Decoding Excellence

Adam Ringler
  • 5.0 (9)
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  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

The Decoding Excellence Show, hosted by Adam Ringler, is an exploration of the human element behind world-class performers. A bit-by-bit deconstruction of the architecture and coding for human excellence. The show is centered around intimate conversations with masters of their craft, in order to deconstruct and decode the tools, tactics, and techniques that encapsulates excellence.

  1. Data Without Dogma: Rethinking Wearables, Workloads, and Return-to-Play

    11/10/2025

    Data Without Dogma: Rethinking Wearables, Workloads, and Return-to-Play

    In this Cardio Talk episode of the Decoding Excellence Show, I break down how most coaches misuse wearable technology and workload monitoring — turning valuable data into noise instead of insight. Through a detailed return-to-play case study, I walk step-by-step through how I assess individual loading, bridge the gap back to team inclusion, and structure training progressions that actually transfer to performance. I also unpack my personal ethos on data and decision-making — how we as coaches can move from collecting metrics to creating meaning. The goal isn’t more data; it’s better timing, context, and action. I share how I’m rethinking the future of sport science: accessible, concise, and actionable information delivered to the right people, in real time, when it matters most. Raw, unfiltered, and straight from a 40-minute ruck walk, this episode explores how to build systems that serve athletes — not overwhelm them. Tune in, reflect, and let’s keep decoding what excellence really looks like in modern high-performance coaching. Tune in, share with a fellow coach, and let’s keep pushing the field forward. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society — my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here:👉 ⁠⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious — packed with the best articles I’ve read, ideas I’m exploring, and concepts I’m experimenting with. 💬 Let’s Connect!If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠⁠@AdamRingler⁠⁠ on social. 🔒 Learn More About MembershipsWhat you just listened to is only a fraction of what I share with The Blueprint and The Masterplan tiers. If you want the full, extended conversation — it’s waiting for you at ⁠⁠AdamRingler.com⁠⁠. 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show!If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you listen. Your support helps grow this sport science and high-performance coaching community.

    39 min
  2. Season First Tip, NordBord Testing Insights, Creatine Research, Carb Cycling, and OxeFit Integration

    11/03/2025

    Season First Tip, NordBord Testing Insights, Creatine Research, Carb Cycling, and OxeFit Integration

    In this Cardio Talk episode of the Decoding Excellence Show, I unpack five conversations that bridge technology, nutrition, and training as we head into the start of the college basketball season. First, in this week’s Status Update, I share how we’re just three days away from tipping off the season and reflect on the journey that’s led us here. From spring development work to summer grind sessions, every rep and every meeting has built to this moment. I talk about the shift from preparation to performance and how the energy, focus, and readiness inside the gym feels different when it’s finally game week. Next, in the Technology segment, I break down how we’re using the VALD Performance NordBord to monitor hamstring health and readiness. This tool captures eccentric and isometric strength, quantifies left-right asymmetries, and helps us make better decisions on load management and rehab. I share how integrating the NordBord has sharpened our approach to performance monitoring and athlete resilience. In the Health section, I dive into the latest research from Rhonda Patrick and Peter Attia on creatine supplementation— not just as a muscle enhancer, but as a cognitive and recovery optimizer. I discuss how creatine supports both physical and mental performance, our dosing protocols, and why I consider it one of the most underrated foundations for athlete health. Then, in Nutrition, I talk through carb cycling — why we keep carbohydrates lower on off days and ramp them up on high-intensity training or game days. I discuss how carbohydrate timing impacts glycogen replenishment, recovery, and metabolic flexibility, and how this strategy teaches athletes to fuel with purpose rather than habit. Lastly, I dive into the Training section, where I share why I’m fired up about adding the OxeFit XS1 Smart Gym to our training environment. With dual digital motors, up to 250 lbs of deck tension, 140 lbs of rack resistance, and an integrated force plate and 32” touchscreen, this system combines precision, data, and adaptability. I break down how I plan to integrate it for velocity-based work, power profiling, and athlete engagement — bringing next-gen tech into a collegiate setting. Raw, unfiltered, and straight from the ruck — this episode dives into the tools, strategies, and philosophies shaping modern high-performance environments. Tune in, share with a fellow coach, and let’s keep pushing the field forward. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society — my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here:👉 ⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious — packed with the best articles I’ve read, ideas I’m exploring, and concepts I’m experimenting with. 💬 Let’s Connect!If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠@AdamRingler⁠ on social. 🔒 Learn More About MembershipsWhat you just listened to is only a fraction of what I share with The Blueprint and The Masterplan tiers. If you want the full, extended conversation — it’s waiting for you at ⁠AdamRingler.com⁠. 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show!If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you listen. Your support helps grow this sport science and high-performance coaching community.

