Sweet Science Of Fighting Podcast
Sweet Science of Fighting
Sweet Science of Fighting interviews leading strength & conditioning coaches to provide you with the latest methods for enhancing your fight performance.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 4, 2026 • 37min
NEW Isometric Research Explained & Q&A w/ James de Lacey (SSOF Ep 205)
Boxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/training-appTrifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsJames explores the latest research on isometric training, comparing push versus hold methods, and discusses practical applications for strength and speed development. He also answers audience questions on conditioning, programming, and training techniques.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and upcoming guests03:55 Research overview: isometric training studies08:40 Push vs hold isometric effects on strength and size16:34 Comparison of eccentric quasi-isometric and dynamic training25:14 Practical applications and training tips33:16 Q&A on conditioning and training strategieshttps://jamesdelacey.com
Sep 14, 2026 • 1h 1min
Contact Drills + The Current State Of MMA & Rehab w/ Chris Miah (SSOF Ep 203)
Boxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/training-appTrifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsChris shares insights on the challenges of balancing multiple coaching disciplines, the current landscape of combat sports, and innovative approaches to injury rehab and conditioning. This episode offers valuable perspectives for coaches, athletes, and sports enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of training, injury management, and sport development.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Chris's coaching background02:23 Balancing multiple coaching disciplines and burnout04:36 The landscape of combat sports and societal pressures08:29 Influence of social media and modern fight culture12:34 The evolution of MMA and fight card saturation20:55 Rehab and return to sport in combat sports25:14 ACL rehab and progressive loading strategies35:33 Grappling principles in rugby and contact sports40:10 Contact drills and ecological dynamics in training45:59 Conditioning strategies for rugby and MMA54:55 The importance of athlete preparation and training demands01:00:00 Where to follow Chris and future content plansChris' IG: https://www.instagram.com/chrismiahcoaching/
Sep 7, 2026 • 1h 6min
Stop Guessing Your Work:Rest Ratio's For Conditioning w/ Skyler Smutek (SSOF Ep 203)
Boxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsSkyler Smutek shares his journey from hockey player to using innovative training technology like Moy to enhance athletic performance. Discover how data-driven training can transform athlete recovery, intensity management, and overall performance.Timestamps0:00 Skyler's Journey in Hockey and Training05:54 Understanding Moxie Monitors and Their Applications09:01 Training Protocols and Recovery Strategies11:56 Data-Driven Training Decisions15:02 Adapting Training for Individual Athletes18:08 Physiological Adaptations in Hockey Training21:12 Sprint Regimens and Conditioning Strategies29:54 Understanding Work to Rest Ratios32:48 The Role of Moxie in Conditioning36:41 The Importance of Recovery in Training40:49 Mental Training and Its Impact on Performance46:15 The Influence of Asymmetries in Training01:01:21 Upper vs Lower Body Conditioning in HockeySkyler's IG: https://www.instagram.com/smutek14/
Aug 31, 2026 • 1h 8min
Decoding Olympic Weightlifting Biomechanics w/ Kristof Kipp (SSOF Ep 201)
Conditioning Mentorship & Research Community: https://sportandresearch.com/esdBoxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsKristof shares insights into biomechanical testing in weightlifting, force plate analysis, and how data-driven approaches can enhance training and performance. Discover how advanced biomechanics are shaping the future of weightlifting and sports science.Timestamps0:00 Introduction to Kristof's Biomechanical Work in Weightlifting02:14 Overview of Force Plate Testing and Data Collection03:58 Force Plate Analysis at World Championships and Training Camps05:32 Understanding What Biomechanical Data Reveals in Lifting08:03 Using Vertical Jump and Capacity Testing for Performance Insights09:59 Analyzing Pulling Styles and Their Impact