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
Dec 1, 2025 • 57min
Agile Periodization, Badger Protocol, & Endurance For MMA w/ Mladen Jovanovic (SSOF Ep 172)
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-shortsMladen Jovanovic discusses his recent projects, including writing books and developing the Agile Periodization School. He explains the concept of Agile Periodization, its application in strength and conditioning, and how it can be adapted for combat sports. Mladen also introduces the Badger Protocol, a training method designed to enhance performance while minimizing injury risk. The discussion emphasizes the importance of flexibility in training, the balance between specific and non-specific conditioning, and the need for coaches to adapt to athletes' individual needs.Timestamps0:00 Mladen's Current Projects and Focus01:58 Writing and Publishing Books08:32 Introduction to Agile Periodization17:29 Agile Periodization in Strength and Conditioning28:06 The Importance of Structure in Coaching29:02 Conditioning and Agile Periodization35:12 Substance vs. Form in Training41:02 Understanding the Badger Protocol48:55 Philosophy of Conditioning in Combat SportsMladen's IG: https://www.instagram.com/physical_prep/
Nov 24, 2025 • 45min
Q&A: Power Training Transfer, Jumps vs. Olympic Lifts, & Gassing Out After 3 Rounds
Black Friday Deal (Code BLACK30 for 30% OFF Annual Membership. Or BLACK1 for $1 first month): https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground-training-app/Conditioning Mentorship Waitlist: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/coach-conditioning-mentorship-program/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/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-shorts
Nov 17, 2025 • 1h 4min
Distorting Game Speed, Rhythm & Coordination w/ Vern Gambetta (SSOF Ep 170)
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-shortsVern Gambetta discusses the evolving landscape of coaching, emphasizing the distinction between influencers and experts. He critiques the current generation of coaches for their lack of practical experience and reliance on sports science without understanding its application.Gambetta shares insights on load management, the importance of communication with athletes, and the effectiveness of the lunge matrix as a warm-up routine. He highlights the significance of rhythm and timing in training, the concept of distorting game speed for performance enhancement, and the limitations of traditional deceleration training. The discussion also touches on injury prevention techniques and the future of coaching methodologies, concluding with Gambetta's upcoming projects and resources for coaches.Timestamps0:00 The Influence of Generational Coaching02:41 The Role of Sports Science in Coaching06:05 Understanding Athlete Communication and Load Management08:46 The Importance of Movement and Rhythm in Training12:58 Exploring the Lunge Matrix and Its Applications15:50 Rhythm, Tempo, and Coordination in Athletic Performance18:36 The Debate on Injury Prevention and Muscle Training21:52 Game Speed and Distortion in Training33:46 Understanding Game Speed vs. Sprint Speed36:57 Creative Approaches to Training Agility39:36 Distorting Game Scenarios for Better Performance42:40 The Role of Deceleration in Sports Training45:50 Exploring Alternative Squat Techniques48:50 Insights from the New Book on Athletic Development51:32 Speed Development Techniques in Training54:53 The Importance of Deceleration and Change of Direction57:38 Final Thoughts and Future PlansVern's New Book: https://www.hmmrmedia.com/store/books/building-the-complete-athlete/Vern's IG: https://www.instagram.com/gstscoach/
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 6min
How Strong Is Strong Enough w/ Dane Miller @GarageStrength (SSOF Ep 169)
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-shortsJames and Dane Miller discuss various aspects of coaching, particularly in weightlifting and sports performance. They explore the importance of constraints-led training, the role of maximal strength, and the significance of explosiveness in athletes. They also delve into training strategies for fighters and wrestlers, and the impact of weight cutting.The discussion emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to training that considers the unique demands of each sport and athlete.Timestamps0:00 Coaching at Nationals: A Memorable Experience00:24 Exploring Training Techniques and Influences03:11 The Constraints-Led Approach in Training06:17 Balancing Strength and Speed in Athletic Training09:13 Performance Thresholds and Their Impact12:27 The Role of Maximal Strength in Athletic Performance16:08 Understanding Biomechanics and Training Models19:20 Measuring Performance: Speed, Strength, and Endurance28:39 Explosive Measurements in Sports Performance29:08 World Championships and Athlete Performance30:03 Strength and Transfer in Throwing Events31:20 Resisted Tests and Speed Correlation33:16 Velocity-Based Training and Its Applications37:11 Weightlifting Derivatives: Pros and Cons44:03 Alternative Movements for Limited Mobility48:45 Loaded Jumps and Their Usage50:36 Structuring Training for Fighters56:11 Managing Wrestling Seasons and Weight CutsDane's IG: https://www.instagram.com/garagestrength/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZEEC1w4jP1cV2dibuDFwIQWebsite: https://www.garagestrength.com/
Nov 3, 2025 • 58min
Backwards Running, Eccentric Cycling, & Wearable Resistance w/ Aaron Uthoff (SSOF Ep 168)
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-shortsJames and Aaron Uthoff delve into the innovative training methods of backwards running and wearable resistance. They explore the scientific basis behind these techniques, their applications in various sports, particularly combat sports, and the physiological adaptations that result from their use. Aaron shares insights from his research, discussing how these methods can enhance athletic performance, improve muscle activation, and increase striking power. The conversation also touches on the importance of training variety and the potential for these methods to be integrated into athletes' training regimens for optimal results.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Overview of Research01:21 Exploring Backwards Running: Origins and Benefits05:12 Application of Backwards Running in Sports10:05 Training Techniques and Implementation17:06 Comparative Outcomes: Backwards vs. Forward Running20:15 Long-term Adaptations and Future Directions25:55 Eccentric Training and Its Applications29:26 Innovative Eccentric Cycling Techniques33:35 Exploring Wearable Resistance Technology37:32 The Science Behind Wearable Resistance43:27 Physiological Benefits of Wearable Resistance48:26 Applications in Combat Sports TrainingAaron's IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.aaronuthoff/aaron.uthoff@aut.ac.nz
