The Strength Coach Podcast

In this special anniversary episode of the Strength Coach Podcast (#424), Host Anthony Renna and Mike Boyle discuss Coach Boyle’s recent visit to a few gyms in Nashville, Ridiculous HIIT recommendations, Voodoo Flossing, the value of isolated shoulder work and whether or not you should put the barbell bench press to bed.Brought to you by Perform Better, experts in functional training and rehabilitation.Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.Highlights of the episode:  - A heartfelt tribute to Rob Milani and his impact on the fitness community.  - A chat about Coach Boyle’s recent gym visits in Nashville with Gunnar Peterson and Brian Kula.  - We spoke about the controversial discussion: Is it time to put the barbell bench press to bed?  - Navigating the ridiculous recommendations by influencers- Tips on using isolated shoulder work and the growing popularity of voodoo flossing for joint relief.  - Why and How Coach Boyle is using Voodoo Flossing- Business for Unicorns segment with Mark Fisher exploring goal-setting frameworks inspired by “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”  Get Mark’s goal-setting framework by emailing him at Mark@BusinessforUnicorns.comWant to build a fitness business that creates more income, impact, and freedom?Here are some FREE biz-building resources from our friends at Business for Unicorns (https://businessforunicorns.com):**Get the Little Book of Gym Marketing Secrets HERE- (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/gym-marketing-book)**Book a free 10-minute intro call HERE (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/brainstorm)**Follow BFU on Instagram HERE (https://www.instagram.com/businessforunicorns/)**Subscribe to Mark Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing) Whether you're a trainer, strength coach, or fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable lessons, heartfelt reflections, and game-changing training strategies. Don’t miss out!Thanks for listening—be sure to check out the full episode and join the conversation in the comments!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:59 - 18 Year Anniversary Celebration04:59 - Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Power Play Insights09:46 - Coaches Corner with Coach Boyle10:25 - Coach Boyle Visits Other Gyms in Nashville15:38 - 4x4 HIIT Training protocol19:54 - How Hard Should You Train Effectively20:42 - Defining "High" Intensity for Adults22:00 - Starting with 10:20 intervals23:20 - Why Adults Dislike Intervals24:10 - Making Hard Workouts Manageable27:10 - Individual Reactions to Hard Exercise28:20 - The Best Exercise for Everyone31:50 - Effective Shoulder Training Techniques36:20 - Benefits of Hanging Exercises37:54 - Flossing for Mobility40:41 - Thanks and Closing Remarks

Unlock the power of Pain-Free Performance! In this episode, host Anthony Renna welcomes Dr. John Rusin, founder of the Pain-Free Performance Certification, for an in-depth discussion on the essential components of pain-free training and sustainable performance.Brought to you by Perform Better, experts in functional training and rehabilitation.Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.Highlights of the episode:- **Pain-Free Training Philosophy**: Dr. Rusin explains why reducing pain and improving movement quality are critical before pursuing fitness goals.- **The 6 Foundational Movement Patterns**: Squat, hinge, lunge, push, pull, and carry—learn how they form the backbone of efficient human movement and their role in building strength, mobility, and balance.- **6-Phase Warm-Up System**: A quick, effective warm-up strategy to maximize performance, reduce injury risk, and prepare for any workout in just 10-12 minutes.- **Breathing Techniques for Performance**: Discover six unique breathing methods, from rhythmic breathing to tactical breathwork, to enhance recovery, stability, and strength.- **Programming Insights**: Dr. Rusin shares his 6x6 Protocol, combining movement patterns and physical characteristics like power, strength, and mobility for a balanced and effective training plan.- **Practical Takeaways**: From addressing chronic pain points to optimizing your training for long-term health, this episode is packed with actionable advice for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike. We also chat about Dr. Rusin’s groundbreaking book, "Pain-Free Performance," featuring templates, QR-coded exercise demonstrations, and strategies to customize training for every individual.-Sumit Seth from Naamly discusses whether or not Structure really does equal freedom and how the concept can help free up time and help you work on what matters most, Building Relationships.  https://www.Naamly.comDon’t miss this opportunity to redefine your training strategy with proven systems and expert insights.Thanks for listening! Make sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more expert tips and strategies to master your movement and performance.CHAPTERS:1:00   - Intro04:14 - Maximizing the Member Experience with Sumit Seth of Naamly08:45 - Dr. John Rusin on his New Book16:16 - Overview of Pain-Free Performance21:53 - Key Pillars of Pain-Free Training27:15 - Breathing Techniques for Performance34:15 - 6-Phase Dynamic Warm-Up Explained40:46 - The 6 Foundational Movement Patterns42:58 - Pain-Free Performance Programming Strategies48:11 - Book Programs & Templates Overview51:21 - John's Final Thoughts52:05 - OutroWant to build a fitness business that creates more income, impact, and freedom?Here are some FREE biz-building resources from our friends at Business for Unicorns (https://businessforunicorns.com):**Get the Little Book of Gym Marketing Secrets HERE- (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/gym-marketing-book)**Book a free 10-minute intro call HERE (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/brainstorm)**Follow BFU on Instagram HERE (https://www.instagram.com/businessforunicorns/)**Subscribe to Mark Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)

