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In this episode Muscles and Management, Gerry sits down with Andrew Sacks, founder of Prime Sports Performance, to dive into the world of sports science and its application in real training environments. With experience across private sector coaching and deep data analytics, Andrew brings a grounded perspective on what actually matters when it comes to athlete development.
The episode covers practical use of force plates and technology, how to build buy-in with athletes, and why focusing on basics still wins. Andrew also shares insights on business growth, mentorship, and bridging the gap between sports science and day-to-day performance training.
If you're a coach trying to integrate more data without losing your training soul—or an athlete who wants to understand what metrics actually matter—this episode is packed with applicable takeaways.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro to Andrew Sacks and Prime Sports Performance
3:20 – Andrew’s background and path into sports science
7:05 – Building trust and buy-in with athletes
10:10 – The real-world use of data and force plates
14:22 – Why tech alone doesn’t create better athletes
18:40 – Training simplicity and sticking to the fundamentals
22:13 – How Andrew designs programs with intent and progression
26:48 – Balancing objective data with coaching instincts
31:09 – Lessons from growing a training business
35:55 – Thoughts on mentorship, education, and industry trends
40:36 – Final advice for young coaches and closing remarksGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In Episode 242 of Muscles and Management, Gerry chats with Zack Zillner, Head Performance Coach for Texas Women's Basketball and former coach with the University of Kansas, University of Illinois, and the Chicago Bulls. Zack brings a no-BS approach to training—removing fluff, prioritizing foundational work, and building systems that actually serve athletes.
The two dive into Zack’s journey through high-level athletics, his evolution as a coach, and the lessons he's learned about doing less—but better. Topics include training simplicity, using data practically, developing athleticism without gimmicks, and the importance of trusting the process in both rehab and performance environments.
Whether you're a coach, athlete, or just want to cut through the noise in strength and conditioning, this episode brings clarity, honesty, and real-world insight.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro to Zack Zillner and his coaching background
2:50 – From Chicago Bulls to Texas Women’s Basketball: Coaching evolution
6:30 – What Zack values most in a training program
9:10 – Overcomplication in S&C: Why simple wins
12:44 – How Zack structures his programs with intention and progression
17:20 – The role of data in performance coaching: real-world use vs. overkill
21:03 – Trends and gimmicks in strength and conditioning
25:12 – Using team sport principles to guide training for female athletes
29:38 – How Zack handles in-season vs. off-season work
32:45 – Recovery strategies and the value of sleep and nutrition
36:10 – Common rehab pitfalls and the athlete’s mental game
40:02 – Coaching takeaways and final thoughts on career growth and mentorship
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In Episode 241 of Muscles and Management, Gerry sits down with Arno Rheinberger—former NFL and Division 1 athletic trainer with stops at the New York Giants, Rutgers, Minnesota, and more—for a raw, in-depth conversation on injuries, rehab, and the complicated relationship between performance and return-to-play.
They dive into the recent surge of Achilles tears in high-level sports and ask the hard questions: Are athletes being pushed enough in rehab? Are we preparing them for the real forces of sport? Is fear holding back professionals from doing what athletes truly need?
Arno also shares his honest thoughts on the broken communication between strength coaches and athletic trainers, how return-to-play protocols often miss the mark, and why both sides must come together for true athlete readiness.
Topics include:
The rise of Achilles injuries and whether rehab intensity is to blameCommunication breakdowns between medical and performance staffWhat rehab should look like (and why it often doesn’t)The fear of pushing athletes too hard—and why that’s a problemLong-term wear and tear from youth sportsSocial media gimmicks vs. real-world resultsBuilding mutual respect and collaboration in athletic developmentA must-listen for strength coaches, athletic trainers, and anyone serious about injury reduction and long-term athlete resilience.
0:00 – Intro to Arno Rheinberger and his background in NFL and Division 1 football
3:10 – The reality of job security in collegiate/pro sports vs. the private sector
6:45 – Social media influence and frustration with viral “junk training”
10:32 – The importance of purposeful exercises in rehab and performance
13:20 – Working relationships between strength coaches and athletic trainers
16:40 – Communication and collaboration for better return-to-play outcomes
20:05 – Strength coaches pushing athletic trainers to rethink limitations
23:18 – Fear in rehab: why many athletes aren’t pushed hard enough
26:50 – Jerry’s personal injury story and how rehab intensity matters
30:14 – Why ACL and Achilles re-injuries are more common than we think
34:12 – Controlled training vs. chaotic real-game scenarios
37:00 – Youth sports overuse vs. under-preparedness in college/pros
40:48 – Achilles injuries in modern athletes: overtraining or underpreparing?
