The Athletic Potential Podcast

In this episode of the Athletic Potential Podcast, we break down the coaching cues that actually help athletes perform better in sport. From youth athletes learning movement patterns to advanced athletes trying to maximize performance, we discuss how the right cue at the right time can improve coordination, power, confidence, and overall athletic development.We dive into the research behind external vs. internal cues, motor learning principles, communication strategies, and practical coaching methods that can immediately transfer to the field, court, or weight room. We also share real-world best practices we use every day with athletes at Athletic Potential to help them move better, compete harder, and stay healthy.Want to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this Athletic Potential Podcast episode, a physical therapist answers a listener’s question about the most common baseball and softball injuries outside the shoulder and elbow, explaining that low back pain is a major issue (with hamstrings also common in baseball) and highlighting adolescent pars stress fractures caused by repetitive high-speed lumbar extension and rotation. The episode reviews basic lumbar motion limits to show why the low back is poorly suited for rotation, describes typical symptom progression, notes that imaging can help determine status, and outlines common management including activity restriction for roughly 2–5 months, with many returning to play (about 80%) though overall return may take 6–8 months. Prevention focuses on adequate seasonal downtime, a gradual ramp-up of volume and intensity, improved mechanics, and core control using planks, side planks, and bird dogs/dead bugs rather than crunches or sit-ups.00:00 Welcome and Setup01:17 Listener Question01:53 Common Non Arm Injuries02:38 Why Throwers Get Back Pain03:33 Pars Defects Explained07:49 Diagnosis Imaging and Timeline11:18 Prevention Through Ramp Up14:56 Skip Crunches Build Core16:21 Plank Bird Dog Routine21:17 Wrap Up and Next StepsWant to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

This Athletic Potential Podcast episode answers two questions about recovery and injury. For a softball pitcher who isn’t recovering well, the host recommends prioritizing hydration and real food within 30–45 minutes post-outing, then maximizing sleep, using light movement like walking to promote blood flow, limiting passive sitting, avoiding post-game ice because it decreases blood flow, and being cautious with hot tubs due to dehydration risk (10 minutes max if used, then rehydrate). He suggests non-fatiguing electrical muscle stimulation for 45 minutes to two hours (e.g., Marc Pro or Compex recovery settings) to aid recovery, especially when time is short. For handling a shoulder injury, he emphasizes understanding how it happened and what structures are involved, maximizing blood flow (movement, heat if aching, e-stim), avoiding anti-inflammatories and RICE, keeping pain at 3/10 or less, then gradually reloading and field-testing until fully returned.Marc Pro Promo Code: POTENTIAL00:00 Healing And Recovery Intro01:00 Listener Question Setup02:43 Pitching Recovery Context03:57 Hydration And Food First05:52 Sleep And Phone Habits06:54 Blood Flow Recovery Basics08:42 Walks Hot Tubs And Rest11:06 Why Ice Slows Healing12:29 RICE Protocol Critique14:47 Recovery Tech And E Stim17:18 Compex Vs Mark Pro18:26 Mark Pro vs Budget Units18:58 Affiliate Code and Savings19:52 Tournament Recovery Checklist22:21 Switching to Injury Q&A22:50 Injury Basics Blood Flow23:59 Pain Rules and Movement26:03 Inflammation Not Ibuprofen27:38 Loading and Wolff Law29:44 Progression and Field Tests34:16 No RICE for Shoulders35:46 Wrap Up and Submit QuestionsWant to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!!!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode, we’re talking about one of the most common complaints we see in athletes of all ages — knee pain.Whether it’s a baseball player dealing with pain during squats, a soccer player struggling after a hard season, or a young athlete trying to push through discomfort during growth spurts, knee pain can quickly limit performance and confidence.At Athletic Potential, we don’t just treat the knee. We look at the entire system. Using a joint-by-joint approach, strength testing, movement analysis, and sport-specific loading, we work to understand why the knee is hurting in the first place. Often the issue isn’t the knee itself, but problems with the hip, ankle, strength, or how an athlete is managing workload.In this episode, we’ll talk about the most common causes of knee pain in athletes, how we evaluate it, and the strategies we use to help athletes get back to training and competition stronger than before.Let’s get into Episode 61 of the Athletic Potential Podcast.Want to WATCH this episode. Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of the Athletic Potential Podcast, Dr. Mike Mathews breaks down what the research actually says about youth strength training, sport specialization, injury risk, and long-term athletic development.If you’re a parent, coach, or athlete who wants to build performance without increasing injury risk, this episode gives you clear, evidence-based guidelines you can apply immediately.Want to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

Is earlier always better? In this episode, we break down the truth about youth sports specialization — when it helps, when it hurts, and how to make the right call for your child. Learn what the research says about injury risk, long-term performance, and why multi-sport athletes often have the upper hand. A must-listen for parents navigating the balance between passion and pressure in youth sports.Want to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