Michael Boyle, a veteran strength and conditioning coach, shares invaluable tips on mastering Nordic exercises and avoiding common pitfalls. He discusses a step-by-step progression plan that emphasizes perfect posture and core engagement for optimal performance. Additionally, Boyle delves into deadlift techniques and unilateral hip lifts, highlighting their benefits for rehab. Mark Fisher, a fitness business coach, joins to reveal effective client retention strategies for gym owners, stressing the importance of personalized experiences to keep clients engaged.

Episode 421 of the Strength Coach Podcast is here! Host Anthony Renna and Mike Boyle dive into why strength coaches should *stop copying track coaches* and focus on what truly works for their unique needs. This insightful episode, brought to you by Perform Better, is packed with practical advice and expert discussions. A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.**Highlights of the Episode:**- Why copying track coaches might not work for strength training—time constraints and priorities explained.- A chat with Coach Mike Boyle discussing pogo jumps and their place (or lack thereof) in strength training programs.- Exploring single-leg exercises: how to program them effectively and avoid pairing mistakes.- Upper body power training alternatives: med ball work, plyo-bench press, and smarter strategies.- Special Business for Unicorns segment with Mark Fisher sharing time management tips to help coaches and gym owners tackle overwhelm.**What’s New and Noteworthy:**- Fresh insights on balancing jumps, sprints, and strength in limited workout times.  - A candid conversation on adapting training methods to avoid injuries while maximizing performance.  - Practical solutions for coaches seeking alternatives to med ball training or looking to optimize their programming.Whether you’re a seasoned coach, trainer, or fitness professional, this episode has actionable takeaways to elevate your approach. Thanks for listening to Episode 421—don’t miss out on these game-changing tips!———————————————————————————————Join Certified Functional Strength Coach and Business for Unicorns for a FREE webinar on Thurs Sept 18 at 4p ET:The Missing Piece: Consistently Excellent Training SessionsClaim Your Free Spot HERE- https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XwYLXLwXS6mja_XdoaPcUQ#/registration———————————————————————————————CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:27 - Business for Unicorns segment with Mark Fisher09:19 - Coach Boyle's Training Philosophy17:19 - Effective Exercise Pairing Techniques18:09 - Pairing the Big 3 Single Leg Exercises24:59 - Essential Coaching Cues for Trainers28:50 - Bench Press Alternatives Explained29:40 - Med Ball Bench Press Benefits33:10 - Mark Bell's Slingshot Overview