43:10 – Final thoughts on moderation, exposure, and collaborative rehabGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry sits down with Brijesh Patel—longtime Director of Athletic Performance at Quinnipiac University—for a masterclass in building culture, earning athlete buy-in, and leading with purpose in the strength and conditioning world.
Brijesh shares lessons from over 20 years in the field, including how to:
Build sustainable in-season training that actually improves performanceCreate a weight room culture where effort and discipline are non-negotiablesTrain athletes with vastly different bodies, personalities, and needs under one roofUse logistics and constraints as a tool—not an excuseTurn average athletes into exceptional ones through intention and consistencyTeach athletes to become 24/7 performers, not just show up for an hour liftThey also discuss leadership development, athlete motivation tiers (survivors, contenders, competitors, commanders), and how real progress comes not from the perfect program—but from consistency, clarity, and culture.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or someone managing a high-performing team, this episode delivers truth bombs on what really drives long-term success.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction and Brijesh’s Background
2:12 – The Real-World Value of Logistics and Flexibility in Programming
5:00 – Early Challenges: Culture, Buy-In, and Accountability
8:21 – Creating a “Do Extra” Culture and a Packed Weight Room
10:01 – Training Different Body Types? Focus on Mentality First
12:26 – Effort > Program: Why Execution Matters Most
15:00 – Building a 24-Hour Athlete: Nutrition, Sleep, and Recovery
17:45 – Peer Accountability and Building a Competitive Training Environment
21:07 – Discipline Over Motivation: Lessons from Real Life
24:30 – Using Role Models and Metrics to Drive Intrinsic Buy-In
28:05 – Leadership Tiers: Survivors, Contenders, Competitors, Commanders
32:13 – Team Roles, Intangibles, and How Leaders Are Made
34:20 – In-Season Training: Why “Maintenance” Isn’t Enough
36:39 – Adjusting Loads, Managing Travel, and Keeping Force Output High
39:14 – Buying In to Heavy Lifts In-Season (Without Fear)
41:33 – How Education and Transparency Build Long-Term Trust
43:52 – Final Thoughts: Invest in Yourself to Serve OthersGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes back Joe Aratari for a raw conversation on the realities of in-season training, youth sport culture, and what too many coaches get wrong when it comes to online content, business, and development.
Joe shares lessons from over a decade training youth and high school athletes, including:
How to properly train during the season without overtraining or undertrainingWhy soreness and time constraints are excuses, not roadblocksThe importance of consistent, year-round strength work to maintain gains and prevent injuryHow to integrate lifts into practices without disrupting performanceWhy simple full-body templates win during in-season phasesWhen and how to adjust for recovery, lifestyle, and sport-specific stressThey also dive into:
The rise of influencer strength coaches with no real-world experienceThe value of long-term trust, buy-in, and smart programmingWhen it’s okay to tell a kid to go home and just be a kid for a dayThe real ROI of off-season training—and how it’s lost without in-season consistencyPacked with practical strategies, real-life anecdotes, and brutally honest takes, this one is a must-listen for any coach or parent serious about long-term athlete development.
0:00 – Introduction and Catching Up with Joe
2:25 – Social Media Coaching: Who Should You Listen To?
6:44 – Why Context and Experience Matter More Than Followers
10:32 – Building a Remote Program with Integrity and Results
15:04 – Creating Sustainable Systems for Coaches and Facilities
17:17 – Why Most Athletes Need In-Season Training
21:00 – Top Reasons Parents and Coaches Still Avoid In-Season Lifts
25:52 – Time Constraints, Practice Integration, and Real Solutions
28:29 – The ROI of Off-Season Work Hinges on In-Season Consistency
33:01 – How “Feeling Better” Converts Athletes to Buy-In
36:19 – Sample Week for a Busy High School Athlete
42:58 – Full Body Templates: Simple, Scalable, and Effective
45:43 – Year-Round Sports and Overuse: A Growing Problem
48:23 – Misconceptions Around Heavy Lifting and Injury Risk
51:08 – Rehab vs. Performance: Staying in Your Lane but Learning Enough
53:43 – Sport-Specific Training vs. Athlete Development
56:38 – Strength First: Why Foundations Beat Fancy
1:01:25 – Final Thoughts on Long-Term Athlete Development and TestingGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes back Pratik Patel—former NFL and Division I performance coach—for a raw and unfiltered conversation about the current state of social media, training misinformation, and why athletes (and coaches) need to be way more critical of who they follow and listen to.
