Dr. Emily Splichal, a Functional Podiatrist and Human Movement Specialist, Founder of EBFA Global, Creator of the Barefoot Training Specialist® Certification, Author of Barefoot Strong, and CEO/Founder of Naboso Technology, joins us on the Tennis Fitness Podcast. With more than 23 years of experience in the fitness industry, Dr. Splichal has focused her medical career on researching postural alignment and human movement in relation to barefoot science, foot to core integration, and sensory integration.

Dr. Emily delves into the science behind Naboso Technology, a company she founded that specializes in proprioceptive insoles and surfaces designed to enhance sensory stimulation and improve movement efficiency. Dr. Emily Splichal's wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of podiatry and human movement make her a valuable resource for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking to optimize their performance and prevent injuries.

https://www.naboso.com

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Jim Harp and I explored the crucial role of fundamental movement in tennis players. We emphasized the importance of developing a strong foundation of movement skills, such as agility, coordination, balance, and speed, in order to excel in the sport. Jim, being a USTA High Performance Coach and a PTR Master Professional and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist, shared his expertise on how these fundamental movement skills contribute to a player's overall performance on the court.

Furthermore, we touched upon the atmosphere within a tennis academy. Jim, being the proprietor of Harp Performance Tennis, provided valuable insights into creating a positive and supportive environment for young players to thrive. We discussed the significance of fostering a culture of hard work and discipline within the academy. Jim emphasized the role of coaches in creating a nurturing and motivating atmosphere that encourages players to reach their full potential.

Lastly, we delved into the topic of early specialization in junior players and its impact on their development. Jim expressed his concerns about the increasing trend of young athletes focusing solely on tennis at an early age, neglecting other sports and activities. We discussed the potential drawbacks of this approach, including burnout, overuse injuries, and limited overall athletic development. Jim emphasized the importance of a well-rounded athletic foundation and encouraged young players to engage in a variety of sports and activities to enhance their overall physical abilities. In addition to discussing fundamental movement and early specialization, we also explored the topic of fitness programming for tennis players. Jim shared his insights on designing effective training programs that target specific physical attributes required for tennis, such as strength and power. We discussed the importance of tailoring these programs to individual players' needs and goals, taking into consideration their age, skill level, and physical condition.

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The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) is an independent body established in 2021 by the ATP, ITF, WTA and Grand Slams to promote, encourage, enhance and safeguard the integrity of their professional tennis events worldwide. The ITIA works closely with the sport, to prevent potential corruptors negatively impacting the game and to administer an effective anti-doping and testing programme. As coaches and players, it is not enough to simply possess knowledge and skills; we must also be fully aware of the guidelines and regulations that govern tennis. Understanding and adhering to these guidelines is not only essential for maintaining a level playing field but also for ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved.

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