    49 min
  3. Legacy, Load, and Lean Gains: Lessons on Coaching, Grit, and Growth

    10/26/2025

    Legacy, Load, and Lean Gains: Lessons on Coaching, Grit, and Growth

    In this Cardio Talk episode of the Decoding Excellence Show, I unpack three powerful conversations shaping coaching, performance, and personal growth. First, I reflect on the passing of Coach Kurt Hester, a true icon in Strength and Conditioning. His career embodied grit, resilience, and authenticity—and his legacy challenges all of us to coach with more heart, purpose, and conviction. Next, I dive into Tim Gabbett’s ACWR and EWMA principles, breaking down why temporary overreaching during October training isn’t reckless—it’s strategic. I explore how calculated load management builds the stress tolerance and robustness athletes need heading into non-conference tournaments and early-season play. Lastly, I share a personal update on my nutrition journey using the Macrofactor app—how I’m reverse dieting out of a long summer cut, slowly increasing calories and carbohydrates to rebuild strength and muscle. I talk about the process, mindset, and science behind adding quality weight while maintaining performance. Raw, unfiltered, and straight from the ruck—this episode blends science, coaching, and personal insight for anyone chasing excellence on and off the floor. Tune in, share with a fellow coach, and let’s keep pushing the field forward. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society—my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A full classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious—packed with the best articles I’ve read, the things I’m exploring, and ideas I’m chewing on. Think of it as your curated dose of performance, mindset, and experimentation. 💬 Let’s connect! If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AdamRingler⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on social. 🔒 Learn More About Memberships Lastly, what you just listened to was only a fraction of what I share with The Blueprint and The Masterplan tiers. If you want the FULL conversation, it's is waiting at my website. If you’re not inside, you’re already behind the ones who are. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out the Membership Tiers Here⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show! If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a minute to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you tune in. It helps more than you know and supports this growing Sport Science and High-Performance Coaching resource.

    40 min
  4. Building Stronger Women’s Basketball Athletes & Beating Travel Fatigue in College Hoops

    09/15/2025

    Building Stronger Women’s Basketball Athletes & Beating Travel Fatigue in College Hoops

    In this raw and unfiltered Cardio Talk edition of the Decoding Excellence Show, I dive into two topics that are reshaping the way we think about performance in college athletics. First up: The Evolution of Women’s Basketball Training. The women’s game has grown more physical, more explosive, and more demanding than ever before. Yet too often, strength coaches still program light, cautious workouts—more bands and calisthenics than barbells and heavy loads. In this conversation, I break down why that approach sells athletes short, and why the modern women’s basketball player needs real weight training, exposure to grinding lifts, and intentional preparation for the realities of elite competition. If we’re serious about preparing athletes for the court, then our training has to meet the actual demands of today’s women’s game. Second: Managing Travel Fatigue in College Hoops. The reality of long flights, late nights, and back-to-back games across time zones takes a massive toll on player readiness and performance. I outline five science-backed strategies to help athletes handle travel stress: controlling light exposure, prioritizing hydration, timing meals around the body clock, moving early and often, and protecting sleep quality. These simple adjustments can give athletes the edge they need to stay sharp, recover faster, and perform when it matters most. This ruck walk conversation is all about cutting through the fluff and talking shop—strength training that truly prepares women’s basketball athletes, and practical tools for optimizing performance on the road. No script, no edits—just real talk about what works. Tune in, share with a fellow coach, and let’s keep pushing the field forward. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society—my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A full classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious—packed with the best articles I’ve read, the things I’m exploring, and ideas I’m chewing on. Think of it as your curated dose of performance, mindset, and experimentation. 💬 Let’s connect! If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AdamRingler⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on social. 🔒 Learn More About Memberships Lastly, what you just listened to was only a fraction of what I share with The Blueprint and The Masterplan tiers. If you want the FULL conversation, it's is waiting at my website. If you’re not inside, you’re already behind the ones who are. ⁠⁠⁠Check out the Membership Tiers Here⁠⁠⁠ 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show! If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a minute to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you tune in. It helps more than you know and supports this growing Sport Science and High-Performance Coaching resource.