Back pain is one of the most common — and most stubborn — problems for both athletes and everyday movers. In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we break down why back pain can be so resilient, what’s actually happening in the body, and why chasing symptoms rarely works.We’ll cover: • Why back pain often becomes chronic or keeps coming back • The difference between tissue injury vs. movement dysfunction • How the spine, hips, and core interact to create (or relieve) pain • Common mistakes people make when trying to “fix” their back • Evidence-based strategies for lasting relief and performanceWhether you’re a high-level athlete, weekend warrior, or someone who’s tried everything, this episode will help you understand what’s really driving your pain and what you can do about it.👉 Subscribe for more episodes on rehab, performance, and unlocking your true athletic potential.🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube📍 Follow @athlpotential for more contentHave a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode, I dive into a powerful yet often overlooked method for improving throwing performance: strengthening the brain-muscle connection. By improving how your nervous system communicates with your muscles, you can throw with more velocity and less pain. I break down how this connection works, why it matters for throwers, and specific strategies to help you train it effectively.🧠💪 What you’ll learn:• What the brain-muscle connection is and how it affects throwing• How to activate the right muscles at the right time• Drills and cues to improve efficiency, control, and power• Why better neuromuscular control leads to less stress on the armIf you’re a pitcher or position player looking to throw harder and stay healthy doing it, this episode is a game-changer.Want to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this Q&A-style episode, I’m answering three of the most common and important questions I get from athletes, coaches, and clients:1️⃣ What are the best recovery strategies?I break down the most effective ways to speed up recovery, reduce soreness, and get the most out of your training — including tools, timing, and what to avoid.2️⃣ How do you treat tennis elbow?Whether you’re dealing with nagging elbow pain or just starting to feel it creep in, I explain the causes of tennis elbow and walk through simple, proven ways to manage and treat it.3️⃣ What’s new at Athletic Potential?We’ve got some exciting things in the works — from new programs to updated equipment and expanded services. I share what’s coming next and how we’re continuing to raise the bar for athlete care and performance.If you’re serious about staying healthy, performing better, and keeping up with what we’re building at Athletic Potential, this episode is for you.Want to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode, I’m breaking down the best shoulder exercises for athletes dealing with pain — and pairing that with the most effective forearm strengthening exercises for throwers looking to boost performance and stay injury-free. Whether you’re in recovery mode or prepping for the season, this one’s packed with practical tips and strategies to keep your arm feeling great and throwing strong.🩹 For the Shoulder:• Low-impact exercises to reduce pain and improve mobility• What to avoid when your shoulder’s flared up• How to safely rebuild strength without setting yourself back💪 For the Forearm:• Targeted exercises to build durability and throw harder• The connection between forearm strength and elbow protection• How to integrate these into your throwing programIf you’re rehabbing, ramping up, or just want to take better care of your arm, this is a must-listen.Want to WATCH this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode, we’re breaking down the must-do exercises for softball pitchers who want to throw harder, stay healthy, and dominate on the mound. Whether you’re a player, coach, or parent, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to build a training program that actually translates to better pitching. From strength and mobility to arm care and power development — I’m covering it.💪 What you’ll learn:• Top strength exercises for increased velocity• Mobility work that keeps your shoulder and hips in top shape• The role of core stability and lower body strength in pitching• How to structure your workouts in-season vs. off-season• My go-to arm care and recovery toolsIf you want to level up your game and take care of your body while doing it, this one’s for you.Want to WATCH this episode. Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode, I sit down with professional fastpitch softball pitcher Chloe Temples to dive deep into the world of competitive softball. Chloe shares her journey from youth leagues to the professional stage, the mental and physical grind of being an elite athlete, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. We talk training routines, overcoming setbacks, staying locked in during high-pressure games, and what it’s really like behind the scenes in pro softball. Whether you’re a softball fan, athlete, or just someone chasing big dreams — Chloe’s story will leave you inspired.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

