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
May 26, 2025 • 36min
Conditioning Case Study, How Much You Actually Need To Lift & Air Bike Limitations (SSOF Ep 148)
Conditioning Mentorship Info: https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/coach-conditioning-mentorship-program/Conditioning Mentorship: https://performance.education/esd/Free 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-shortsTimestamps00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Mentorship Program04:33 Case Study: Sprint Conditioning for Jujitsu14:44 Strength Training Perspectives in Combat Sports17:20 Insights from Sprint Cycling Research28:41 Application of Training Insights to Combat Sports
May 12, 2025 • 46min
Calcium Sensitivity For Conditioning & Whole Body Vibration w/ Dr. John Babraj (SSOF Ep 147)
Conditioning Mentorship: https://performance.education/esd/Free 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-shortsIn this conversation, Dr. John Babraj discusses various aspects of exercise physiology, focusing on sprint training, the role of isometric holds, vibration training, and the importance of calcium sensitivity in muscle function. He emphasizes the benefits of sprint interval training for enhancing performance and discusses the significance of heat acclimation in preparing athletes for competition in hot environments. Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Sprint Training and Exercise Physiology02:26 The Role of Isometric Holds and Vibration Training15:08 Understanding Calcium Sensitivity in Muscle Function26:56 Calcium's Role in Muscle Function28:22 Improving Muscle Efficiency through Training30:43 Calcium Sensitivity and Muscle Specificity32:00 Speed and Power in Sprinting34:24 Heat Acclimation and Performance39:25 Balancing Power Outputs in Heat42:27 Hill Sprinting ProtocolsJohn's IG: https://www.instagram.com/johnbabraj/
May 5, 2025 • 50min
Maximal Strength Training Without The Barbell + Exposing secretofathleticism (SSOF Ep 146)
Conditioning Mentorship: https://performance.education/esd/Free 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-shortsJames discusses various aspects of strength training for combat athletes, focusing on the philosophy behind traditional versus non-traditional strength training, the importance of specificity in training, and the overshoot phenomenon in muscle adaptation. He also addresses common misconceptions in athletic training and emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of strength and conditioning in combat sports.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Guests0:58 Strength Training Philosophy for Combat Athletes5:25 Maximal Strength Training and Its Application18:05 Specificity in Training for Combat Sports25:49 Integrating Training Methods for Optimal Performance28:40 The Overshoot Phenomenon in Athletic Performance32:53 Understanding Muscle Fiber Types and Their Impact37:27 DeTraining and Its Effects on Performance41:20 Marketing Tactics in Athletic Training Systems49:21 Advanced Eccentric Training Techniques
Apr 28, 2025 • 46min
UFC Chef Shares Easy Recipes To Fuel Training & Cut Weight Easier w/ Mario Limaduran (SSOF Ep 145)
Free 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-shortsIn this podcast episode, Mario, a culinary nutrition expert, shares his extensive background in nutrition for sports performance, particularly in the context of MMA and UFC fighters. He discusses his role at Trifecta, a meal delivery service, and how he collaborates with dietitians to create tailored meal plans for fighters during their training camps. The conversation covers the importance of nutrition in fight preparation, common mistakes fighters make, and practical meal ideas for athletes. Mario also highlights the growing demand for high-protein meals and the trends in the meal delivery industry, emphasizing the need for accurate nutritional information.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Culinary Nutrition and Podcasting00:25 Mario's Background in Culinary Nutrition01:54 Partnership with UFC Performance Institute03:17 Working with Fighters and Nutrition During Fight Camp04:54 Understanding Meal Preparation for Fighters07:58 Nutrition Changes Throughout Fight Camp11:22 Fight Week Recipes and Snack Ideas16:45 Meal Delivery Accuracy and Customization20:17 Trifecta's Performance Meals and Market Demand22:49 The Importance of Flavor in Nutrition26:07 Simple Seasoning Techniques for Healthy Meals30:11 Easy Meal Prep Ideas for Fighters36:28 Current Trends in Performance Nutrition39:47 Common Nutritional Mistakes Among Fighters44:21 Future Innovations in Trifecta NutritionMario's IG: https://www.instagram.com/chefmario._/
