About this Video

• Video Title: #758 - All Talk with James 'Missile' Magnussen
• Channel: Hello Sport
• Speakers: James 'Missile' Magnussen, two podcast hosts (names not provided in transcript)
• Duration: 01:15:24

Introduction

This Hello Sport podcast features an interview with James "Missile" Magnussen. Magnussen discusses his recent attempt to break a world swimming record after a 7-year hiatus from competitive swimming, involving a rigorous training protocol and the use of performance-enhancing drugs administered under medical supervision. He also details his involvement with the Enhanced Games and the media's response to his endeavor.

Key Takeaways

• World Record Attempt: Magnussen attempted to break a world swimming record after a seven-year break from competition, employing a specialized training regime and performance-enhancing drugs under strict medical oversight. The attempt ultimately fell short due to overtraining and the limitations of his central nervous system.
• Enhanced Games: Magnussen is a committed athlete for the Enhanced Games, a new competition that embraces performance-enhancing drugs under strict medical supervision. This creates a unique environment where athletes can push their physical limits openly.
• Media Response: The media's reception to Magnussen's project was mixed. International media showed more excitement and understanding, while the Australian media response was more negative and critical.
• Training Protocol: The protocol used involved pharmaceutical-grade substances, resulting in significant strength and recovery gains but ultimately led to CNS overtraining. Magnussen intends to use this experience to refine his approach for future competitions.
• Supersuits: Magnussen discusses the now-banned "supersuits" used in swimming in 2009, highlighting their role in enhancing performance and explaining the challenges he faced in securing one for his attempt.