Lift Free And Diet Hard with Andrew Coates

#408 Christian Thibaudeau - How to Get Stronger

Oct 16, 2025
Christian Thibaudeau, a prominent strength and conditioning coach, shares invaluable insights into enhancing strength and power. He explains how quickly strength diminishes without training, focusing on the roles of muscle and the nervous system. The importance of training frequency for strength gains is highlighted, along with why we can't tap into our full strength potential. Christian also discusses safe power training progressions and the necessity of sport-specific practice for effective strength transfer. Plus, he previews upcoming performance supplements!
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INSIGHT

Strength Is Multi-Factorial

  • Strength comes from multiple sources: muscle mass, neural efficiency, protective mechanisms, and mindset.
  • How quickly you lose strength depends which of those components is your primary asset.
INSIGHT

Factory Analogy For Force Production

  • Thibaudeau uses a factory analogy: muscle mass is factory size; recruitment, firing rate, coordination and protection govern output.
  • Target the limiting neurological component to get the fastest strength gains.
ADVICE

Increase Frequency, Practice Lifts Often

  • Prioritize practice frequency for maximal strength gains, focusing on quality reps rather than training to failure.
  • Spread volume across more sessions so average lifters can do higher-quality work and recover better.
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