The Reactive Training Systems Podcast

In this episode of the RTS Podcast, Coach Mike and Coach Mel talk with Thomas Lilly, founder of Zero Weakness Gyms. Known for coaching elite lifter Colton Engelbrecht, Thomas shares his approach to technique, programming, and frequency in powerlifting. They dive into biomechanical rules, RPE, velocity-based training, and more. 

What can 20 years of powerlifting still teach you? In this episode, Coach Mike reflects on lessons from competing at the Nationals, sharing insights on competition prep, travel challenges, weight cuts, and evolving training strategies, especially for deadlifts.

Coach Mike and Mel sit down with 2025 Sheffield champion Kjell Bakkelund. They dive into the art of coaching, building strong coach-athlete relationships, and making smart training decisions. Kjell also shares valuable insights from his powerlifting journey. Whether you're an athlete or coach, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. Don’t miss it!

In this episode, we dive into the art of self-coaching in powerlifting with Ade Omisakin. We talk tracking progress, spotting trends, and using tools like velocity-based training to make smarter decisions in the gym.

Coach Mike, John and our newest RTS Coach Andrew discuss gym safety, managing fatigue, and the differences between dynamic and static RPE systems. They share practical experiences and strategies for improving strength training outcomes across all levels.

This conversation explores powerlifting, focusing on the recent Sheffield competition, coaching strategies, and competition challenges. Kedric Kwan discusses the role of judges, grip strength, and the balance between technical execution and psychology in performance. Coach Mike, Mel and Kedric highlight the importance of communication, flexibility in training, and the need for both discipline and adaptability in coaching. They also touch on philosophical aspects, emphasizing enjoyment, epistemic humility, and applying the scientific method to training.

Mike and Gaby are joined by Kelly Mann, fresh from coaching at Sheffield, to discuss her experience as the first female coach at the event. They cover the challenges and environment of coaching at such a high level, particularly focusing on Meg Scanlon, and her remarkable performance. They also delve into coaching insights, including managing workflow, boundaries, and personal growth, and the effects of external factors on training outcomes.

The excitement about Sheffield 2025 is still high. Coach Mike, Peter and Gaby reflect on the competition and strategy of the attempt selection for Thai lifter Kasemsand Senumong (also known as Opor).

In this episode, Mike and Ross discuss various techniques and mental strategies in powerlifting training, diving into the importance of intentional training and mental preparation. Ross shares personal stories and experiences from his powerlifting career, including his recent world championship victory. The conversation touches on diverse training approaches, decision-making in training, handling setbacks, and the importance of internal vs external motivation.

To share the excitement about Sheffield this year, coach Mike and Mel sit down with Kasemsand Senumong, also known as Opor Kasem, the current 66kg world champion. Opor shares his training approach leading up to the competition, talks about his powerlifting journey since joining RTS and explains his mindset towards Sheffield.