Fueled by recent rants and debates on Twitter, Pratik lays out:
Why influencers with no athlete experience are dominating the narrativeHow to filter bad advice and identify credible voices in the sea of online noiseThe problem with “coaches” selling courses before gaining real-world experienceWhy some viral content is built purely for engagement—not athlete developmentThe value of showing actual athlete progress—not just highlight reelsHow metrics, testing, and simple logic still reign supreme in real trainingThe conversation also digs into vertical jump progress, the realities of building an online business like OnlyStrength, and the frustration of seeing coaches with real experience get drowned out by louder (and often less qualified) voices.
This is a must-listen for athletes, coaches, and parents trying to navigate fitness content online and understand the difference between entertainment and expert education.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro and Why Pratik Returned for This Episode
2:08 – Social Media's Influence on Training Narratives
3:15 – How Algorithms Reward Misinformation
6:06 – The Value of Real-World Coaching Experience
11:57 – When Big Accounts Attack Small Creators
15:45 – Why Athletes Need Better Context in Programming
19:03 – The Jalen Hurts/Saquon Squatting Debate
23:42 – Online Gurus Selling Courses Without Real Work
28:52 – The Reality of Building a Membership Platform
31:50 – Why Data-Driven Feedback Matters for Buy-In
34:00 – Performance vs. Injury Prevention at the Pro Level
36:41 – Off-Field Behavior and Coach-Athlete Trust
38:57 – How Athletes Can Vet Social Media Advice
41:04 – What to Look for in a Credible Coach
42:21 – Explaining the Why Behind Exercises
44:45 – Don’t Copy NBA/Pro Athlete Workouts
46:30 – The Problem With “Genetic Outliers” Giving Advice
47:32 – Youth Sports, Overload, and Lack of Strength Training
48:06 – Final Thoughts on Who to Trust and What Actually Works
53:01 – Pratik’s Next Project: High-Level Education Without the NoiseGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes Sean Swetnam, Assistant Director of Football Performance at UCLA, to break down how elite-level training, data integration, and interdisciplinary collaboration are fueling performance gains at one of college football’s top programs.
Sean walks us through the first eight weeks of UCLA’s offseason training block—where the team collectively gained over 546 pounds of lean mass and lost 353 pounds of fat. He shares how they built that foundation through smart, brutal training combined with seamless collaboration across strength coaches, athletic trainers, and dietitians.
Topics include:
Training structure across the week (Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri)How testing is embedded in training to avoid wasted sessionsIntegrating sprint, plyo, and strength metrics into one performance pictureWhat their Bod Pod, CMJ, NordBord, and drop jump data really meansWhy athletes don’t need complexity—they need consistencyGetting athlete buy-in through performance standards, leadership shirts, and cultural touchstonesReal-life examples of how data flags help prevent injury and manage readinessWhether you're a coach, athlete, or performance nerd, this episode is a masterclass in high-performance systems that actually work.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro and Sean’s Background: From D1 Baseball to D1 Strength Coach
4:30 – Training Roots, Mentorship, and Lessons from Track and Field
8:45 – How College Training Culture Has Changed
12:30 – Mass vs. Movement: Gaining the Right Weight
17:50 – Building Muscle and Speed: UCLA’s 8-Week Gains Breakdown
21:30 – Weekly Training Split and Foundational Strength Structure
24:50 – Eccentric Training, Tempos, and Intent-Driven Movement
27:00 – How Bod Pod and Morning Hydration Data Drive Decisions
30:50 – Daily Readiness Testing: NordBord, CMJ, Drop Jumps & More
34:15 – Using RSI, GCT, and Peak Power to Monitor Sprint Progress
38:45 – Why Readiness Metrics Need Context (Not Panic)
42:00 – Buy-In Through Competition: Leaderboards, Crowns, and Standards
46:30 – Teaching Athletes to Understand Data and Why It Matters
50:00 – Managing Stress vs. Eustress in College Athletes
51:45 – Final Thoughts: Control the Controllables, Train with PurposeGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry sits down with Malorie Henderlong, Assistant Director of Sports Performance at Auburn University, to discuss her journey through college strength and conditioning, breaking down outdated training mindsets, and creating performance systems that actually serve athletes.
