS swim coaches
#22
04/14/2025

Big travel headaches confront Barry in Canada, again.   Ponder insights of organizing and coaching at an international swim meet with logistical hurdles to the broader impact of sports on youth, this discussion covers it all.

The struggle of finding accommodations and dealing with high costs for swim meets.
The importance of exposing young athletes to high-level competitions.
Navigating logistical challenges like parking and transportation at large events.
The role of sports in youth development and community engagement.
Strategies for advocating for better sports facilities and resources.

We’re back with "Heavy or Not...


Strategies for Enhancing Olympic Swimming Performance: Insights from Top Coaches and Experts
#21
04/10/2025

In this coaches clinic panel discussion, top coaches and experts uncover some issues from Paris Olympics.

Of course the Team USA had its challenges. Future opportunities facing the world of competitive swimming are uncovered. Discover their thoughts on improving performance and fostering a winning culture.

The importance of relationships in achieving top athletic performance.

Challenges faced by coaches in feeling valued and respected.

The role of resources and support in international competition.

Strategies for long-term planning and athlete development.

The impact of sports science on future swimming...


Mindful Swimming + Expert Panel on Grassroots to LA28 #20 of Heavy Or Not
#20
04/07/2025

In this episode of the "Heavy or Not" podcast, we dive into Mindful Swimming with Brian Holliday. Plus, we pick up again on part two of an earth shattering expert panel that gathered after the Paris Olympics to talk about USA Swimming. 

As is always the case, both the mental and physical aspects of the sport come into focus. Join us as we explore insightful discussions from top coaches and experts.

Discover the concept of mindful swimming with Brian Holliday and how it can enhance your swimming experience. Learn about the importance of goal setting for y...


Grass Roots Swimming to the 2028 Games, from Eastern States Clinic, #19 jump cut
#19
04/04/2025

In this insightful discussion, top swim coaches and sports scientists delve into the evolving landscape of coaching and athlete development. They explore the challenges and opportunities in preparing athletes for peak performance on the world stage.

Their stage was the Eastern States Clinic after the 2024 Olympic Games. 

The importance of explaining coaching philosophies and the science behind them to engage today's intelligent and skeptical athletes. Strategies for fostering athlete autonomy and responsibility, and the role of mental health resources in athlete development. The significance of endurance training and aerobic development in young athletes for long-term success. T...


Aquatic Moonshot, Grant Letter Of Intent, jump cut #18
#18
04/01/2025

The Coaching Wizard: Guiding and Motivating Generations of Aquatic and Civic Learners Through AI-Powered Mentorship That Transforms Water-Based Wisdom Into Waves of Lifelong Leadership, Personalized Learning, and Community Impact.

The Coaching Wizard is a bold new initiative to prototype an AI-powered mentorship and learning platform that transforms how aquatic instructors, youth leaders, and civic educators grow, teach, and lead. Designed to work within and across schools, community pools, recreation centers, and underutilized civic spaces, this idea reimagines the role of coaching as a personalized, lifelong, and community-embedded learning journey.

At its core, the Coaching Wizard...


Technology Shapes Childhood: Insights from Coach Mark and Sophie Winkleman
#17
03/24/2025

Jump Cut #17 dives into the intriguing intersection of technology and childhood development. The digital age is reshaping the way kids grow and learn, and Ed Tech is not a healthy trend, as per a wonderful speech by Sophie Winkleman of the UK.

Play water polo and put down the mobile device!

Gain insights from Coach Mark on empowering adults to guide the younger generation.

Understand the impact of constant device presence on social skill development.

Learn about Sophie Winkleman's observations on screens affecting classroom and social interactions.

Consider the...