The Strength Coach Podcast

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

In Episode 414 of the Strength Coach Podcast, host Anthony Renna dives into the topic of “Moving the Needle with the Average Joe” with special guest Coach Mike Boyle. This episode, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, is packed with actionable insights and real-world advice for coaches, trainers, and fitness enthusiasts.Highlights of the episode:  - A candid chat with Coach Boyle about the long-term effects of heavy lifting and the lessons learned over decades in the fitness industry.  - A discussion on training the general population, focusing on the 50+ age group and the challenges they face.  - Exclusive insights from Coach Boyle's recent experience on the Peter Attia podcast, addressing longevity and practical fitness programming.  - Key highlights from the Perform Better Summits, including exciting new speakers, networking opportunities, and creative challenges like the air bike score contest.  - Coach Boyle’s reaction to the Western Hockey League commissioner’s controversial comments on hockey training and player development.  We also spoke about the importance of meeting clients where they are, understanding age-related physical changes, and the evolving perspective on what "challenging" training really means. Plus, don’t miss the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.  Mark goes over The Only Numbers You Need to Know- tips on tracking the essential numbers for fitness business success.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'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.-------------------------------------------------------------------Thanks for listening! Tune in now to gain valuable takeaways and practical strategies to elevate your coaching game.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro4:06 - Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Power Play4:25- The Only Numbers You Need to Know For Your Gym8:30-   Mike Boyle Interview9:30-   Mike’s Peter Attia experience18:05 - Mike’s Perform Better Talk Highlights20:20 - Age and Recovery Impact22:10 - Age-Related Decline Explained24:35 - Decline Exponentially Increases with Age26:35 - Recovery Decline After 5029:28 - NCAA vs Major Junior vs College Hockey Comparison

In episode 413 of the Strength Coach Podcast, we chat with Jess Tollman, head of adult programming at MBSC, to uncover "The Key to Successful Adult Fitness Programming”Brought to you by PerformBetter.com, this episode is packed with insights for coaches, therapists, and fitness enthusiasts looking to take their skills to the next level. **Highlights of the Episode**- We spoke about the fundamental differences between adult and athlete fitness programming, focusing on risk vs. reward calibration.- Jess shares her “recipe” for successful adult fitness, emphasizing mobility, strength, power, and conditioning while addressing common challenges like previous injuries and chronic pain.- A deep dive into the progression and regression system: how to tailor exercises for diverse client needs within a group setting.- Strategies for maintaining variety without sacrificing consistency, ensuring clients stay engaged and make measurable progress.- The importance of coaching individuals within a group, creating a personalized experience even in a shared environment.- Practical tips on fostering retention, tracking progress, and meeting adults where they are to build long-term fitness habits.- Jess’s unique perspective as both a mental health counselor and strength coach, incorporating mindfulness and observation into coaching.We also discussed:- Coaching philosophies for adult clients and how MBSC balances elite athletic training with a growing adult population.- How to keep fitness engaging and sustainable year-round for adult clients.- The role of continuing education and communication in building a successful fitness business.-------------------------------------------------------------------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.-------------------------------------------------------------------Get ready to learn practical, actionable strategies to enhance your approach to adult programming. Whether you’re a coach, trainer, or just someone passionate about fitness, this episode delivers valuable takeaways.Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to check out more episodes for expert advice and inspiration.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:42 - Jess Tollman Interview05:48 - Successful Adult Programming Strategies08:51 - Risk vs Reward Calibration13:41 - Coaching Individuals in Group Settings17:10 - Tracking Progress Effectively21:20 - Variation in Training Methods27:10 - Importance of Tracking Progress33:20 - Mental Health Counseling Impact on Coaching39:34 - Get Back Into It Workout Tips40:40 - Consistent Coaching Message43:38 - Workout Intensity Guidelines46:10 - Selling Quality of Life Benefits50:34 - Her Journey to Current Position53:17 - Entry into the Industry55:20 - Client-Centered Focus57:50 - Being Present in Coaching01:01:44 - Acknowledging Mistakes01:03:40 - Wrapping Up Discussion-------------------------------------------------------------------Next episode will feature the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.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's channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)-------------------------------------------------------------------

Episode 412 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by Perform Better, dives into the hot topic of "Injury Prevention vs. Reduction" Host Anthony Renna chats with Coach Boyle to break down this often-misunderstood debate.**Highlights of the Episode:**- A thorough discussion on why injuries can’t always be prevented but can potentially be reduced.- Insights into the recent Tyrese Haliburton Achilles injury and its complex contributing factors.- The role of training, load management, and mileage in injury risk for athletes.- Coach Boyle’s personal experiences coaching athletes through injuries and reframing responsibility.- A candid talk about steroid use among middle and high school athletes, and how the fitness industry can address it.- Exploring conditioning standards and the importance of fairness with weight-class-based programming.- The debate over focusing on athlete strengths vs. weaknesses and how to balance training for optimal performance.**Unique Elements:**Coach Boyle shares invaluable anecdotes and practical advice, offering a fresh perspective on training philosophies. -------------------------------------------------------------------This episode also introduces a new segment, the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.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's channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)-------------------------------------------------------------------Don’t miss this episode filled with expert insights, real-world examples, and actionable advice for athletes, coaches, and fitness professionals. Watch now and join the conversation! Thanks for listening!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:52 - Conditioning for Weight Classes02:04 - Training Weaknesses vs Strengths02:16 - Fitness Business Strategies03:15 - Perform Better Techniques05:03 - Overlooked Assets in Fitness Businesses10:42 - Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay11:12 - Tyrese Halliburton- Injury Prevention vs. Injury Reduction19:19 - Level Up Your Training24:00 - Steroid Use in Youth Sports25:55 - Drug Use in Sports31:05 - Conditioning Tests Explained43:26 - Strengths vs Weaknesses in Programming-------------------------------------------------------------------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.------------------------------------------------------------------