#110 Kyle Stull

X Factor Team Roping presents a powerful conversation with Kyle Stull—team roper, coach, and expert in human performance with a graduate degree in Rehabilitative Science and a Doctorate in Behavior. In this episode, we explore the intersection of science and sport: how muscle memory, natural talent, and deliberate practice come together to create elite-level roping. Kyle shares how his unique background bridges the physical and mental aspects of performance—from injury prevention and recovery, to building sustainable routines that keep athletes sharp without burning out. We dive into the role of goal setting, the importance of finding the right coach, and how behavioral science can help ropers maintain focus, motivation, and longevity in the sport. Whether you’re chasing your next header, refining your loop, or just trying to stay consistent under pressure, Kyle’s insights offer real-world tools to elevate your mindset and your mechanics. This is more than rodeo talk—it’s performance science applied to the arena. The Best way to reach Kyle is through email: [email protected] References Coyle, D. (2009). The talent code: Greatness isn’t born. It’s grown. Here’s how. Bantam. Ericsson, A. (2016). Summing up hours of any type of practice versus identifying optimal practice activities. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 11(3), 351–354. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691616635600 Ericsson, K. A., Krampe, R. T., & Tesch-Römer, C. (1993). The role of deliberate practice in the acquisition of expert performance. Psychological Review, 100(3), 363–406. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.100.3.363 Herrigel, E. (1953). Zen in the art of archery (R. F. C. Hull, Trans.). Pantheon Books. Huberman, A. (Host). (2022, September 5). Focus toolkit: Tools to improve your focus & concentration [Video]. YouTube. Huberman Lab. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb5zpo5WDG4 Huberman, A. (Host). (2023, March 20). Science-based mental training & visualization for improved learning [Video]. YouTube. Huberman Lab. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RYyQRQFgFk Sun Tzu. (2005). The art of war (L. Giles, Trans.). Filiquarian Publishing. (Original work published ca. 5th century BCE)