Podcast 012 – Dr. Jeff Messer Interview

Posted on September 25, 2012 by CoachJay

It is my privledge to know Jeff Messer and if you can find the time to listen to this podcast you’ll no doubt be happy that you invested that time. While Jeff has a Ph.D in Exercise Science, he’s also one of the best high school coaches in the country in his role as co-head coach of cross country at Xavier College Preparatory in Phoenix. I think that combination gives him a unique perspective on training and coaching.

Throughout the podcast we will be referring to a presentation Dr. Messer gave at the 2012 LA ‘84 Foundation Summer Cross-Country Clinic, titled “Exercise Physiology & Sport Nutrition Applications to Cross-Country Training.” To view the slides from that presentation, click here. It’s a tremendous resource.

I think everyone from high school coaches and athletes to masters level runners will benefit from the information in this podcast. Definitely of my favorite interviews thus far. Thanks Jeff!

As always, you can listen to this podcast via iTunes here.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:01:43 — 28.9MB) | Embed

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  • Matt

    Thanks for this, Jay. Two quick points:
    I was happy to hear you both talk about your mistakes with regards to plyos. I remember reading an article about stretching years back, and the author asked the featured coach how it was going. “Well, all my athletes are injured now, but when they’re back, they’ll be great!” (Paraphrasing from memory)
    And just a quick comment that Jeff didn’t get into about training here in Arizona: having to have high school kids get up so early to train makes it even more difficult for a kid to balance health (sleep and eating), training, school, and social life. A coach really has to be even more vigilant in keeping an eye on kids — especially those new to the program. I know Jeff does, as I’ve watched his girls at the State Championships….