Ep. 25 | Simplify Training to Build Strong Athletes and Children | with Luka Svilar (Part 1)

Performance coach Luka Svilar discusses how to develop young basketball players in a sustainable way. Luka explains why mastering bodyweight movements and simple athletic skills is more important than chasing weight‑room numbers. He stresses teaching athletes why they’re doing an exercise and encouraging self‑motivation. The first part covers routines, nutrition, sleep and prehab habits that separate professionals from youth players.

Key Takeaways

• Master bodyweight strength before adding heavy weights.
• Prioritise simple movement skills (sprints, jumps, wrestling) over chasing numbers.
• Encourage curiosity and self‑motivation; ask for help and understand the purpose of drills.
• Build routines around sleep, nutrition, stretching and prehab to support growth.
• Use simple load monitoring (time on feet, session RPE) rather than high‑tech gadgets.

Chapter:

00:00 - Intro & building relationship

06:00 - Getting buy‑in from youth athletes

24:30 - Motivation & discipline

32:40 - Veterans vs. youngsters

38:40 - Checklists & habits

46:00 - Consistency & personal stories