In this episode, Josh and James delve into the essential strategies for improving stamina and endurance for cricket players. They break down the energy systems used in cricket and discuss the best ways to train for optimal performance both on and off the field.

You'll Learn:

• The difference between aerobic and anaerobic systems, and how both are vital for cricketers to perform at their best during long matches.
• Why building an aerobic base during the off-season is crucial for cricketers and how it helps with recovery and sustaining performance throughout an entire game.
• The importance of fast recovery between short bursts of high-intensity activity, such as running between wickets, and how aerobic training supports this.
• Practical advice on how hiking, walking, and low-intensity zone two training can significantly improve a cricketer’s stamina over time.

Key Takeaways:

• To sustain performance throughout a long cricket match, cricketers must first build a strong aerobic base, which supports recovery and endurance.
• Cricket involves both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Training both helps players to perform short, intense actions while maintaining stamina over extended periods.
• A key aspect of cricket training is improving the ability to recover quickly between short bursts of activity, like running singles or twos, which can make or break performance.
• Off-season training should prioritize longer aerobic exercises such as walking or hiking, which help build a foundation for higher intensity work when the season begins.
• Improving movement economy and VO2 max can make cricketers more efficient in using their energy during play, allowing them to perform better and for longer.

Quotes:

"If you don't maximally develop your aerobic energy system first, you will never truly maximize your anaerobic threshold."

"You need to be everything as a cricketer, fast, explosive, and have the endurance of a marathon runner."

"The game of cricket is about recovering faster for the next ball, again and again."

Read more on our blog here!

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com

In today's episode, Josh and James dive deep into the evolving world of online cricket coaching. They explore how hybrid coaching solutions combine the benefits of in-person training with the convenience and accountability of online tools, revolutionizing cricket coaching for modern athletes.

You’ll Learn:

• The shift from traditional one-on-one cricket coaching to online and hybrid models, which provide continuous feedback and faster results.
• How online coaching tools help players stay accountable and on track with training, even between in-person sessions.
• How combining in-person sessions with online guidance can accelerate progress, especially in developing cricket-specific techniques and habits.
• The hurdles of technology and how some cricketers may struggle to adapt to the digital side of hybrid coaching.

Key Takeaways:

• Combining in-person and online coaching offers faster progress by allowing athletes to stay accountable and continuously work on their skills.
• Regular communication between coach and player, even outside of sessions, builds stronger relationships and ensures consistent improvement.
• Progress in cricket isn’t just about what happens during training sessions; it’s the additional work between sessions that makes the difference.
• While there’s a learning curve with using tech for coaching, it allows for detailed feedback and better overall athlete progress.
• Tailored plans, including strength, conditioning, and technical drills, enable athletes to work toward their goals efficiently.

Quotes:

"It’s not the work in the gym or on the field that gets results; it’s the other 180 hours in the week."

"Hybrid coaching moves the needle faster—it’s all about communication, accountability, and doing the right work."

"Some people prefer working in person, but the hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds for faster results."

Read more on our blog here!

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com

In this episode, Josh and James explore the costs involved in hiring a cricket coach. They dive into factors that affect pricing, regional differences, and the emerging trend of hybrid and online coaching. If you're curious about how much you should budget for cricket coaching and what services are included, this episode has you covered.

You'll Learn:

• Coaching costs vary depending on factors like location, experience, and the type of coaching (in-person or online). In the UK, for instance, one-on-one coaching ranges from £30 to £150 per session, while online programs can cost between £25 to £350 per month.
• The concept of hybrid coaching, where clients combine face-to-face sessions with online accountability and support. This method helps athletes work on their game outside of the traditional one-on-one setting.
• The cost of cricket coaching can drastically differ by country, with Australia averaging $200–$300 per session and South Africa being much cheaper due to currency differences. Regional factors significantly impact coaching rates.
• Aside from coaching fees, athletes might incur additional costs for venue rentals, transport, or purchasing equipment. Planning for these expenses is essential to accurately budgeting for long-term coaching.

Key Takeaways:

• The cost of a cricket coach varies greatly based on location and the coach's credentials, with higher-end international coaches charging more for one-on-one sessions.
• A combination of in-person and online coaching allows for greater flexibility and consistent progress between sessions, moving away from the limitations of traditional one-on-one coaching.
• It's important to factor in additional expenses like venue hire, transportation, and equipment when budgeting for coaching, as these can add up over time.
• Rather than focusing solely on one-off sessions, investing in a 12-week plan or even longer provides better results and accountability, ensuring continuous improvement.
• Although online cricket coaching is still relatively new, it offers a cost-effective alternative to in-person sessions and can be highly beneficial, especially when combined with physical training.

Quotes:

“You don’t just work with me for an hour and then not hear from me for a week – we hold you accountable between sessions.”

“People need to start thinking beyond one-to-one sessions and focus on a 12-week plan for long-term improvement."

“Cricket coaching isn't just about what happens in the session. It's about what you do in between to improve your game.”

Read more on our blog here!

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com