Malorie opens up about her coaching stops at Baylor, UNC, NC State, and now Auburn—detailing how mentorship, trial-and-error, and trusting her gut have shaped her philosophy. She gets into:
Why the weight room is misunderstood in team sports, especially soccerHow to build athlete trust, autonomy, and buy-inThe importance of training for long-term durability over passing fitness testsHow and why conditioning is still widely misused in the college spaceWhy being a great coach also means knowing how to “sell” your ideas with humilityThe conversation also explores match-day plus/minus training models, how to structure in-season lifts for high and low-minute players, and why soccer-specific training needs to evolve beyond just running laps and hoping for the best.
Coaches, athletes, and sports staff at every level will benefit from Malorie’s raw honesty, systems thinking, and practical strategies for optimizing performance without sacrificing athlete health or development.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro to Malorie and Her Journey Across College Programs
4:06 – Chasing the Right Roles, Not Just Titles
7:08 – Coaching at Auburn and Building Out a Sports Science Department
9:00 – Internships, Mentorship, and Learning from Brutal Feedback
12:11 – Investing in Young Coaches and Paying It Forward
13:52 – Why Some Coaches Still Fear the Weight Room
16:18 – Building Trust with Coaches Through Education and Language
21:24 – Why Strength Training Matters for Team Sport Athletes
25:52 – Transfer to Sport: Acceleration, Decel, and Foundational Strength
29:25 – Biggest Conditioning Mistakes and Outdated Approaches
32:06 – Rethinking “Mental Toughness” and Contextual Fatigue
34:47 – Learn the Sport, Then Reverse Engineer the Training
37:24 – Winning Coach Buy-In Through Relatable Language and Logic
41:05 – When “Learning the Hard Way” Helps Create Buy-In
44:33 – Offseason Conditioning: Play More, Sprint More, Lift More
46:52 – The Problem with Fitness Tests (and What to Do Instead)
51:37 – Misplaced Priorities: Testing vs. Actual Match Readiness
56:34 – Match Day Plus/Minus: In-Season Programming Done Right
1:01:09 – Auto-Regulation, Athlete Autonomy, and Keeping It Simple
1:03:15 – Training in Chaos: From Structured Plans to Afrobeat Sessions
1:06:42 – Match Day Periodization Across Sports
1:08:20 – Final Advice: Learn the Sport, Learn Your CoachesGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry is joined by Matt Gebert, newly appointed strength and conditioning coach for Auburn Football, previously at Arizona. Matt brings a deep dive into real-world speed development for football players, with a focus on position-specific programming, sprint mechanics, and how to effectively use the high/low model for both performance and injury prevention.
They break down:
The SMAS sprint mechanics scoring system: a free and objective way to evaluate and improve sprinting posture and efficiencySprint training for linemen vs. skill positions: why all positions need sprint exposure—but not in the same wayThe “butt-kick epidemic” in football and how to correct poor front-side mechanicsBlending acceleration and max velocity days, and how to match plyometric and strength work to ground contact demandsHigh/low training structure in the off-season vs. in-season, and how to individualize workloads based on playing timeSpeed testing and leaderboards to increase athlete engagement and competitive driveMatt also shares how to handle athlete autonomy on game day, how to create buy-in without micromanaging, and yes—how one NFL athlete used tomatoes in a bizarre pre-game routine.
This one is packed with practical strategies for organizing large football rosters, individualizing training based on need and position, and pushing athletic performance while keeping guys healthy.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro to the Episode and Guest, Matt Gebert3:17 – Foundational Training and Social Media Gimmicks6:33 – Influence of Joe DeFranco and Cam Josse on Matt’s Approach9:46 – Sprint Mechanics Assessment (SMAS): Objective Speed Analysis14:25 – Addressing Positional Differences: Linemen vs. Skill Players20:00 – Butt-Kicking Epidemic and Front/Back Side Mechanics23:37 – Using Cues vs. Addressing Physical Limitations27:16 – Sprint Training Design for Linemen: 2 Accel Days + Adjusted MaxV30:08 – Ground Contact Matching in Plyometrics and Lifts32:49 – High/Low Programming Model in the Off-Season34:54 – In-Season Adjustments and Stress Regulation with Practice39:46 – Lifting Structure Based on Player Participation40:34 – Game Day Warm-Up Structure and Athlete Autonomy44:38 – Craziest Game Day Routine: The Tomato Knees45:50 – Weekly Speed Days, Testing Setups, and Competition Culture51:35 – Extracting Peak Output: Why Competition Drives Performance52:32 – Final Thoughts and Coaching PhilosophyGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes speed and performance specialist Jorge Carvajal for a deep dive into building real-world speed, athlete resilience, and cutting through the noise in the world of performance training.