Welcome to The Athletic Potential Podcast, the show where we dive deep into unlocking your full potential as an athlete. I'm your host, Mike Mathews, and today we’re tackling two major topics that many athletes face during their careers: cranky wrists and ACL surgery.Whether you’re dealing with the nagging pain of wrist issues or wondering what recovery looks like after an ACL surgery, we’ve got you covered. We’ll be breaking down why these injuries happen, how to handle them, and what you can expect during the recovery process so you can get back to doing what you love—performing at your best.Let’s dive in!Want to WATCH this episode? Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we are discussing ways to decrease arm stress during throwing.WATCH this episode!!!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we will be discussing how to manage in-season shoulder and elbow pain.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we will be discussing spinal health basics, as well as what is the hardest part of the rehab process following Tommy John surgery.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing a novel soccer conditioning program that we have just implemented. Also, we introduce, John, The Student!!!Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing the 5 reasons why you are not throwing faster.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing warm-up routines.  The good, the bad, and the ugly. Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of the athletic potential podcast, we will be discussing key things you can look for in your youth athletes in regards to predicting injuries. Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of the athletic potential podcast, we will be discussing how long it takes to return to sport following a muscle strain, as well as our go to low back stretching exercises.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing preseason as well as start of season injury rates in baseball and softball, as well as how to prevent UCL injury at the start of a season.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode, the Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing the key aspects of a successful knee surgery rehabilitation, as well as our recommendations for in-season weight training for our softball athletes.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of the Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to be discussing when we have our female athletes start weight training, as well as whether we have our pitchers ice after an outing. Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of the Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to be discussing rotator cuff strength and when you have enough of it, as well as when baseball players should specialize into one sport.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of the Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to be discussing Little Leaguer syndrome as well as what our professional baseball pitchers are doing to prepare to throw.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing quick tests that we use to determine injury risk for our softball players and our baseball players, as well as how we recommend or go about decreasing arm stress with throwing.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to be discussing one topic, and that is what our pitchers do to prepare to throw.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of the Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to be discussing  shoulder pain in a softball athlete. We're going be talking about the number one  aspect or training variable that we try and modify to improve velocity, as well as the most common advice we give out here at Athletic Potential. Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of the Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to be discussing sprained ankles and how we work with our clients. Here we're going to talk about explosiveness or strength, which is more important, as well as whether we, we recommend flat ground work or using a short box technique for our pitchers.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to talk about how to get rid of a kinked neck. We're also going to talk about how to perform distance-based off-season throwing programs in the cold, as well as whether we like free weight versus band arm care routines.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

 On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing plantar fasciitis and  treatment. We'll be talking about how long youth baseball players should be taking off for an off season, as well as the best exercise for softball players. Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we'll be discussing oblique strains, we'll be discussing ACL injury prevention, as well as our pull-up standards for our athletes here at Athletic Potential.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

On this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast, we are going to talk about one specific topic today, and that is the key factors of a successful return following Tommy John surgery.Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss how to treat shoulder impingement, proper development and timing of gaining strength and gaining size (mass), and also our recommendations in regards to year round throwing programs. Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we interview the world famous Dan John! We discuss a lot of topics including but not limited to youth sports specialization, arm care for throwers, when pitchers should get their lifts in, and how to perform at your best when it counts! There is so much wisdom in this episode so be ready to take some notes! Want to watch this episode? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss the case of runner with pain in the front of her knee and how we were able to help her back to running pain-free. We also discuss our most prescribed core exercises for youth (and everyone really) athletes. We also answer a question about cardiovascular training for throwers. Want to watch the Podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss treatment for a softball pitcher with hip impingement, how we determine where to start with our athletes at Athletic Potential, and the best quick tests we use to monitor the progress of our athletes. Want to watch the podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss treatment for Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis), incorporating more rotational strength into your programming, and how we use kettlebells, dumbbells, and barbells with our youth clients. Want to watch the podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss treatment of a volleyball player with a lat strain, how we determine what type of "arm-care" to perform for our athletes, as well as what we have been doing lately to improve the outcomes of our clients. Want to watch the podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss the case of a female collegiate javelin thrower, give suggestions on exercises for softball (and baseball) players on low back pain, and discuss weekend warrior recovery strategies!Want to WATCH the Athletic Potential Podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss the case of a collegiate pitcher with an unstable shoulder, most common injuries in softball pitchers and how to avoid them, and how we manage our multi-sport athletes at Athletic Potential. Want to watch the podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss the case of 12 year old with Little Leaguer's Elbow and his protocol for return to baseball. We also discuss recommendations on whether it is better to play in more games or to spend more time practicing to develop skills and then finish with discussing movement standards in youth athletes. Want to watch the podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss how we are managing a collegiate baseball player with rotator cuff pain, protocol for sudden thoracic spine pain, our current project list here at Athletic Potential, and A key to helping our athletes return to their sports. Watch the episode HERE: Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episodes of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss how we are managing a client who just (days ago) had her ACL reconstructed. We also discuss some of the main training emphases with our youth clients as well as why some players throw harder (higher velocity) following Tommy John surgery. Want to watch the podcast? Click HERE.Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss treatment of a forearm muscle strain in a softball pitcher, how we integrate speed, agility, power, and strength training into all our programs with our athletes, and our recommendations on managing acute/new injuries (not to mention Mike's opinion on the RICE protocol). Want to watch the podcast? Click HERE!Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss treatment of a player with athletic pubalgia (sports hernia), how we recommend our starting pitchers recover between outings, and how we use different devices and technology in our facility. Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss the case of a softball pitcher with forearm pain, the gold standard for UCL testing as well as our recommendations for timing to get a MRI, and the most common injuries in softball and what we do at Athletic Potential to prevent/reduce them. Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss a case of youth elbow pain, which exercises we use with most of our clients, how we program stretching for your clients, and our recommendations for how we "finish" our training sessions. Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!

In this episode of The Athletic Potential Podcast we discuss rehabilitation following a shoulder labrum repair, our recommendations for squatting with our throwing athletes, and conditioning recommendations for softball players. Have a question for the podcast? Go HERE to get it answered!!!