In this episode of the Run Smarter Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Keith Barr from the University of California, Davis, to uncover groundbreaking research on tendon health, rehabilitation, and performance. Dr. Barr shares his expertise on tendon tissue engineering, the role of mechanical loading in healing tendinopathies, and how to reverse chronic scar tissue formation. Whether you're a runner struggling with tendon pain or a coach looking to optimize performance, this episode is packed with game-changing insights.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
🔹 Why tendons develop scar tissue – and how stress shielding plays a role in tendinopathy
🔹 How to reverse chronic tendon damage – with the right type of loading strategy
🔹 The difference between tendon stiffness and perceived stiffness – and how it impacts performance and injury risk
🔹 Why isometric exercises are a game-changer – and how to use them effectively in rehab and injury prevention
🔹 The role of hormones in tendon injuries – including how menopause and testosterone affect tendon health
🔹 How to train smarter to avoid tendon injuries – including the optimal way to structure your running volume
Key Takeaways & Actionable Strategies
✅ Target the scar tissue with load – Use isometric holds after a workout to gradually reintroduce load to the weak areas
✅ Don’t rush into plyometrics – Start with long-duration isometric exercises before progressing to slow, heavy strength training
✅ Train twice a day for better tendon adaptation – Splitting your runs into two sessions improves tendon recovery and adaptation
✅ Respect the first few sessions of new training – The first track session, spikes workout, or hill session introduces high jerk forces, increasing injury risk
✅ Consider hormonal factors – Women going through menopause may need to adjust their training due to changes in tendon stiffness and collagen synthesis
Dr. Keith Barr’s Research & Resources
What is Overcoming Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy?
Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy is a horrible condition affecting athletes and non-athletes alike. If you fall victim to the misguided information that is circulating the internet, symptoms can persist for months, sometimes years and start impacting your everyday life.
This podcast is for those looking for clear, evidence-based guidance to overcome Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy. Hosted by Brodie Sharpe, an experienced physiotherapist and content creator, this podcast aims to provide you with the clarity & control you desperately need.
Each episode brings you one step closer to finally overcoming your proximal hamstring tendinopathy. With solo episodes by Brodie, success stories from past sufferers and professional interviews from physiotherapists, coaches, researchers and other health professionals so you get world class content.
Tune in from episode #1 to reap the full benefits and let's get your rehabilitation back on track!