Building Resilient Athletes and Lasting Performance with Expert Strength and Conditioning Coach Chris Tombs. How to Build Resilient, High-Performing Athletes Through Smarter Training and Coaching

How can athletes train smarter for long-term success? Performance coach Chris Tombs joins host Martin Jones to discuss how to build physically and psychologically resilient athletes. With more than 30 years of experience in elite sport and military performance, Chris shares insights on sustainable training, recovery, and human connection in coaching.

The conversation covers velocity-based training, reducing orthopaedic stress, and maintaining peak performance without burnout. Chris explains how to create training systems that promote longevity, adaptability, and consistent improvement, helping athletes perform better for longer.

This episode is a practical guide for coaches, trainers, and anyone interested in the science of performance, recovery, and resilience.

Key Topics:

• Coaching philosophy and athlete development
• Lowering the orthopaedic cost of training
• Longevity and durability in high-impact sports
• Velocity-based training and data-informed performance
• Building trust and human connection in coaching
• Advice for new strength and conditioning professionals

Chris Tombs has over 30 years of experience in strength and conditioning across professional rugby, action sports, cricket, and the military. His current work focuses on preparing soldiers for the physical and mental demands of their roles.

Connect with Chris Tombs:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

00:26 Chris’ Background

02:20 Evolution in Coaching Philosophy

06:11 Challenges and Strategies in Coaching

11:06 Dealing with Difficult Athletes

16:12 Longevity in High-Impact Sports

21:10 Lowering the Orthopaedic Cost of Training

27:50 The Importance of Consistent Training

28:36 Effective Warm-up Strategies

29:07 Maximising Short Workouts

31:21 The Long-Term View on Fitness

34:44 The Role of Velocity-Based Training

40:55 Challenges of High-Volume Training

43:01 Advice for Young S&C Coaches

46:57 The Human Element in Coaching

48:49 Final Thoughts and Takeaways