Jorge shares insights from over 30 years in the field, including experiences working with NFL athletes, tactical athletes, and elite performers across multiple sports. The conversation starts with Jorge’s early mentorship under Tony Villani and how it completely shifted his understanding of speed development—taking him from a strength-only coach to a true performance coach.They unpack:
The evolution from "strength coach" to "performance coach"Why sprinting must be in your program (and why it’s non-negotiable for speed)Understanding load management, especially for high school athletesThe balance between “less is more” and doing enough to move the needleForce absorption and the overlooked importance of deceleration trainingUsing testing data to know when to push strength and when to back offWhy context is king in coaching decisions (especially with parents and over-programmed athletes)Jorge also shares practical wisdom on athlete recovery, how to manage central nervous system fatigue, and why smart, simple programming beats trendy overcomplication every time.
This is an absolute masterclass for coaches and athletes looking to train smarter, avoid injuries, and get faster—without falling into the trap of chasing numbers for the sake of it.Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction to the Episode and Guest, Jorge Carvajal
2:24 – Jorge’s Start and Early Mentorship from Tony Villani
7:39 – Rethinking Ladder Drills and Purpose-Driven Application
12:10 – Humbling Lessons on Speed: "I Realized I Knew Nothing"
16:00 – Jorge’s Evolution: From Strength Coach to Performance Coach
19:54 – Contextual Coaching: What Do Your Athletes Really Need?
23:08 – Sprinting and Strength: Knowing When Enough is Enough
29:04 – Avoiding Excessive Mass Gains That Slow Athletes Down
33:35 – Chasing Numbers vs. Chasing Results: Keep the Context
37:11 – Load Management: Avoiding Overload, Especially in Young Athletes
42:12 – Why High School Strength Coaches Deserve Huge Respect
44:58 – Less is More: Structuring Sprint Workouts for Recovery
48:15 – Monitoring Athlete Readiness and Recovery Daily
53:08 – When Strength Stops Translating to Performance
57:48 – Deceleration Training: Building Better, Safer Athletes
1:02:10 – Film Study and Sport-Specific Application of Deceleration
1:05:11 – Final Thoughts: Stay Humble, Stay Curious, and Keep LearningGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry sits down with elite strength coach and performance consultant William Wayland to dig deep into what truly drives long-term athlete development—and what doesn’t.
They waste no time diving into the overuse of unstable surface training, especially in rotational sports like golf and baseball, and why chasing “core stability” often misses the point. William explains how performance has been overtaken by gimmicks and fear-driven training methods and provides clear, practical alternatives rooted in real-world results.
They also discuss:
Hand-supported squats and RDLs as tools to break through strength plateausTraining adaptations in-season vs. off-seasonThe importance of context and communication when working with athletesNeck training and its underappreciated role in performance and injury preventionAI in coaching, and why great coaches offer more than spreadsheets and rep schemesFrom tackling social media misinformation to offering real solutions for building resilient, high-performing athletes, this episode is a masterclass in modern coaching.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro to the Episode and Guest, William Wayland
3:12 – The Problem with Unstable Surface Training in Sport
7:39 – Social Media Influence and Why Gimmicks Go Viral
10:25 – Fear of Loading and the Rise of “Safe but Useless” Training
16:00 – Real Force Production vs. Balance Drills
18:42 – Breaking Strength Plateaus with Hand-Supported Variations
25:00 – In-Season vs. Off-Season Programming Adjustments
29:36 – Novelty, Monotony, and When to Change Training Stimuli
34:00 – The Role of Communication and Subjective Feedback
37:47 – Coaching in Chaos: Travel, Sleep, and Agile Programming
42:00 – AI and the Future of Strength Coaching
48:22 – Neck Training: Benefits, Myths, and Practical Programming
55:32 – When and How to Program Neck Work
58:23 – Evidence vs. Experience: Finding the Balance
1:01:18 – Final Thoughts on Craftsmanship in CoachingGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry sits down with Justin Wickard—track and field coach, speed expert, and founder of Tier One Athlete—to break down what it really takes to get athletes faster.
The conversation dives deep into:Why mechanics matter more than gimmicksThe misunderstood role of sleds and resistance sprintingWhy posture and pelvic positioning are crucial for top-end speedHow to avoid “speed lock” and overstimulating the CNSWhy submaximal sprinting may be a missing pieceThe limits of strength and when it stops translating to speed
With nearly two decades of experience across Division I programs like TCU and Air Force, Justin shares his journey from intern to elite sprint coach, and how his philosophy has evolved from traditional volume-heavy training to a precision-based approach rooted in movement quality, recovery, and intent.