Apr 21, 2025 • 49min
The Real Role Of Fascia & How To Train It w/ Danny Foley (SSOF Ep 144)
Free 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-shortsIn this episode of the Sweet Sounds of Fighting podcast, host James interviews Danny Foley, a performance therapist and strength coach, who shares his insights on the importance of fascia in training. Danny discusses his background in restorative strength training, emphasizing the need for injury management and performance enhancement. He explains the role of fascia as a global connective tissue that influences movement and strength, and how training adaptations can be influenced by loading techniques. The conversation also covers practical applications of various exercises, including the Zercher hold split squat, and the significance of variability in training for athletes, particularly in combat sports.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Danny Foley and His Background03:15 Restorative Strength Training vs Traditional Approaches07:49 Fascia and Its Role in Training14:42 Understanding Fascia: Definition and Importance18:12 Training Adaptations and the Fascial System22:54 Biasing Muscular vs Connective Tissue in Training24:57 Innovative Approaches to Strength Training29:50 Transitioning from Traditional to Functional Training35:19 Specificity in Training for Combat Sports39:21 Practical Applications of the Zercher Hold Split Squat43:23 Structuring a Comprehensive Training DayDanny's IG: https://www.instagram.com/danmode_ruderock/
Apr 20, 2025 • 59min
Advanced Strength & Conditioning For Strikers w/ Anthony Turner (SSOF Ep 143)
Free 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-shortsIn this conversation, Anthony Turner discusses his philosophy on strength and conditioning, particularly in the context of combat sports. He emphasizes the importance of injury prevention, the role of plyometrics, and the need for a holistic approach to training. Turner also addresses the significance of technical skills in striking, the impact of interlimb asymmetries, and the relevance of various conditioning methods beyond traditional running. He shares insights on building explosiveness and acceleration, and concludes with resources for further learning.Timestamps00:00 Cultural Accents and Family Backgrounds00:05 Introduction to Anthony Turner01:13 Philosophy of Strength and Conditioning06:06 Training for Striking Power10:48 Specificity in Strength Training14:06 Progressive Training Cycles19:58 Addressing Asymmetries in Training29:52 Holistic Training Approaches in Combat Sports36:26 The Role of Conditioning in Athletic Performance49:53 Explosiveness and Acceleration in Training56:32 Resources and Insights from Anthony TurnerAnthony's IG: https://www.instagram.com/anthonyturnerukNew book: https://amzn.to/42cywxu
Apr 7, 2025 • 60min
Bullsh*t Fascia Training & Agile Periodization For Fighters w/ William Wayland (SSOF Ep 142)
Free 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-shortsIn this conversation, William Wayland discusses his transition from gym ownership to consultancy, emphasizing the challenges of managing a gym and the joy of coaching. He explores the similarities between golf and combat sports, critiques performative training, and delves into the role of fascia in athletic performance. Wayland introduces agile periodization as a flexible training approach tailored to individual needs, highlighting the evolution of training methods in combat sports. He also shares insights into Arnold Allen's training regimen and injury management, advocating for a more intelligent and individualized approach to athlete training.Timestamps00:00 Transitioning from Gym Owner to Consultant03:10 The Intersection of Golf and Combat Sports06:11 Understanding Performative Training and Fascia12:45 The Debate on Training Methodologies19:03 The Importance of Empiricism in Coaching24:49 Agile Periodization for Modern Athletes30:03 Training with Individual Needs in Mind36:45 The Importance of Consistency in Training42:43 Adapting Training for Combat Sports58:03 The Evolution of Arnold Allen's TrainingWilliam's IG: https://www.instagram.com/coachwwayland/Twitter: https://x.com/WSWayland
Mar 31, 2025 • 48min
Longsword Constraints Led Approach For Fighters w/ Stephen Cheney (SSOF Ep 141)
