This Rugby Muscle Podcast is a chat with Sam Portland, a strength and conditioning expert who focuses on debunking common myths in the world of team sports.
Sam highlights the importance of individualized training systems, touches on the inefficiencies and flawed metrics in current strength and conditioning programs, and advocates for a more holistic approach to athlete development. This episode is a proper chat for those interested in the real-world applications and pitfalls of traditional S&C practices, particularly within rugby.

The Sport Speed System Book:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DBRCL9FP

Sam's Socials:

https://www.youtube.com/@SamPortland

https://www.instagram.com/thesamportland/

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Rugby Muscle 1on1 Coaching
https://rugby-muscle.com/elite/

For The Rugby Athlete Blueprint
https://rugby-muscle.com/14DRAB

Team Rugby Muscle
https://rugbymuscle.programs.app/

00:00 Introduction and Elevator Pitch
01:13 Breaking into Strength and Conditioning
02:07 Challenges and Realizations
06:01 Educational System Critique
09:54 Developing a Training System
16:09 Specialization in Training
21:59 Testing and Metrics in Sports
25:59 Balancing Training and Recovery
33:45 The Importance of Skill Acquisition in Rugby
34:21 Challenges in Coaching and Player Development
36:11 The Role of Strength and Conditioning
37:26 Understanding Player Archetypes
44:48 Ground Zero for Speed Training
49:37 The Misleading Nature of Technique
50:56 The Importance of Intent in Training
55:04 The Role of Speed in Rugby
01:01:39 The Future of Coaching and Training
01:06:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Revolutionizing Rugby Speed, Strength & Conditioning (and why) - with Sam Portland