Oct 27, 2025 • 1h
Science Behind Terence Crawford's Transformation & How To Move Up A Weight Class w/ Gavin Pratt (SSOF Ep 167)
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/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-shortsGavin Pratt discusses various aspects of training for combat sports, particularly focusing on transitioning between weight classes, hypertrophy training, and innovative methods to optimize performance. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs of athletes in combat sports and how to effectively integrate different training modalities to enhance strength, endurance, and overall performance. The discussion also touches on neck training, breath training, and the psychological aspects of preparing athletes for competition.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Background on Combat Sports Training02:36 Hypertrophy Training for Combat Athletes05:03 Innovative Training Techniques and Methodologies08:07 Balancing Strength and Endurance in Training11:58 The Role of Isometrics in Hypertrophy14:47 Practical Applications and Case Studies17:53 Managing Soreness and Recovery in Training20:52 Considerations for Weight Class Changes23:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts31:50 The Power of Bodyweight Training32:59 Exploring Neck Training in Combat Sports35:08 Understanding Neck Strength Ratios37:44 Innovative Approaches to Neck Training39:46 Dynamic Strength and Reactive Training for the Neck42:09 Eccentric Overload and Its Applications49:30 Breath Training: Enhancing Performance Through Breathing TechniquesGavins IG: https://www.instagram.com/gav_pratt/
Oct 20, 2025 • 35min
Sprint Intervals & Activation Relaxation Q&A (SSOF Ep 166)
1-on-1 Coaching: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/personalized-coaching/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/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-shorts
Oct 13, 2025 • 1h 6min
Foot Training and Where Warm-Ups & Cool Downs Go Wrong w/ Joel Smith Part 2 (SSOF Ep 165)
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/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-shortsJoel Smith and James discuss the evolving landscape of strength and conditioning in athletic performance. They explore the importance of training the feet, the role of reactive training, and the debate between specific and general strength training. The conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to athletic training, integrating various modalities and fostering engagement to enhance performance outcomes. They also touch on the significance of rotational training for sports and the value of boredom tolerance in training.Timestamps0:00 The Evolution of Strength and Conditioning02:43 The Importance of Foot Training05:41 Reflexes and Athletic Performance08:43 Training Dynamics and Session Structure12:32 The Role of Recovery and Adaptation15:48 The Impact of Game Context on Performance33:18 The Importance of Warm-Up and Cool Down40:33 Integrating Speed and Strength Training45:11 General vs. Specific Strength Training58:37 The Role of Rotation in Athletic PerformanceJoel's IG: https://www.instagram.com/justflysportsWebsite: https://www.just-fly-sports.com/
Oct 6, 2025 • 1h 2min
The Greatest Training Book Ever Written & How Strong Is Strong Enough w/ Joel Smith (SSOF Ep 164)
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/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-shortsJoel Smith discusses the complexities of sports training, focusing on DB Hammer's book and its high-velocity training methodologies. He critiques the jargon-heavy nature of the book and emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying principles of training rather than getting lost in technicalities. The discussion also covers the relevance of traditional lifting, the role of isometrics, and the significance of play and rhythm in athletic development. Smith advocates for Zercher squats as a beneficial alternative to traditional lifts, highlighting their advantages for athletes.Timestamps0:00 Introduction to DB Hammer's Training Philosophy02:38 Understanding the Jargon in Sports Training05:25 The Concept of Drop-Offs in Training08:22 Maximal Strength Development in Athletic Training11:32 The Role of Isometrics in Athletic Performance15:24 Traditional Lifting vs. Alternative Methods18:12 The Importance of Variety in Training21:22 Oscillatory Isometrics and Their Application24:26 Shaking and Body Activation Techniques31:29 Embracing Animalistic Movement34:46 The Inhibition Dilemma in Strength Training36:40 The Intersection of Strength and Skill39:42 Transcending Traditional Weightlifting44:53 Finding Balance in Athletic Training57:41 Zercher Squats: A New Perspective on Strength TrainingJoel's IG: https://www.instagram.com/justflysportsWebsite: https://www.just-fly-sports.com/
Sep 29, 2025 • 59min
Inside The Preparation Of Elite Amateur Boxers w/ Chris Gallagher (SSOF Ep 163)
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/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-shortsChris Gallagher shares his extensive experience in strength and conditioning, particularly in the context of Indian amateur boxing and his current role in track and field. He discusses the challenges and insights gained from working with athletes from diverse backgrounds, the evolution of training practices, and the importance of athlete autonomy in coaching. Gallagher emphasizes the need for modern strength and conditioning practices in boxing and the impact of cultural differences on coaching dynamics.Timestamps0:00 Introduction to Chris Gallagher and His Background02:06 Insights into Indian Amateur Boxing04:48 Role and Responsibilities in Indian Boxing07:52 Physical Development in Amateur Boxers11:27 Strength and Conditioning Planning14:43 Conditioning Strategies and Techniques17:12 Testing and Monitoring in Training20:16 Innovative Approaches to Conditioning23:03 Conclusion and Future Directions30:17 Explosive Power in Boxing Training38:13 Selection Policies in Combat Sports40:23 Cross-Sport Training Insights44:24 Differences in Training Approaches52:26 Athlete Autonomy and Coaching DynamicsChris IG: https://www.instagram.com/coach_chris.g