They also take aim at the overhyped obsession with 40-yard dash times, dissect the pros and cons of modern speed trends on social media, and explore how team sport coaches can better integrate proven track and field methods.
If you're a coach or athlete looking to cut through the noise and learn how to actually improve speed—without sacrificing movement, health, or long-term development—this one’s a must-listen.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction to the Episode and Guest, Justin Wickard
3:16 – Coaching Journey: 14 Years in College Track & Field
7:50 – The Power of Mentorship and Learning from Elite Coaches
10:43 – Evolving as a Coach: From Volume to Recovery-Based Programming
17:06 – The 40-Yard Dash: Misconceptions, Realistic Standards, and NFL Combine Talk
23:37 – Building Acceleration: Coordination, Strength, and Common Mistakes
27:52 – The Sled Debate: How It’s Misused and When to Avoid It
29:18 – Max Velocity: Mechanics, Posture, and Injury Prevention
34:25 – Submaximal Sprinting: Slowing Down to Speed Up
38:02 – Less vs. More: Finding the Right Sprint Volume for Each Athlete
41:08 – Avoiding the Trap of “Speed Branding” on Social Media
44:11 – How Much Speed Work is Enough (or Too Much)?
47:10 – Agility, Change of Direction, and Being an All-Around Athlete
48:15 – Bridging Track and Team Sports: What Coaches Can Learn From Each Other
52:00 – Wickets, Programming Nuance, and Final ThoughtsGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes Brad Dixon, head football coach, track coach, and advocate for the Feed the Cats training philosophy. Brad shares his journey from traditional, old-school coaching methods to a more data-driven and athlete-first approach, optimizing both speed and strength for long-term athletic development.
Brad breaks down how he transitioned from overloading athletes with conditioning to implementing sprint-based training, why max velocity work is often the missing link in high school sports, and how to balance weight room training with speed development. He also dives into the biggest misconceptions about Feed the Cats, why football coaches often resist change, and the importance of adapting training models to individual athletes instead of following generic plans.
They also discuss how to integrate speed training into multi-sport schedules, why strength alone isn’t enough, and how to create a system that keeps athletes healthy while maximizing their performance.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction to the Episode and Guest, Brad Dixon
3:17 – From Old-School Training to Feed the Cats
7:39 – The Shift in Strength and Conditioning Principles
12:10 – Social Media’s Role in Spreading Training Trends
15:35 – Addressing Misconceptions About Feed the Cats
19:54 – Why Max Velocity Training is the Missing Link
23:37 – Balancing Strength and Speed in Training Programs
26:23 – The Role of Game Speed in Athletic Development
30:24 – Overcoming Resistance to New Training Methods
39:46 – The Real Definition of Hard Work in Sports
44:15 – How to Program for Speed, Strength, and Recovery
51:01 – The Future of Coaching: Adaptation and Growth
54:11 – Final Thoughts: Train Smart, Recover Well, and Keep LearningGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes back Ben Brewster, founder of Tread Athletics, to discuss the evolving landscape of pitching development, strength training, and how technology and social media are shaping modern training methods.
Ben shares insights on the advancements in pitch tracking technology, how social media influences training trends (for better or worse), and the role of strength training in pitching performance. He also breaks down the pitfalls of over-relying on training gadgets, how athletes should filter out misinformation, and why understanding biomechanics is critical for long-term success.
They dive into the balance between strength training and skill development, the importance of movement quality, and why "sports-specific" training often misses the mark. Ben also reveals his “toothpaste tube” analogy for squeezing out every last bit of performance potential and shares lessons from his personal journey—from a 150-pound high school freshman to a 98-mph professional pitcher.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction to the Episode and Guest, Ben Brewster
3:17 – The Evolution of Pitching and Strength Training
7:39 – How Technology Has Transformed Training
12:10 – Social Media’s Role in Training Trends
15:35 – The Problem with Over-Specialization in Youth Sports
19:54 – The Spread of Training Misconceptions Online
23:37 – The Debate on Strength vs. Skill-Specific Training
26:23 – Finding the Right Balance Between Lifting and Throwing
30:24 – The Role of Movement Quality and Injury Prevention
39:46 – Misconceptions About Strength Training in Pitching
44:15 – How to Train Smarter and Avoid Overtraining
51:01 – The “Toothpaste Tube” Analogy for Peak Performance
54:11 – Final Thoughts: Maximizing Every Training OpportunityGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode, Gerry welcomes Quentin Wiley, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and strength coach at the University of North Carolina, to discuss the intersection of rehab and performance training. Quentin shares insights on the growing hype around fascia-based training, movement variability for injury prevention, and the balance between treatment, recovery, and foundational training principles. They also explore the role of social media in shaping training trends, common misconceptions in strength and conditioning, and how to bridge the gap between rehab and performance.