on Performance11:52 Technical Variations and Their Biomechanical Signatures14:14 Coach and Athlete Use of Biomechanical Data16:11 Training Implications of Different Pulling Styles17:57 Force Time Profiles and Their Significance19:59The Role of Force Vectors and Ground Reaction Forces22:08 Force Velocity Profiling and Its Application in Training24:10 Understanding Weightlifting Profiles and Training Strategies25:54 Insights into Olivia Reeves' Exceptional Performance28:06 Neural and Mechanical Factors in Elite Lifting30:00 Training Recommendations Based on Biomechanical Data31:49 Future Directions in Sports Biomechanics33:49 Closing Remarks and Follow-up ResourcesKristof's IG: https://www.instagram.com/kristof.kipp/
Aug 24, 2026 • 53min
VO2max Isn't Everything + Q&A w/ Alec Blenis (SSOF Ep 200)
Conditioning Mentorship & Research Community: https://sportandresearch.com/esdBoxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsAlec Blenis shares his comprehensive approach to conditioning across various sports, emphasizing the importance of layered training support, physiological insights, and practical strategies for athletes. This episode explores how to optimize conditioning without sacrificing strength or performance.Timestamps0:00 Introduction to Alec Blenis and his coaching philosophy02:23 The layered support framework for conditioning05:38 Applying general to specific training in sports11:37 Base building and sport-specific conditioning12:18 Balancing conditioning with strength training16:25 Physiology of VO2 max and its relevance21:00 Misconceptions about VO2 max and energy systems26:38 Time-efficient conditioning for combat athletes36:57 Max effort conditioning and sprint training44:20 High-intensity training zones and effort measurement47:27 Managing burnout and maintaining motivation52:23 Resources and where to follow Alec BlenisAlec's IG: https://www.instagram.com/alecblenis/
Aug 10, 2026 • 57min
36 Random Thoughts & Musings For My 36th Birthday
Conditioning Mentorship: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/esd-2-0-mentorshipBoxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsTimestamps0:00 Introduction and Upcoming Guests02:27 Supporting Your Coaching Career with Side Income04:55 Reflections on Turning 36 and Career Musings09:19 The Non-Linear Path of a Coaching Career13:16 Working for Free and Building Connections17:38 Language, Culture, and International Coaching18:35 Opportunities and Freedom in Coaching Roles19:33 The Power of Reading, Writing, and Experimenting41:18 The Role of Games and Play in Training45:58 Training Methodologies and Energy Systems52:22 Training for Adaptation and Performance Gains55:04 Leveraging Expert Knowledge and Resources
Aug 3, 2026 • 1h 9min
Complete Tactical Periodization Guide & How To Apply It Effectively w/ David Tenney (SSOF Ep 198)
Conditioning Mentorship & Research Community: https://sportandresearch.com/esdBoxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsDavid Tenney shares his extensive experience with tactical periodization, exploring its principles, application in soccer, and how it integrates physical, emotional, and cognitive training for optimal performance.Timestamps0:00 Introduction to David Tenney's Background00:08 What is Tactical Periodization?04:01 Misunderstandings and Core Principles of Tactical Periodization10:03 Weekly Training Structure and Session Planning12:01 Managing Load and Emotional State Before Matches15:16 Pre-Game Day Strategies and Unloading17:53 Training in Off-Season and Pre-Season Contexts23:33 Adapting Training During Off-Season28:56 Creating Game-Like Environments in Training34:42 Specificity in Training and Player Position Needs42:28 Integrating Strength and Conditioning with Tactical Periodization45:48 Player Freedom and Individualization in Training58:36 Insights from NBA Experience on Individual vs. Collective Focus01:07:51 Where to Follow David Tenney and Final ThoughtsDavid's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-tenney-phd-39491316/
Jul 20, 2026 • 1h 10min
Addressing The Conditioning Controversy (NIRS deep dive) w/ Dr Andrew Usher
