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 26, 2026 • 59min
The Perfect MMA Training Schedule & Using Wearable Resistance For Conditioning w/ Brandon Morgan (SSOF Ep 207)
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)Strength and conditioning coach Brandon Morgan joins James to explain how he organizes MMA training, primes fighters for power, and uses objective feedback and constraints-led practice. The conversation connects fight-week readiness, sport-specific conditioning, sparring preparation, and practical tools such as punch trackers, weighted sleeves, and stroboscopic glasses.Timestamps0:00 Punch-speed tracking and the fight-week power question04:00 Brandon Morgan’s path into MMA strength coaching08:39 Reading gym workload and stacking hard training days13:18 A sample weekly plan: boxing, recovery, and conditioning19:00 Protect sparring and rehearse the fight-night routine22:27 When heavy lifts and jumps make sense for MMA25:01 Warm-ups, competition timing, and session fueling29:12 Weighted sleeves and measurable punch-speed work37:04 Constraints-led practice with strobe glasses, bags, and grappling44:04 Why skill sessions should do much of the conditioning49:11 Reflexive trimetric training explained57:31 Where to find Brandon MorganBrandon's IG: https://www.instagram.com/bmofit4life/https://bmofit4life.com/
Oct 19, 2026 • 1h 48min
You've Been Doing Triphasic Training WRONG w/ Cal Dietz (SSOF Ep 206)
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)Cal discusses advanced training methods including triphasic training, isometric and eccentric phases, gait-oriented exercises, and innovative neuromuscular techniques to optimize athletic performance and injury prevention. Cal Dietz shares his innovative training methods, including the GOAT drill, water bag stability, and the impact of eye positioning and neural control on athletic performance. Discover how these techniques can enhance speed, strength, and injury prevention across various sports.Timestamps0:00 Isometric Training Insights11:58 Floating Heel and Spring Ankle20:00 Oscillatory Isometric Training23:46 Eccentric Training and Performance29:51 In-Season Training Adjustments34:24 The Importance of the Big Toe in Athletic Performance39:29 Spring Ankle Training Explained43:39 Questioning Traditional Strength Training Methods51:33 Nordic Hamstring Exercises: Pros and Cons56:23 The Goat Drill: Enhancing Neuromuscular Coordination59:04 The Importance of Coordination in Athletic Training01:01:15 Implementing the GOAT Drill for Enhanced Performance01:03:39 Understanding Muscle Activation and Brain Function01:05:36 Exploring the Role of Eye Position in Movement01:09:54 The Water Bag Run: A Unique Training Method01:12:43 Dynamic Responses to Injury and Recovery01:15:39 The Impact of Concussions on Muscle Function01:18:40 Training the Fascial Slings for Optimal Performance01:24:55 Integrating Conditioning into Strength Training01:24:56 High Volume Conditioning Programs01:25:24 Selenioff Protocols and Interval Training01:26:49 High-Low Oxygen Training Techniques01:28:00 Work Capacity and Recovery in Training01:30:00 Isometrics and Vascular Benefits01:31:50 High Intensity Training and Athletic Performance01:33:55 Mitochondrial Density and Recovery01:35:12 Fiber Specific Density Training01:37:41 Strength Training vs. Athletic Performance01:39:24 Building Athletic Capacity in Youth01:41:02 The Mentality of High Performance01:44:53 Isometrics in Skill TrainingCal's IG: https://www.instagram.com/triphasic_training/https://triphasictraining.com/[email protected]
Oct 12, 2026 • 1h 18min
Legendary Weightlifting Coach Shares The 2 BEST Exercises For Knockout Power w/ Tim Swords (SSOF Ep 206)
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-shortsTim Swords shares his extensive experience in Olympic weightlifting, coaching techniques, athlete development, and insights into training for contact sports. Discover practical tips, mental models, and stories from a coach with over four decades of success.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Tim Swords' Background01:52 Differentiating Training for Various Athletes08:53 Technical Mistakes and Fixes in Weightlifting14:57 Supporting Shoulder and Back Strength22:01 Training for Contact Sports vs Olympic Lifting29:54 Building Confidence and Discipline40:04 Stories of Athlete Success and Human Development59:58 Controversial Views on Zercher Squats and Training Positions01:10:04 Tim Swords' Coaching Philosophy and LegacyTim's FB: https://www.facebook.com/timothy.swords.18/
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/
