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 exter...

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 review...

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 bein...

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 tre...

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. Wa...

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...

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....

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. 🧠💪 Wha...

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 wi...

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. 🩹...

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. 💪...

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...

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’v...

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!!!