Quentin breaks down why movement variability is key to reducing injury risk, the overuse of passive recovery modalities, and why training should focus on long-term athlete resilience rather than gimmicks. He also dives into the role of strength training in injury prevention, how manual therapy is often misunderstood, and why many athletes overcomplicate recovery instead of prioritizing sleep, hydration, and nutrition.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction to the Episode and Guest, Quentin Wiley
3:17 – Quentin’s Background: From UNC Lacrosse to Physical Therapy
7:39 – Transition from Athlete to Strength Coach and DPT
12:10 – Social Media’s Role in Strength and Rehab Trends
15:35 – The Problem with Over-Specialization in Youth Sports
19:54 – How Training Misconceptions Spread Through Social Media
23:37 – The Debate on Movement Variability for Injury Prevention
26:23 – Strength Training vs. Rehab: Finding the Balance
30:24 – Fascia Training Hype: Science vs. Pseudoscience
39:46 – Why Passive Recovery Methods Are Overrated
44:15 – The Role of Manual Therapy in Pain Management
51:01 – How Strength Training Builds Resilience and Injury Prevention
54:11 – Final Thoughts: Smart Training, Recovery, and Avoiding GimmicksGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode, Gerry welcomes Brandon Davis, a strength and conditioning coach, to discuss vertical jump training and performance strategies. They dive into the importance of altitude drops, resisted sprints, and the role of eccentric training in athletic development. Brandon shares insights on common training misconceptions, including the misuse of VertiMax, overcomplicating jump training, and the obsession with sport-specific gimmicks. The discussion also covers how social media influences training trends, the challenges of coaching in different settings, and the effectiveness of loaded jumps and Olympic lifts.
Brandon explains why he prioritizes eccentric overload and altitude drops for injury prevention and performance, as well as his shift away from Olympic lifts in favor of resisted sprinting and alternative jump training methods. The conversation provides valuable insights for coaches and athletes looking to enhance power, speed, and jump mechanics.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction and Podcast Recognition
3:39 – Welcoming Brandon Davis and Episode Overview
5:28 – Common Misconceptions in Jump Training and Performance
7:39 – The VertiMax Debate: Effective or Overhyped?
12:10 – The Problem with Sport-Specific Training Gimmicks
15:35 – Issues with Speed Ladder Training for Athletic Performance
17:25 – The Rise of Fascia-Based Training: Overhyped or Useful?
19:54 – How Social Media Affects Strength and Conditioning Trends
23:37 – Box Jumps for Conditioning: Misuse and Proper Application
26:23 – Why Altitude Drops Are Essential for Athletic Development
30:24 – Addressing the Fear of High Drop Landings
34:12 – Progressing Athletes to Maximal Landings and Drop Heights
37:36 – The Role of Eccentric Strength in Vertical Jump Development
41:36 – Why Basic Training Works for a Long Time in Young Athletes
45:37 – Stimulus Rotation vs. Sticking with the Basics
50:35 – Olympic Lifts: Are They Necessary for Power Development?
57:50 – The Best Loaded Jump Variations for Vertical Jump Gains
1:02:14 – The Drawbacks of Trap Bar Jumps and Setup ConstraintsGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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On this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes Wesley Wang, a sports physical therapist specializing in injury rehab and performance optimization. Wesley shares key insights into preventing and recovering from ACL injuries, common mistakes athletes make in training, and how to structure rehab for long-term durability and peak performance.
The conversation covers how strength training impacts injury risk, the role of mobility and stability in rehab, and practical strategies for staying healthy while improving performance. Wesley also debunks common myths about rehab, explains why return-to-play testing is crucial, and offers actionable advice for athletes, coaches, and parents.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Episode Timestamps:
00:45 Introduction to Wesley Wang and his background in sports physical therapy
06:10 The rise of ACL injuries and why they’re so common
12:35 Key strength training principles for injury prevention
18:50 Why mobility and stability matter in rehab
24:15 The biggest rehab mistakes athletes make
31:40 How to safely return to sport after injury
39:20 Debunking myths about injury prevention and recovery
45:05 The importance of long-term athletic development
52:30 Practical takeaways for athletes, coaches, and parentsGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode of Muscles and Management, Gerry welcomes back two highly respected performance coaches, Brendan Thompson and Joseph Potts, for an unfiltered conversation on the state of strength and conditioning. The trio dives into pressing topics such as the role of social media in coaching, the rise of "guru" trainers, and the increasing reliance on over-assessment in sports science.
