In this episode of The Speed Lab Podcast, host Les Spellman sits down with Matt Hank to challenge conventional speed training.
They dive deep into acceleration and max velocity mechanics, why most coaching cues get lost in translation, and how elite speed is actually developed.
The Universal Speed Rating is looking to work with more elite training businesses through our Speed Lab partnership. If you are interested in systemizing your speed training and growing your business, click the link below to schedule a intro call with our team.
https://universalspeedrating.com/learn-more-partner-with-universal-speed-rating-speed-lab-podcast
Episode Timestamps00:00 – Matt’s background & entry into speed training
03:50 – Why respectful disagreement moves the industry forward
05:00 – Building athletes from the ground up
08:50 – USR milestone & why testing matters
09:32 – Horizontal force vs coaching language
14:00 – Organizing acceleration in a weekly plan
19:00 – Key components of an acceleration model
21:00 – Assessing athletes & teaching coaches what to see
25:15 – Principles of max velocity
27:00 – Do sprint drills actually matter?
32:40 – Strength, coordination, and late swing mechanics
36:50 – Forward foot speed explained
38:09 – Why flexion-based drills fall short
42:17 – Why getting better at drills ≠ getting faster
44:18 – What “works” vs what actually improves speed
48:00 – Extension, reflexive movement, and elite sprint models
52:20 – Reactive vs non-reactive athletes
55:00 – Physical qualities vs coaching cues
58:00 – Advice for athletes right now
59:00 – Individual differences in sprinting
01:01:00 – Closing thoughts on open dialogue & growth