Free 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/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-shortsIn this episode of the Sweet Science of Fighting podcast, host James interviews Stephen Cheney, a practitioner and coach in the world of longsword and historical European martial arts (HEMA). Stephen shares his journey from traditional martial arts to adopting a constraints-led approach in training, emphasizing the importance of ecological learning and games-based methodologies.The conversation delves into the rules of longsword fighting, the significance of mindset in training, and how to effectively progress through various games to enhance skill development. Stephen also discusses the differences in skill levels among practitioners and offers resources for those interested in learning more about longsword and HEMA.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Stephen Cheney and His Background02:26 Transitioning to Constraint-Led Approach in Training05:46 Understanding Longsword Fighting Rules and Techniques08:32 Ecological Approach vs. Traditional Methods11:30 Games and Constraints in Longsword Training14:43 Progressing Through Training Games17:31 Designing Games for Specific Outcomes20:29 Engaging with Different Opponents and Styles27:13 Understanding Movement in Fencing28:29 Evaluating Fencing Techniques30:30 The Traits of Successful Fencers32:16 Creativity and Risk in Fencing34:15 The Role of Sparring in Training36:33 Managing Skill Differences in Fencing40:19 Resources for Learning HEMA42:04 Exploring Melee Fighting Championship45:02 The Skills of Historical FencingStephen's YT: https://www.youtube.com/@OveranalyzingLongswordWebsite: https://www.gd4h.org/
Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 2min
Optimal Volume, Long Muscle Length Training, & How Much Protein w/ Dr. Eric Helms (SSOF Ep 140)
Free 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/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-shortsIn this episode of the Sweet Science of Fighting podcast, Dr. Eric Helms discusses various aspects of training for muscle growth, including the importance of training volume, the optimal number of sets, and the role of protein intake.He delves into the effective rep model, the debate surrounding long muscle length training, and the mechanisms of muscle growth, comparing metabolic stress and mechanical tension. The conversation emphasizes the need for context in training and nutrition, particularly for combat sports athletes, and provides insights into how to maximize muscle retention and growth during training and dieting phases.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Volume and Muscle Growth03:37 Defining Optimal Volume for Muscle Growth07:40 Volume and Strength: Balancing Fatigue and Performance11:42 The Effective Rep Model: Debating Rep Ranges15:36 Understanding Mechanisms of Muscle Growth23:46 Metabolic Stress vs. Mechanical Tension30:24 Recent Advances in Muscle Physiology Research32:33 Long Muscle Length Training: Controversies and Insights44:33 The Role of Protein in Muscle Retention and GrowthEric's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helms3dmj/3DMJ: https://www.3dmusclejourney.com/
Mar 10, 2025 • 49min
How "Super Circuits" Will Make You Into An Unstoppable Boxer (SSOF Ep 139)
Free 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/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-shortsIn this episode of the Sweet Science Of Fighting podcast, Edward Baker discusses his work with Fight Lab, focusing on strength and conditioning for boxers. He shares insights on data-driven training methods, the innovative 'super circuits' approach, and the importance of both peripheral and central adaptations in athletic performance. Edward also delves into tapering strategies before fights, effective conditioning techniques during fight camp, and the significance of breath control for enhancing performance. The conversation highlights the balance between training intensity and recovery, providing valuable insights for athletes and coaches alike.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Overview of Fight Lab02:34 Data Gathering and Performance Metrics05:34 Training Adaptations and Trends08:34 Super Circuits: Concept and Development11:21 Peripheral vs Central Training Focus14:33 Circuit Structure and Progression17:42 Integration with Strength and Conditioning23:37 Efficient Training for Fighters31:53 Tapering Strategies Before a Fight35:45 Mental Challenges During Tapering37:36 Conditioning and Adaptations in Fight Camp43:17 Breath Control for Performance47:26 Explosive Training and Recovery StrategiesEd's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefightlabuk/
