How Fit Can We Get From A Games-Based Approach? - Cian O'Dea

31/10/2025 1h 7min

Listen "How Fit Can We Get From A Games-Based Approach? - Cian O'Dea"

Episode Synopsis

Sign up for my free weekly GAA coaching insights here:👉 https://fhs-performance.kit.com/4d8709e773📹 Related video: How to Blend Games with Runs in GAA Conditioning👉 https://youtu.be/ku7lN2W5T8k?si=fbyb3VEds6BKi7tz📸 Follow Cian O’Dea on Instagram:👉 @cianodea_sc💼 Learn about my Youth S&C Consultancy Services:👉 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WyrxfpBLkpQDXeS1SqevwohFmEtOq_xFtW9s6W5FOnU/edit?usp=sharingIn this episode of Coach’s Lab, Dr John Murphy is joined by Cian O’Dea — Strength & Conditioning coach, Coach Education Manager, and PhD researcher — to discuss the physical and tactical impact of a Games-Based Approach in Gaelic Games.Cian shares findings from his research on how different game formats influence fitness, speed, and decision-making, and how coaches can build sessions that are both engaging and physically demanding.We chat about:🏐 Designing games that develop skill and conditioning🧠 Blending small-sided and large-sided formats for different outcomes🔁 When and how to include top-up running outside games📊 The physiological demands revealed through Cian’s studies🎯 Practical takeaways for coaches balancing realism, fun, and load managementWhether you’re a GAA coach, S&C practitioner, or PE teacher, this conversation offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help you get more from every session.Follow Coach’s Lab for weekly conversations on Gaelic Games, coaching, sports science, and athletic development.#GAA #StrengthAndConditioning #GamesBasedApproach #Coaching #AthleteDevelopment #SportsScience #GaelicFootball #Hurling

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