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 Timestamps

00:00 – 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

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