Performance Rewired
Performance Rewired is a podcast for movement experts ready to challenge everything they’ve been taught about learning movement and tap into a brain-based approach to performance. For dancers, gymnasts, artistic athletes, instructors, and coaches who want to understand what’s really behind elite performance. Hosted by Nikki Bybee and Yuka Sugiura, master neuro trainers and performance coaches.
Episode 17: What We Know About Your Brain Through Your Movement
In this episode of Performance Rewired, we explore what posture and movement can reveal about brain function, and why the same posture cue may not lead to lasting change. We talk about how walking patterns, including uneven arm swing or trunk rotation, can offer clues about movement and balance. We share how small imbalances can affect how efficiently we move over time, how the brain helps regulate movement and posture, and why neural assessment can help distinguish neurological influences from structural limitations. We also discuss the spinocerebellum’s role in posture and why a single approach won’t fit ever...
Episode 16: Input vs. Output - Selecting Better Input Improves Performance
We explore how the nervous system processes sensory inputs and turns it into movement, and how targeted changes to those inputs can affect performance. Follow along as we discuss assessments and training approaches involving vision, vestibular function, proprioception, attention, and context.
Key topics
How sensory input influences movement and performanceWhy vision, vestibular function, and proprioception are common assessment areasHow attention, thoughts, and environmental cues can affect performanceHow assessments help practitioners choose targeted drillsWhy the right exercise, dosage, and progression matterTimestamps
00:39 Welcome and introducing input and output
03:27 How the...
Episode 15: Why We Don't Use BOSU Balls in Training
In this episode we break down why BOSU balls and foam pads are not the best tools for improving balance, ankle proprioception, or athletic stability. There's a difference between training on unstable surfaces and training for the actual demands of performance, and we share examples from dancers, gymnasts, and other movers. Yuka walks through a study on ankle proprioception and unstable surfaces, while Nikki adds practical coaching context from dance training and foot tripod mechanics. Together, we clarify that balance work should match the environment and task the athlete actually needs to perform.
Key Topics<...
Episode 14: Building Resilience to Enhance Performance
We explore what resilience means in elite performance and how small movement patterns can reveal opportunities to build capacity. We discuss why resilience involves both the body and the mind, from adapting to physical challenges to staying open to feedback and unexpected changes.
Key topics
In this episode, we discuss how resilience can help athletes and artists perform at higher level, even when conditions or physical patterns aren’t ideal.Why examining subtle movement patterns can help identify opportunities for growth, rather than labeling movement as simply good or bad.How elite performers can st...Episode 13: Seeing Clearly - Why 20/20 Vision Is Not the Whole Story for Dancers and Gymnasts
In Episode 13 we dig into the difference between static vision and the kind of visual control athletes actually need in motion. We focus on how vision, vestibular input, and body position affect spotting, turning, landing, and overall performance in dance and gymnastics. In this episode, we also share a practical drill progression for training visual acuity under movement, plus a few real-world coaching observations from the studio and the gym.
Key topics
20/20 vision only measures static acuityWhy motion changes what your eyes can doSigns vision may be limiting performancePlyometrics as a cross-training lesson in...Epsiode 12: Built to Rotate: Reflexes Behind Turns, Spins, Flips, and Rotational Performance
In this episode, we are breaking down some reflex systems that quietly shape balance, spotting, and rotational control in dance and gymnastics. The focus is on how the vestibular, visual, and proprioceptive systems work together, and why performance issues like chin drop, bobblehead movement, and unstable turns may be tied to reflexive responses rather than just technique. This glimpse into the neural is especially useful for coaches and athletes who want a more complete view of rotation, head control, and why some movement problems do not respond to the usual biomechanical cues. It also includes practical signs to look...
Episode 11: The Unintended Consequences of Corrections that Gymnastics Coaches and Dance Instructors Say
In this episode, we unpack common coaching cues that sound helpful in dance and gymnastics but can create confusion, tension, and even body-related insecurity. We discuss how the nervous system prioritizes safety over performance, and how that changes the way corrections could be given. When we replace vague or body-part-heavy cues with clearer, more effective language that supports learning without increasing threat, we get better results.
Key topics
This episode was inspired by a post by Shane Wuerthner @athletistry. We explore corrections that dancers and gymnasts hear constantly but may not understand, and why...Episode 10: The Neuroscience of Corrections and Movement Safety
Discover how neural inputs, safety mechanisms, and sensory feedback influence corrections in dance and gymnastics, and learn practical strategies to optimize performance by rewiring the brain and body.
Key Topics
The role of corrections in dance and gymnastics and how they affect performanceWhy some athletes need fewer corrections due to neural safety and neural inputHow safety mechanisms, like eye convergence and body awareness, influence movement correctionThe importance of neural wiring and sensory input for efficient, fluid movementExternal focus techniques, imagery, and environment adjustments to enhance learningThe significance of body-wide interconnectedness, including foot and hand...Episode 9 - Understanding the Crucial Role of Feet in Movement, Safety, and Performance
In this episode, we explore the often overlooked importance of foot function in dance and gymnastics, emphasizing sensory feedback, biomechanics, and training techniques to improve connection to the ground. Whether you're a performer or coach, gain insights on how foot awareness can transform movement quality and safety.
Key Topics
The feet as primary sensory tools critical for safety and movement controlThe feedback loop between feet and brain: How sensory input influences gait, posture, and powerThe anatomy of the foot: 26 bones, joints, muscles, and its complexityThe concept of the tripod foot: Its shape, significance, and...Episode 8 - How We Approach Neuro Training Program Design for Dancers and Gymnasts
In this episode, we talk about the perception of neuro training as brain ‘tricks’ and discuss how it's a process and approach that creates changes in the brain to improve physical performance for the long-run. We share recent experiences from workshops and clinics and the process behind designing and refining programs for groups and individuals.