    35 min
  5. Building Trust, Rethinking Recovery, and the Future of Tech in S&C

    09/10/2025

    Building Trust, Rethinking Recovery, and the Future of Tech in S&C

    In this Cardio Talk edition of the Decoding Excellence Show, I hit on three big topics for strength & conditioning coaches: 1️⃣ Building Trust with Sport Coaches — How we can better align with head coaches by speaking their language, framing data around outcomes, and respecting practice priorities. 2️⃣ Rethinking Recovery in College Athletics — Why recovery is more than ice baths and Normatecs, and how sleep, stress, and academics all play a critical role in athlete performance. 3️⃣ The Future of Tech in S&C — From VBT to wearables, I break down where technology is headed, what’s actually useful, and how to separate game-changers from distractions. This 45-minute ruck walk conversation is raw, unedited, and unscripted—just me, sharing what’s on my mind in the world of performance and coaching. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society—my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A full classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious—packed with the best articles I’ve read, the things I’m exploring, and ideas I’m chewing on. Think of it as your curated dose of performance, mindset, and experimentation. 💬 Let’s connect! If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AdamRingler⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on social. 🔒 Learn More About Memberships Lastly, what you just listened to was only a fraction of what I share with The Blueprint and The Masterplan tiers. If you want the FULL conversation, it's is waiting at my website. If you’re not inside, you’re already behind the ones who are. ⁠⁠Check out the Membership Tiers Here⁠⁠ 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show! If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a minute to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you tune in. It helps more than you know and supports this growing Sport Science and High-Performance Coaching resource.

    44 min
  6. The Blueprint, Preseason Training & Lessons from the Weight Room | Cardio Series

    09/05/2025

    The Blueprint, Preseason Training & Lessons from the Weight Room | Cardio Series

    In this “Cardio Series” edition of the Decoding Excellence Show, I’m bringing you along on a 75-minute ruck walk to share a critical update: introducing The Blueprint—our forever FREE community on Instagram and AdamRingler.com. Inside The Blueprint, I’ll be sharing strength & conditioning tactics, performance insights, sport science strategies, and behind-the-scenes access to health optimization and coaching at the highest levels. During this long walk & talk, I also dive into some big topics shaping our field right now: Designing Preseason Training for Women’s Basketball (Beyond Conditioning) How to build durability, movement quality, and power while managing practice loads and athlete readiness. The Hidden Role of Microdosing Strength Work During the Season Why 15–20 minutes of targeted lifts can maintain performance without overwhelming athletes. Using Data Without Drowning in It Simplifying athlete monitoring by focusing only on metrics that drive actual decisions. Balancing Team Standards with Individualization Creating a team-wide training baseline that still allows for athlete-specific programming. Business Lessons from the Weight Room How coaching teaches leadership, systems, and culture-building skills that apply far beyond sport. This is a raw, unedited conversation straight from my walk to your headphones—packed with insights for coaches, sport scientists, and anyone passionate about high performance. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society—my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A full classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious—packed with the best articles I’ve read, the things I’m exploring, and ideas I’m chewing on. Think of it as your curated dose of performance, mindset, and experimentation. 💬 Let’s connect! If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AdamRingler⁠⁠⁠⁠ on social. 🔒 Learn More About Memberships Lastly, what you just listened to was only a fraction of what I share with The Blueprint and The Masterplan tiers. If you want the FULL conversation, it's is waiting at my website. If you’re not inside, you’re already behind the ones who are. ⁠Check out the Membership Tiers Here⁠ 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show! If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a minute to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you tune in. It helps more than you know and supports this growing Sport Science and High-Performance Coaching resource.

