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 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
Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 5min
Oxygen Delivery vs. Utilization & Breathing To Enhance Performance w/ Andrew Hauser (SSOF Ep 162)
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-shortsAndrew Hauser shares his extensive experience in athletic training, particularly in Major League Baseball, and discusses the transition to private training. He emphasizes the importance of physiology in optimizing athletic performance and how technology like Moxie can provide valuable insights into an athlete's training. The discussion covers various topics including breath control, the implications of venous occlusion, and the identification of athletic limiters.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Background of Andrew Hauser01:09 Transitioning from Team Sports to Private Training03:51 The Role of Physiology in Athletic Performance06:56 Utilizing Moxie Technology for Athlete Assessment10:05 Understanding Venous Occlusion and Its Implications12:41 Breath Work and Its Impact on Performance16:51 Identifying and Addressing Athletic Limiters19:32 Oxygen Delivery vs. Oxygen Utilization22:40 Training Modalities for Oxygen Delivery and Utilization33:54 Breathing Techniques and Oxygen Delivery36:09 Restoring Breathing Coordination37:49 Endurance and Strength Breathing39:10 Speed Breathing and Athletic Performance41:06 Managing Anxiety Through Breathing44:59 Commercial Breath Trainers and Their Efficacy50:11 Nasal vs. Mouth Breathing54:38 Breathing in Rehabilitation and Recovery59:11 Measuring CO2 and Its Impact on PerformanceAndrew's IG: https://www.instagram.com/andrew_hauser_atsc/Website: https://www.continuumhp.com/
Sep 8, 2025 • 22min
Hypertrophy For Combat Sports & Why Tempo Training Sucks (SSOF Ep 161)
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-shorts
Sep 1, 2025 • 59min
Marvin Vettori Strength & Conditioning Case Study w/ Chase Cichos (SSOF Ep 160)
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 episode, Chase Cichos, a performance training coach specializing in combat sports, shares his journey and insights into strength and conditioning for MMA athletes. He discusses his training philosophy, the importance of individualized programs, and the differences in training approaches for various fighters. Chase also provides case studies, particularly focusing on UFC fighter Marvin Vittori, and emphasizes the significance of speed, power, and conditioning in preparing athletes for competition. Timestamps0:00 Introduction to Chase Cichos and His Background03:42 Philosophy of Strength and Conditioning in MMA09:41 Case Study: Marvin Vittori's Training Evolution20:01 Conditioning Strategies for MMA Fighters23:44 Comparative Analysis: Training Approaches for Different Fighters29:20 Training Structure and Session Frequency35:37 Scheduling and Routine for UFC Athletes39:38 Differences in Strength Training for Jiu Jitsu vs MMA49:06 Mental Preparation for Amateur Fights52:57 Tapering Strategies Before FightsChase's IG: https://www.instagram.com/chaseyourdreams247/
Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 30min
Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Conditioning For Combat Sports w/ Dr Andrew Usher (SSOF Ep 159)
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-shortsDr. Andrew Usher discusses various aspects of conditioning, including the importance of aerobic and anaerobic training, the significance of recovery, and the application of NIRS technology in understanding muscle oxygenation. The conversation highlights the need for quality movement in training and the individualized nature of recovery, emphasizing that effective conditioning requires a deep understanding of an athlete's physiology. Timestamps0:00 Introduction to Conditioning Mentorship01:33 Diverse Backgrounds in Conditioning03:08 Aerobic vs Anaerobic Training Explained07:59 The Importance of Individualized Training09:49 Understanding Recovery in Conditioning17:48 The Role of NIRS in Muscle Physiology32:56 Understanding VO2 Max and Muscle Oxygenation35:50 The Importance of Conditioning and Training Adaptations39:24 Quality of Movement in Athletic Training43:13 Desaturation and Resaturation in Athletic Performance54:45 Tailoring Conditioning Protocols for Athletes01:05:26 Optimizing Athletic Performance through Quality Movement01:08:31 Understanding the Demands of Sports Training01:10:24 The Importance of Prioritizing Training Goals01:12:24 Navigating the Landscape of Strength and Conditioning01:15:46 The Role of Testing in Athletic Development01:18:52 Innovative Approaches to Measuring Athletic Performance01:22:20 Exploring Gender Differences in Athletic Training01:25:35 The Value of Experience in Athletic TrainingAndrew's IG: https://www.instagram.com/theandrewusher/
Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 3min
What Separates World Class UFC Fighters From The Elite w/ Bill Smart (SSOF Ep. 158)
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-shortsBill Smart and James discuss various aspects of conditioning and performance in MMA, focusing on the importance of understanding physiological adaptations, the role of eccentric training, and the need for specificity in training. They explore how jump performance metrics can differentiate high-level athletes, the significance of eccentric qualities, and how to effectively integrate conditioning with technical training. The discussion also touches on the challenges of transitioning between grappling and striking, and the importance of recovery and adaptation in training programs.Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Technical Glitches02:11 Understanding Conditioning and Physiology05:09 Counter Movement Jumps in MMA12:01 Eccentric Training and Performance17:57 Eccentric Overload and Recovery24:08 Influence of Fighting Styles on Performance31:15 Exploring Training Protocols and Their Effects32:34 Air Bike Limitations and Power Training39:24 Frequency and Activation in Training43:07 Specificity in Training for MMA52:44 The Cost of Transitioning Between Grappling and StrikingBill's IG: https://www.instagram.com/smarter_performance/
Aug 4, 2025 • 51min
Expert Advice/Notes From Legendary Coaches You've NEVER Heard Of (SSOF Ep. 157)
SSOF App & Community (Code "HAPPY" For 20% OFF): https://sweetscienceoffighting.com/ssof-underground/Free 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
Jul 27, 2025 • 54min
Getting Stronger Doesn't Make You Better At Rotation? w/ Dr. Andrew Pichardo (SSOF Ep 156)
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-shortsDr. Andrew Pichardo shares his journey as a senior strength coach at IMG Academy, discussing his background in sports and strength training. He delves into his research on the correlation between general strength and rotational power, emphasizing the importance of skill and technique in sports performance.Andrew also highlights the significance of adapting training methods for different skill levels and the development of long-term athlete development models. He discusses the rigorous preparation required for Division 1 athletes and the role of weightlifting in youth training. The conversation concludes with insights on the use of technology, particularly velocity-based training, to enhance training outcomes.Timestamps0:00 Parenting Challenges and Childcare Costs02:29 Andrew Pichardo's Background and Career Path05:22 Research on Strength and Rotational Power09:04 Implications of Research on Training Practices12:13 Skill vs. Strength in Golf Performance15:21 Training Young Athletes at IMG Academy18:23 Developing an Athlete Development Model21:25 Preparing Golfers for Division 1 Competition24:19 Separation of Upper and Lower Body Movements27:11 Weightlifting vs. Traditional Strength Training30:20 Age and Training Adaptations31:53 Challenges in Youth Training32:23 Weightlifting in Golf Training34:30 Adjusting Training Methods36:25 Managing Back Injuries38:15 Exploring Alternative Exercises39:33 Technology in Training: Perch System42:48 Velocity-Based Training Applications47:31 Power Maintenance StrategiesAndrew's IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.andrewpichardo/
Jul 21, 2025 • 39min
Ultimate MMA Conditioning + Over Optimization Trends (SSOF Ep 155)
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-shorts
