Balancing Performance and Mental Toughness

In this episode of the Athletes Edge Coaches Edition podcast, Tony Everett interviews Sudip Bhagwai, a physical performance coach for the Seattle Sounders. Sudip shares his journey from studying physiology to working in professional sports, including his unique experiences at West Point. The conversation delves into the importance of physical training, recovery, mental toughness, and the balance between athlete development and winning in professional sports. Sudip emphasizes the significance of sleep, strength training, and the mental aspects of coaching, highlighting the need for stamina of motivation in pursuing a career in sports performance.

takeaways

• Sudip Bhagwai works as a physical performance coach for the Seattle Sounders.
• His journey includes experiences at the University of Florida and West Point.
• West Point presents unique challenges for athlete training due to its military environment.
• Sleep is crucial for athlete recovery and performance.
• Mental toughness varies across generations and requires different approaches.
• Positive reinforcement from coaches can boost athlete confidence.
• Setting process-based goals is more effective than outcome-based goals.
• Stamina of motivation is essential for success in sports careers.
• Athletes should maintain strength training during the in-season period.
• The human body is capable of more than we often realize.

Sound Bites

• "You have to sleep."
• "Catch them doing a good job."
• "Set process-based goals."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Sudeep Bhagwai and His Role

07:10
Sudeep's Journey to Professional Soccer Coaching

13:18
The Importance of Sleep and Strength Training for Athletes

19:21
Mental Toughness and the Role of Sports Psychology

25:50
Balancing Development and Winning in Professional Sports

31:28
Advice for Aspiring Athletic Trainers

Thank you for tuning in. We are here to provide you and your athlete with content to grow and develop. Join us next week for another episode of the Athletes Edge, coaches edition podcast.

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