Dunks on Demand: The Physics of Flight w/ Dr. Sam Liu

In this episode, Coach Ryan Patrick sits down with Dr. Sam Liu, biomechanist, researcher, and movement specialist with the Miami Marlins organization, to break down the true physics behind jumping, dunking, and speed.They dive into what most coaches misunderstand about impulse, force, and timing — and how understanding the mechanical objective of movement changes everything. From countermovement jumps to approach takeoffs, Sam translates complex biomechanics into simple, actionable concepts every coach and athlete can apply.If you’ve ever looked at a force plate trace or a highlight dunk and wondered what’s really happening there, this episode is for you.Chapters00:00 – Intro: Dunks, data, and the science of flight04:25 – The simple physics behind jumping higher08:45 – Why more approach speed isn’t always better12:10 – Force × Time: What coaches get wrong about impulse17:00 – The “Mechanical Objectives” framework explained21:40 – How to use biomechanics without overcomplicating training28:15 – What elite jumpers really do differently33:50 – Jumping with vs. without a ball: The overlooked factor39:10 – Translating jump mechanics to pitching and sprinting47:15 – Absorbing force vs. managing momentum52:40 – What Sam’s research is revealing about human performance57:30 – Final thoughts: curiosity, humility, and the pursuit of better coaching🔗 Links & ResourcesFollow Dr. Sam Liu on InstagramDr. Liu’s research publications: Connect with Coach Ryan Patrick:  Key Takeaways✅ What great jumpers do with force✅ Mechanical objectives simplify coaching by focusing on outcomes, not aesthetics.✅ The biggest limiter to jump height ✅ Force plates are tools → interpretation > data.✅ The principles that make a better jumper also make a better pitcher or sprinter.