    1h 11m
  7. Pre-Season Conditioning Tests: Aerobic vs. Anaerobic | Cardio Talk

    08/29/2025

    Pre-Season Conditioning Tests: Aerobic vs. Anaerobic | Cardio Talk

    In this “Cardio Talk” edition of the Decoding Excellence Show, I’m diving into pre-season basketball conditioning tests—and why different coaches lean on very different approaches. Some favor more aerobic-based tests like the mile run or 3-minute baseline touches, while others prefer anaerobic measures like side-line touches or the 300-yard shuttle. Both approaches have their place, but which one actually prepares athletes best? In this episode, I break down: The pros and cons of aerobic vs. anaerobic conditioning tests What we’re using here at Colorado this pre-season Why building a strong aerobic base is critical for October’s 20-hour practice weeks How these tests tie into bigger decisions on readiness, recovery, and performance Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or sport scientist, this Walk & Talk pulls back the curtain on how we evaluate and prepare our teams for the grind ahead. If you’re serious about training design, athlete monitoring, or building durable and explosive players, this one’s loaded with practical takeaways you can apply immediately. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society—my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A full classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠⁠⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠⁠⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious—packed with the best articles I’ve read, the things I’m exploring, and ideas I’m chewing on. Think of it as your curated dose of performance, mindset, and experimentation. 💬 Let’s connect! If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AdamRingler⁠⁠⁠ on social. 🔒 Learn More About Memberships Lastly, what you just listened to was only a fraction of what I share with The Blueprint and The Masterplan tiers. If you want the FULL conversation, it's is waiting at my website. If you’re not inside, you’re already behind the ones who are. Check out the Membership Tiers Here 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show! If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a minute to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you tune in. It helps more than you know and supports this growing Sport Science and High-Performance Coaching resource.

    33 min
  8. Why the Beyond Power VOLTRA1 Is My Go-To Tool for Strength, Rehab, and Travel Training

    08/13/2025

    Why the Beyond Power VOLTRA1 Is My Go-To Tool for Strength, Rehab, and Travel Training

    In this “Cardio Chats” edition of the Decoding Excellence Show, I’m sharing why I’m so fired up about using the Beyond Power VOLTRA1 strength equipment here in Boulder, Colorado—and why it’s quickly becoming one of my go-to tools for strength, rehab, and performance. Recorded mid-Zone 2 ruck walk, this raw, unedited “Walk & Talk” dives into exactly how I’ve been leveraging the VOLTRA1 for: Advanced rehabilitation & prehabilitation leveraging their specific training modes Classical strength training applications for muscle and strength Custom force curve assignments for athlete-specific needs I break down: Why I travel with the VOLTRA1 anywhere we go—especially when hotel gyms lack equipment The different training modes and how I use them: Eccentric Mode – overload on the lowering phase Chain Mode – progressive loading through range of motion Inverse Chain Mode – reverse strength curves Isometric Mode – static strength at set joint angles Isodynamic Mode – blending isometric with dynamic movement Damper Mode – resistance based on movement speed How the iOS app allows you to adjust force curves—front-loading, mid-loading, or end-range loading—and why that matters for targeted rehab and performance outcomes Whether you’re a coach, clinician, or athlete, this episode offers a deep look into how modern, portable strength tech like the VOLTRA1 can open new doors in programming, athlete care, and travel-friendly training solutions. If you’re serious about training design, athlete monitoring, or building durable and explosive players, this one’s loaded with practical takeaways you can apply immediately. 🎯 Additionally, I share details about the Former Athlete Society—my private community built exclusively for former college athletes who want to level up their fitness, training, and recovery. Inside, you'll get: ✅ A community discussion board to connect & share wins ✅ A full classroom with education modules on training & performance ✅ A leaderboard to reward engagement & consistency ✅ A calendar for live coaching calls & Q&A sessions 🔥 Join the Former Athlete Society here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://adamringler.com/formerathlete⁠⁠ 📬 If you haven't already, head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠AdamRingler.com/Newsletter⁠⁠ and sign up for my weekly newsletter. It’s a weekly drop for the curious—packed with the best articles I’ve read, the things I’m exploring, and ideas I’m chewing on. Think of it as your curated dose of performance, mindset, and experimentation. 💬 Let’s connect! If anything in this episode resonated with you, reach out and engage with me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@AdamRingler⁠⁠ on social. 🎧 Thanks again for listening to the Decoding Excellence Show! If you’ve taken anything away from today’s episode, please take a minute to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes or wherever you tune in. It helps more than you know and supports this growing Sport Science and High-Performance Coaching resource.

    30 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

The Decoding Excellence Show, hosted by Adam Ringler, is an exploration of the human element behind world-class performers. A bit-by-bit deconstruction of the architecture and coding for human excellence. The show is centered around intimate conversations with masters of their craft, in order to deconstruct and decode the tools, tactics, and techniques that encapsulates excellence.

Information

  • Creator
    Adam Ringler
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    84
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Adam Ringler
  • Show Website
    Decoding Excellence