The science behind
the practitioner
Dr Andrew Usher is a Visiting Research Fellow at Abertay University, specialising in NIRS technology, muscle oxygenation monitoring, and evidence-based conditioning for elite sport.
His published research in journals including the European Journal of Applied Physiology examines the critical disconnect between traditional monitoring methods and actual physiological responses — particularly in high-intensity and combat sport contexts.
Andrew consults for organisations at the highest level of sport, translating complex physiological data into actionable training decisions. His Energy System Development mentorship has trained a growing community of practitioners who now bring data-driven conditioning to their own athletes worldwide.
A Full Member of The Physiological Society and educator for the British Boxing Board of Control, he bridges the gap between laboratory research and the training floor.
Seeing what others miss
NIRS technology reveals the physiological truth beneath the surface. When heart rate tells you one story, muscle oxygenation tells you what's actually happening at the tissue level.
NIRS & Muscle Oxygenation
Near-infrared spectroscopy provides real-time insight into SmO₂ and tHb dynamics during training. Understanding desaturation patterns, reoxygenation rates, and oxygen kinetics transforms how we prescribe and monitor conditioning.
Data-Driven Conditioning
Integrating heart rate, NIRS, GPS, and body temperature data creates a multi-dimensional picture of athlete readiness and response. We build decision frameworks that cut through noise and deliver clarity.
Energy System Development
Modern conditioning demands precision. Understanding metabolic thresholds, mitochondrial function, and energy system interplay enables programming that targets the exact physiological adaptations your athletes need.
Energy System Development
Mentorship
The acclaimed course that has trained over 60 practitioners in the science and application of energy system development for elite sport.
How we work
From elite team consultancy to one-on-one mentorship, every engagement is grounded in published research and practical application.
Elite Organisation Support
Embedded or advisory consultancy for professional teams and national programmes. We integrate NIRS monitoring, conditioning audit, and practitioner development into your existing performance infrastructure.
Practitioner Development
Bespoke mentorship for S&C coaches, sport scientists, and practitioners who want to deepen their understanding of conditioning science and NIRS application within their specific sporting context.
Individual Athlete Testing
Comprehensive sport science assessments including metabolic testing, muscle oxygenation profiling, and the creation of personalised performance blueprints built on your physiological data.
Conferences & Workshops
Research-led presentations on NIRS technology, conditioning methodology, and the future of athlete monitoring. Available for conferences, team education days, and academic institutions.
Peer-reviewed evidence
Our methods aren't just opinions — they're published in leading journals and subjected to rigorous peer review.
What practitioners say
Ready to see what your data is really telling you?
Whether you're a practitioner looking to upskill, a team seeking consultancy, or an athlete who wants elite-level insight — let's talk.