Episodes
Welcome to another episode! Josh Kennedy and James Breese dive into the often-overlooked importance of warm-ups and cool-downs in cricket, especially when it comes to injury prevention. They explore key strategies and actionable tips backed by research to help cricketers stay fit and perform at their best.You'll Learn:How a strategic 15-20 minute warm-up can reduce injuries by 36.6% and why dynamic, targeted movements are crucial for cricketers.How each joint's mobility and stability impacts ...
Published 11/19/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese discuss proven off-season weight loss strategies for cricketers. James shares his personal journey of shedding weight while maintaining performance, along with actionable tips that cricketers of all levels can implement.You’ll Learn:Why "you can’t out-train a bad diet" and how understanding your maintenance calories sets the foundation for sustainable weight loss. Discover how small changes in your calorie deficit can yield big results over time....
Published 11/14/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese dive deep into the world of explosive strength and power for cricket. They discuss why explosiveness is critical for cricketers at every level and explore practical exercises and strategies to build dynamic power effectively.You’ll Learn:How explosiveness impacts batting, bowling, and fielding, and why dynamic movement is essential in modern cricket. The hosts highlight how foundational strength builds the base for explosive power.The mistakes cr...
Published 11/12/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese dive into the essentials of strength training for cricketers. They break down the misconceptions, strategies, and vital movements necessary for optimal athletic performance on the field.You’ll Learn: Why it’s crucial to master proper movement patterns before adding weight, to avoid injuries and maximize strength gains.The distinctions between training to "look good" versus training to perform, and why cricketers should prioritize functional ...
Published 11/05/24
In this episode of the Cricket Matters podcast, Josh and James delve into the concept of the "flow state" and how cricketers can harness it to elevate their performance. Drawing from both sports and psychology, the discussion focuses on the mental and physical aspects of getting "in the zone."You'll Learn:About the flow state as described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and how cricketers experience it during peak performances.The eight attributes that define being in the flow, such a...
Published 10/22/24
In this episode of the Cricket Matters Podcast, Josh Kennedy and James Breese discuss the importance of running workouts for cricketers to improve endurance. They break down the different running strategies for players at various positions and how these workouts contribute to better overall performance on the field.You’ll Learn:Why building endurance is critical for cricketers, from running between wickets to sustaining energy for bowling and fielding over long matches.How cricketers can use ...
Published 10/17/24
Host Josh Kennedy and James Breese dive into the importance of maintaining a quiet mind while batting. They explore the mental challenges cricketers face on the field and share techniques to help batters stay calm and focused. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to enhance your mental game.You'll Learn:How to cope with the pressure from coaches, teammates, and yourself, and why it's essential to focus on the present moment to ...
Published 10/15/24
In this episode, host Josh Kennedy and James Breese explore the role of meditation in enhancing a cricketer’s performance. They discuss how mindfulness and meditation techniques can improve focus, calmness, and mental clarity both on and off the field.You'll Learn:How meditation can help cricketers become more present, focused, and calm during crucial game moments, improving overall performance.How mindfulness can be applied not only in cricket but also in daily life, aiding in stress managem...
Published 10/10/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese discuss the innovative Cricket Matters coaching method. This holistic system helps cricketers unlock their full potential by addressing not just technical skills, but physical conditioning and mental resilience. They dive into how this approach can transform players at all levels, from amateurs to aspiring professionals.You’ll Learn:How this method incorporates fitness, mental toughness, and technique to help cricketers maximize their performance...
Published 10/08/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese discuss the importance of structured off-season training for cricketers. They break down the three essential phases of off-season conditioning: recovery, strength, and aerobic development, offering insights into why each phase is crucial for long-term athletic performance.You'll Learn:How to divide off-season training into recovery, strength/power building, and aerobic development, and why it’s essential for cricketers. He covers the significance...
Published 10/03/24
In this episode, hosts Josh Kennedy and James Breese are joined by former England cricketer and Glamorgan captain, Steve James. With a career spanning 17 seasons and expertise in both cricket and rugby, Steve shares his experiences, insights, and personal journey from professional cricket to coaching.You’ll Learn:Steve emphasizes how maintaining fitness impacts both physical and mental stamina, reflecting on his disciplined approach to running between wickets and long innings.The mental chall...
Published 10/01/24
In this episode, hosts Josh Kennedy and James Breeze sit down with former South African cricketer, Andre Nel. Known for his aggressive bowling and fierce on-field persona, Andre shares insights about his career, his unique alter ego "Gunther," and what it takes to be a fast bowler at the highest level.You'll Learn:The critical role of mental toughness, sharing how his alter ego "Gunther" helped him maintain his competitive edge on the field.Andre's unique training methods, including the balan...