Welcome to Episode 420 of the Strength Coach Podcast! In this exciting chat and tour of grip training and rock climbing secrets, host Anthony Renna sits down with Collin McGee, fitness director at Alliance Fitness Center and a Camp 4 Human Performance rock climbing coach. Brought to you by PerformBetter.com, this episode reveals how grip strength training can revolutionize performance across all sports—not just rock climbing.A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.Highlights of the episode:  - **Rock Climbing Insights**: Collin explains how unique grip training techniques from rock climbing can improve overall strength and endurance for athletes in sports like football, baseball, and Jiu-Jitsu.  - **Grip Training Secrets**: Learn why traditional grip exercises (like deadlifts and pull-ups) may miss the mark and how to incorporate finger-intensive exercises and nuanced approaches.  - **Injury Prevention & Recovery**: We spoke about common tendon and ligament injuries, like tennis elbow, and explored strategies to build resilience and recover smarter.  - **The Science of Strength**: Discover how unique hand positions, overcoming and yielding isometrics, and progressive training can make a difference in performance on and off the wall.  - **Warm-Up Strategies**: Collin shares his go-to warm-up routines for grip, forearm, and shoulder activation, ensuring athletes are ready to tackle any challenge.Collin’s journey from collegiate baseball to rock climbing coaching and his emphasis on blending sport-specific training with general movement will leave you inspired to push your limits.Don’t miss this deep dive into grip strength training secrets and rock climbing techniques that can elevate every athlete’s game. Thanks for listening—be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below!———————————————————————————————Join Certified Functional Strength Coach and Business for Unicorns for a FREE webinar on Thurs Sept 18 at 4p ET:The Missing Piece: Consistently Excellent Training SessionsClaim Your Free Spot HERE- https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XwYLXLwXS6mja_XdoaPcUQ#/registration——————————————————————————————CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:17 - Sumit Seth on Getting Unstuck10:00 - Collin McGee interview14:57 - CFSC for Rock Climbers19:35 - Understanding Grip Training25:00 - Body Awareness in Grip Training28:36 - Injury Prevention Strategies31:16 - Fingers Off the Wall Technique36:20 - Overcoming vs Yielding Isometrics39:40 - Grip Training in Other Sports40:16 - Effective Grip Training Methods45:32 - Integrating Grip Training into Your Program50:18 - Lessons from Climbing Injuries58:03 - Tendon and Ligament Injury Healing1:03:42 - Proper Warm-Up Techniques1:08:13 - Closing

Welcome to Episode 419 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by Perform Better—the experts in functional training and rehabilitation!  **Highlights of the Episode:**- **Gym Culture as a Differentiator:** Pete Dupuis shares why a strong gym culture is your ultimate competitive advantage and how to create an experience that builds client loyalty.- **3 Actionable Tips for Success:** Learn how to codify what good looks like, craft a welcoming onboarding experience, and consistently reinforce positive cultural habits within your team.-**Manual Assessments- are they necessary and is it in our Scope of Practice (and what does that even mean)- **Foam Rolling & Massage Guns Debate:** Coach Boyle addresses the latest findings on their impact on performance and shares his take on this heated topic.- **Ground Reaction Forces:** Explore insightful data about jumping mechanics and how it can shape your training programs.- **Business Advice from Industry Leaders:** Gain valuable insights on managing gym operations and standing out in a competitive market.———————————————————————————————Join Certified Functional Strength Coach and Business for Unicorns for a FREE webinar on Thurs Sept 18 at 4p ET:The Missing Piece: Consistently Excellent Training SessionsClaim Your Free Spot HERE- https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XwYLXLwXS6mja_XdoaPcUQ#/registration———————————————————————————————Thanks for tuning in! A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.

Ken Vick, a performance and recovery coach with three decades of experience, dives into his innovative concept of "Shocks & Springs" and its role in plyometrics. He emphasizes the balance of eccentric forces and tissue resilience for optimal recovery and injury prevention. Ken discusses a unique framework for understanding stress, covering structural, energy, nervous system, and mindset factors. Listeners gain practical coaching tips for communicating effectively with athletes and discover tailored recovery techniques suitable for everyone, from elite athletes to older adults.

