Episode 7 - Applying Skill Acquisition & Motor Learning in Strength and Conditioning w/ Dr. Kevin Becker

What’s going on everyone and welcome back to the Hot Takes Performance Podcast.  I’m your host Rob Nelson, and we have Dr. Kevin Becker on the show today.  Dr. Becker is an associate professor at the University of Tennessee in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.  Dr. Becker graduated from the University of Tennessee, obtaining his PhD in Kinesiology and Sport Studies – Sports Psychology and Motor Behavior.  In addition to his formal education background, Dr. Becker was a very accomplished Track and Field athlete.  He competed twice as a throwing athlete in the Olympic trials and continues to throw and compete to this day.  In the episode, we deeply dive into motor learning theory and behavior.  We discuss concepts such as attractor stability in skill acquisition, internal vs external vs holistic focus of attention, using an ecological model in closed skill sports such as track and field, the challenge point framework, as well as many others.  We also talk about sports psychology and how student-athletes can work on their mental performance training even if they have limited resources available to them.  Dr. Becker is extremely knowledgeable and takes a deep dive into all the topics we discussed and I learned a ton from this episode.  All of his contact information and social media accounts will be listed in the show notes.  If you like the episode feel free to give us a review on the platform of your choice.  You can also reach out at Hot Takes Performance Podcast on Instagram.  Now let’s get to today’s show.

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