Key topics
Why neuro training should be part of the beginning of every movement sessionTranslating workshop “tricks” into long-term training How an Assess - Reassess process helps athletes track what actually worksIndividualized protocols and why some athletes respond differentlyUsing neuro tra...Episode 7 - Why Elite Dancers and Gymnasts Need Elite Levels of Proprioception
In this episode of Performance Rewired, we dive into the essential role of proprioception in athletic and artistic performance, exploring how elite performers might still have gaps in their sensory awareness and how to optimize this critical system. We share insights from our coaching experiences as well as practical exercises to improve proprioceptive capacity.
Key Topics:
The importance of having high-levels of proprioceptive awareness for elite athletes, dancers, and gymnastsHow injuries and repetitive patterns can limit proprioceptive acuityExercises to enhance proprioceptive awareness, including two-point discrimination and graphesthesiaThe impacts of sensory reweighting, like an overreliance...Episode 6: How to Incorporate Neurotraining In High Performance Athletes, Dancers, and Gymnasts— Boost Your Movement, Resilience, and Longevity
Discover how neuro performance training can enhance athletic and dance performance, prolong careers, and optimize movement efficiency. This episode explores the integration of neuro training into high-performance routines, emphasizing the importance of training the brain and nervous system alongside physical strength.
In this episode
The hierarchy of movement: Why the brain's input (visual, vestibular, sensory systems) governs muscle functionHow neuro training acts as the software for the body's hardware, optimizing movement and performanceThe significance of neuro training for high-level athletes, dancers, and performers aiming for that extra 1% boostWays to incorporate neuro drills into daily...Episode 5: The Vestibular System's Hidden Role in High-Performance Athletes
Discover why the vestibular system, a crucial set of organs in the inner ear, can significantly impact athletic performance, balance, and movement. Learn how fine-tuning this system can lead to rapid improvements in stability, flexibility, and overall coordination, as well as reduce spinal tension.
In this episode:
The role of the vestibular system in balancing and spatial orientationHow vestibular dysfunction affects elite athletes and dancersSimple tests and drills to assess and enhance vestibular functionThe misconception of BOSU balls as proprioceptive toolsRelationship between vestibular health, postural tension, and movement qualityCase studies demonstrating quick progress with...Episode 4: Convergence - A Crucial Visual Skill for Dance and Gymnastics
In this episode, we explore how visual skills, particularly convergence, impact movement, performance, and injury prevention in dance and athletics. You’ll find practical insights into diagnosing convergence issues and techniques to improve visual capacity for better performance.
Main Topics:
The role of convergence in movement and performance How to self-assess convergence skills Insight into optimizing visual input for better balance, movement, and injury preventionThe impact of visual system efficiency on sports like gymnastics and dancePractical exercises to enhance convergence and visual awarenessIn this episode:
How convergence influences depth judgment...Episode 3: Enhancing Movement Through Vision - The Power of Eye Training in Dance and Gymnastics Performance
Discover how your eyes influence movement, performance, and overall physical health. This episode explores the deep connection between vision and motor skills, providing practical insights into improving visual skills for athletes and movers alike.
Key topics
The critical role of vision in motor development and movement efficiencyHow early eye tracking (smooth pursuit) influences locomotionThe connection between eye health, movement, and neck painAssessment tools for visual system deficiencies impacting performancePractical drills to enhance visual skills such as smooth pursuit, saccades, and accommodationThe impact of visual training on athletic reflexes, balance, and confidenceReweighting neural pathways through...Episode 1: Understanding the Frontal Lobe
In this episode, we explore how the frontal lobe influences movement, decision-making, and inhibition, with insights from dancers, gymnasts, and case studies. We discuss practical drills and exercises to activate the frontal lobe, improve movement initiation, and reduce unnecessary tension, enhancing athletic performance and everyday function.
Key topics:
The anatomy of the frontal lobe: primary motor cortex, motor association cortex, prefrontal cortex, Broca's area, and the frontal eye fieldHow the frontal lobe controls movement initiation, planning, and inhibitionThe relationship between the frontal lobe and movement disorders like Parkinson’s and ADHDPractical exercises: Stroop activity, sa...Episode 2: Unlocking Movement Mastery - The Power of the Cerebellum
Discover how understanding and training the cerebellum can dramatically enhance coordination, balance, and agility—especially for dancers, gymnasts, athletes and movement enthusiasts. Join us as we explore the brain's tiny yet mighty structure that controls precision, muscle tone, and error correction in movement. In this episode:
The cerebellum's core functions: accuracy, balance, and coordinationHow cerebellar drills improve trunk control, eye movement, and limb precisionThe significance of right-left limb balance and strategies to assess imbalancesSimple assessment tools: RAPS, heel-to-shin, and eye trackingPractical drills for cerebellar training to boost athletic performance The impact of cerebellum health on muscle tone, and pos...Trailer
Welcome to the trailer for Performance Rewired! In this episode we talk about our backgrounds, why we wanted to start a podcast, and how we hope to educate gymnasts, dancers, coaches and instructors on what it actually means to apply neuroscience to these pursuits, how you and your students can benefit, and share practical ways to do it.
Things we covered:
•Why we started a podcast
•Our background and education, how we came to neuroscience and why it’s now central to how we work
•How conventional training falls short
•The brain’s role in move...