Should athletes train like bodybuilders? In this episode of the Strength Coach Podcast, we dive deep into this hot topic alongside industry expert Coach Mike Boyle. Episode 417 brings valuable insights into the differences between bodybuilding and athletic training, the science behind hypertrophy, and how training approaches impact performance and recovery.Highlights of the episode:- **Should athletes train like bodybuilders?  Coach Boyle shares his take on why traditional bodybuilding programs may not be ideal for athletes and the pitfalls of training solely for hypertrophy.- **Hypertrophy myths: Is there really a volume-to-size relationship for the average trainee, or is it more complex than simple set counts?- **Alternative training strategies: Discover effective, athlete-specific methods to build strength and power without compromising recovery.- **Forum debates: Listen in as Coach Boyle addresses controversial fitness tweets and forum discussions, including the relevance of psoas exercises for sprinting and the role of trap bar loaded jumps in strength programs.- **Practical tips:** Learn how to structure training sessions that balance performance, recovery, and injury prevention.Plus, don’t miss the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.  Mark Fisher goes over The Missing Piece- Consistently Excellent Training Sessions.———————————————————————————————Join Certified Functional Strength Coach and Business for Unicorns for a FREE webinar on Thurs Sept 18 at 4p ET:The Missing Piece: Consistently Excellent Training SessionsClaim Your Free Spot HERE———————————————————————————————Want to build a fitness business that creates more income, impact, and freedom?Here are some FREE biz-building resources from our friends at Business for Unicorns (https://businessforunicorns.com):**Get the Little Book of Gym Marketing Secrets HERE- (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/gym-marketing-book)**Book a free 10-minute intro call HERE (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/brainstorm)**Follow BFU on Instagram HERE (https://www.instagram.com/businessforunicorns/)**Subscribe to Mark Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing) -------------------------------------------------------------------A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.-------------------------------------------------------------------Get ready to rethink your approach to athlete training and gain actionable tips to elevate your coaching game. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe for more expert advice! CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro04:07 - Business for Unicorns11:08 - Missing Piece Webinar Info11:40 - Mike Boyle Interview12:28 - Athletes Training vs Bodybuilding24:47 - Training the Psoas Muscle32:54 - Loaded Jumps Post-Plyometrics35:10 - Contrast Sets with Trap Bar Deadlifts

In this insightful discussion, physical therapist and strength coach Bill Hartman shares his innovative Unified Health & Performance Continuum Model. Hartman delves into the fascinating world of helical structures and their profound impact on biomechanics and athletic performance. He offers practical insights on how foundational structure influences exercise selection and training outcomes. Listeners will learn about balancing force and velocity in programming and hear real-world case studies that illustrate the importance of body configurations in sports.

In Episode 415 of the Strength Coach Podcast, host Anthony Renna and Mike Boyle dive into the truth about ACL risks and why strength training is the ultimate solution. Stop blaming anatomy and start focusing on building resilience in athletes! Highlights of the episode- **ACL injury prevention: Coach Boyle shares why myths about female anatomy and hormones miss the mark and explains how strength training is key to reducing risks.  - **Single-leg squat standards: We spoke about performance benchmarks for youth athletes and why developing eccentric strength is crucial.  - **Elasticity training: Explore the differences between fast and slow elasticity and how they impact athletic performance.  - **Off-season training strategies: Should athletes focus on long slow distance or high-intensity conditioning? Hear Coach Boyle’s take on optimizing off-season programming.  Plus, don’t miss the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.  Pete Dupuis goes over Using a Testing Day as a Low Barrier Offer- how to move away from seasonal sessions.Want to build a fitness business that creates more income, impact, and freedom?Here are some FREE biz-building resources from our friends at Business for Unicorns (https://businessforunicorns.com):**Get the Little Book of Gym Marketing Secrets HERE- (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/gym-marketing-book)**Book a free 10-minute intro call HERE )https://go.businessforunicorns.com/brainstorm)**Follow BFU on Instagram HERE (https://www.instagram.com/businessforunicorns/)**Subscribe to Mark Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing) -------------------------------------------------------------------A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.-------------------------------------------------------------------This episode is packed with practical tips for coaches, trainers, and gym owners looking to up their game. Tune in now and learn how to fix ACL risks with strength while building a gym and life you love. Thanks for listening!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:45 - Pete Dupuis: Using a Testing Day as a Low Barrier Offer09:01 - Coaches Corner w/ Coach Boyle: Training Tips17:30 -  ACL Tears and Gender Myths20:15 -  1-Leg Squat Depth Guidance24:45 - 1 Leg Training Strength Goals by Age26:30 - Elastic Energy: Performance Benefits34:33 - Long Slow Distance: Endurance Training for Off Season39:42 - Outro