Published 09/26/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese welcome batting performance specialist Gio Colussi. With 26 years of experience and a renowned batting process, Gio shares his expertise on building systems for consistent batting success and unlocking the elusive run flow state.You'll Learn:Gio’s system that helps players manage thoughts, emotions, and distractions, ensuring they remain calm at the crease and maintain focus on their technique.How mental resilience, alongside physical training, i...
Published 09/24/24
In this episode, Josh and James delve into the essential strategies for improving stamina and endurance for cricket players. They break down the energy systems used in cricket and discuss the best ways to train for optimal performance both on and off the field.You'll Learn:The difference between aerobic and anaerobic systems, and how both are vital for cricketers to perform at their best during long matches.Why building an aerobic base during the off-season is crucial for cricketers and how i...
Published 09/19/24
In today's episode, Josh and James dive deep into the evolving world of online cricket coaching. They explore how hybrid coaching solutions combine the benefits of in-person training with the convenience and accountability of online tools, revolutionizing cricket coaching for modern athletes.You’ll Learn:The shift from traditional one-on-one cricket coaching to online and hybrid models, which provide continuous feedback and faster results.How online coaching tools help players stay accountabl...
Published 09/17/24
In this episode, Josh and James explore the costs involved in hiring a cricket coach. They dive into factors that affect pricing, regional differences, and the emerging trend of hybrid and online coaching. If you're curious about how much you should budget for cricket coaching and what services are included, this episode has you covered.You'll Learn:Coaching costs vary depending on factors like location, experience, and the type of coaching (in-person or online). In the UK, for instance, one-...
Published 09/12/24
In this episode, Josh and James Breese discuss how to hire the right cricket coach. They break down common mistakes and offer practical advice for finding a coach that aligns with your cricketing goals. If you want to elevate your game, this episode is packed with insights you can use.You'll Learn:Why having clear, specific cricketing goals helps you choose the right coach. Whether you're a bowler or a batsman, finding a coach who specializes in your area is key to success.Why choosing a coac...
Published 09/10/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese dive into the advantages of working with a cricket coach. They explore what makes a great coach and why both amateurs and professionals alike benefit from mentorship in cricket.You’ll Learn:The essential characteristics of a successful cricket coach, from being a mentor and diplomat to breaking down complex techniques into simple, applicable actions for players.Why even professional athletes have coaches and how having a coach can accelerate your...
Published 09/05/24
Josh Kennedy and James Breese discuss the topic of strength and conditioning for cricket. They discuss its significance, how it compares to other sports, and how cricketers can enhance their athletic performance. Get ready for expert insights on how training beyond the weight room can improve your game.You'll Learn:How strength and conditioning is a multifaceted approach that goes beyond the weight room, incorporating mobility, rehab, and nutrition to enhance athletic performance in cricket.H...
Published 09/04/24
In this episode of the Cricket Matters podcast, hosts Josh Kennedy and James Breese dive deep into the importance of health assessments for cricketers. They emphasize that health is the foundation of athletic performance, regardless of age or skill level.You'll Learn:Why a cricketer's health is crucial for achieving peak performance and standing out in the sport, particularly in today's demanding game environment.The four primary areas covered in health assessments—body, lifestyle, mortality,...
Published 08/29/24
Josh and James dive deep into the Cricket Matters Athletic Performance System, a comprehensive approach to improving athletic performance specifically for cricketers. They discuss the origins of the system and its critical components, emphasizing the importance of a structured, health-first approach to training.You'll Learn:The origins and key elements of the performance system, including the importance of health and lifestyle factors in athletic development.Why prioritizing health, including...
Published 08/27/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese dive into the essentials of nutrition for cricketers, especially for beginners. They emphasize the importance of integrating proper nutrition into training to enhance performance, recovery, and overall well-being on and off the field.You'll Learn:Why nutrition is often overlooked by amateur cricketers and how it plays a crucial role in their performance and recovery.The four essential components—activity, hydration, lifestyle, and nutrition—that ...
Published 08/22/24
In this episode, Josh Kennedy and James Breese delve into the intricacies of cricket fitness, breaking down the essential components that make up an effective training regime for cricketers. Drawing from years of experience in the fitness industry, they explore how a balanced approach to athleticism can significantly improve on-field performance.You’ll Learn:Discover why mobility, stability, balance, and coordination are the cornerstones of athletic performance, and how neglecting these can l...
Published 08/20/24