Conditioning Mentorship & Research Community: https://sportandresearch.com/esdBoxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsAndrew Usher discusses the latest developments in NIRS technology, its applications in sports science, and how to effectively incorporate it into training programs for optimal performance.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:24 Andrew Usher on the Evolution of NIRS02:37 Research and Practical Applications of NIRS04:34 Current Research and Future Directions in NIRS06:54 Building a Training Program with NIRS Insights12:36 Desaturation and Recovery in Athletic Performance18:56 Muscle Oxygen Fluctuations and Physiological Implications24:34 Programming Sprints and Conditioning for Athletes36:56 Muscle Physiology, Calcium Handling, and Adaptations43:50 Team Sports and Individualized Conditioning Strategies56:58 Future of Mitochondrial Testing and Research01:02:49 Summary and Final ThoughtsAndrew's IG: https://www.instagram.com/theandrewusher/
Jul 13, 2026 • 49min
Conjugate For Fighters & Track & Field Training Secrets w/ Colton Razo (SSOF Ep 196)
Conditioning Mentorship & Research Community: https://sportandresearch.com/forms/esd-2-0-waitlistBoxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsColton Razo shares his insights on strength training, Olympic lifts, conjugate system, and training periodization for track and field athletes, with practical applications for coaches and athletes.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and background of Colton Razo07:53 Training philosophy and global perspective11:25 Overview of the conjugate system12:52 Exercise selection for max effort, dynamic effort, and repetition effort16:00 Modulating training based on athlete needs and goals18:11 Training structure and weekly planning22:09 Use of advanced training protocols and tools26:26 Metrics for athlete development and injury prevention33:30 Seasonal training adjustments and competition planning37:39 Performance trends during the season44:39 Use of force plates and performance testing48:17 Where to follow Colton Razo and closing remarksColton's IG: https://www.instagram.com/razo_strength/
Jun 29, 2026 • 1h 3min
You Didn't Know This About Conditioning For Fighters w/ James Langford (SSOF Ep 195)
Conditioning Mentorship & Research Community: https://sportandresearch.com/forms/esd-2-0-waitlistBoxing S&C Blueprint: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/boxing-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/MMA S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/mma-strength-conditioning-blueprint/BJJ S&C Blueprint:https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/bjj-strength-and-conditioning-blueprint/SSOF App & Community: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Trifecta Nutrition: https://trifectanutrition.llbyf9.net/3JoV0k (Code "liftbig40" for 40% off)SSOF Rash Guard & Shorts Discount - Code "SWEETSCIENCE"https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/sweet-science-rash-guardSSOF Taniwha Rashies & Shorts - Code "SWEETSCIENCE" https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-rash-guardhttps://sweetscienceoffighting.com/taniwha-shortsJames Langford discusses his experiences in training professional MMA fighters and boxers, focusing on the challenges of funding in British wrestling, the importance of strength and conditioning, and the use of NERS devices for conditioning insights. He emphasizes the distinction between central and peripheral limitations in athletes and shares strategies for adapting training based on testing data. The conversation also touches on the psychological aspects of high-intensity training and the need for a shift in mindset among athletes regarding their conditioning methods.Timestamps0:00 Introduction to Training Dynamics03:02 Funding Challenges in British Wrestling06:07 The Importance of Strength and Conditioning09:00 Utilizing NIRS for Conditioning Insights12:10 Understanding Central vs Peripheral Limitations14:57 Conditioning Strategies for Professional Fighters18:06 Adapting Training Based on Testing Data21:03 Psychological Factors in High-Intensity Training32:21 Psychological Fatigue in High-Intensity Training34:16 Timing and Implementation of Sprint Intervals37:19 Adjusting Training for Individual Athlete Needs40:23 Interval Training Strategies for Different Phases43:52 Balancing Volume and Intensity in Conditioning48:02 Exploring Energy Systems and Conditioning Approaches53:37 Testing and Monitoring Athletic PerformanceJames IG: https://www.instagram.com/jlperformancecoach/