Brendan and Joseph share insights on in-season and off-season training philosophies, discuss whether max-speed training is overrated, and explore the importance of contextualizing KPIs rather than chasing arbitrary numbers. They also analyze the dangers of misinformation in the industry, particularly around speed development and force plate data, and how young athletes can navigate today’s recruiting landscape.
The conversation is packed with real-world examples from professional sports, including NFL, MLB, and collegiate athletics, offering listeners a raw and insightful look at what truly matters in athlete development.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Support the show (http://www.challengerstrength.com)
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to the Episode and Guests, Brendan Thompson & Joseph Potts
3:06 The Role of Social Media in Coaching & the Rise of “Gurus”
7:14 The State of the Strength & Conditioning Industry: Misinformation & Overcomplication
12:30 The Problem with Over-Assessing Athletes & Data Overload
17:09 Strength vs. Speed: Do Heavy Lifts Actually Make You Faster?
23:26 Chasing KPIs: Why Context Matters More Than Arbitrary Metrics
28:15 Overuse of Force Plates, Readiness Testing & Tech Gimmicks in Training
35:00 The Warm-Up as an Assessment: Why Simplicity Wins
39:02 The Fine Line Between Testing & Over-Testing
41:37 The Changing Landscape of College Recruiting & NIL’s Impact
50:00 The Truth About Football Combines & Baseball Showcases
56:41 In-Season Speed Training: How Much Is Necessary?
57:46 Is Max Speed Training Overrated? The Science & Debate
1:07:00 Preventing Hamstring Injuries with Strategic Sprinting
1:10:00 Final Thoughts on Building Better Athletes & Avoiding Industry PitfallsGet A 7 Day FREE TRIAL On Onlystrength! - https://www.onlystrength.training/podcastoffer
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In this episode, Gerry discusses the critical elements of speed development for team sport athletes, particularly baseball players. He breaks down acceleration, top speed, and the nuances of sprint training, emphasizing how these factors impact performance on the field. The episode highlights the importance of exposing athletes to longer sprints, addressing common speed training mistakes, and optimizing the 60-yard dash—a key metric for baseball scouting.
Gerry introduces the newly launched Diamond Speed Protocol (https://www.onlystrength.training/diamond-speed-protocol?new_run=true), a comprehensive speed training program designed specifically for baseball players. He explains the role of velocity-based training, heavy resisted sprints, and proper mechanics in maximizing acceleration. The conversation also covers common misconceptions about strength training for speed and why athletes should prioritize force output over perfect sprint mechanics.
Throughout the episode, Gerry and Mike discuss their own experiences with speed training (or the lack thereof) in high school and how modern approaches have evolved. They stress the importance of structured training and preparation before showcases, rather than randomly attending events without optimizing performance.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!Support the show (http://www.challengerstrength.com)
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction to the Episode and Overview of Speed Development
1:37 Importance of Ratings, Reviews, and Supporting the Podcast
2:31 Baseball-Specific Speed Training and Launch of the Diamond Speed Protocol
5:25 Challenges of the 60-Yard Dash and Its Role in Baseball Recruiting
10:18 Common Speed Training Mistakes and Why Athletes Struggle with the 60-Yard Dash
14:55 Gerry and Mike Discuss Their Personal Experiences with Speed Training in High School
21:53 Why Baseball Players Need to Train for Top Speed and Acceleration
24:51 Importance of Identifying Weaknesses in Acceleration vs. Top Speed Mechanics
27:19 The Role of Timing Splits in Sprint Performance Assessment
29:24 Acceleration Mechanics: The Benefits of Sled Sprints and Heavy Resistance Training
35:06 Understanding Skill Acquisition and Self-Organization in Sprint Training
40:28 How Resisted Sprints Improve Mechanics Without Over-Coaching
43:16 Strength Training for Speed: How Much Does It Matter?
46:02 Prioritizing Force Output Over Perfect Sprint Mechanics
48:00 Integrating Sprint Training into Existing Strength Programs
50:35 Why the Diamond Speed Protocol Is a Game-Changer for Athletes
55:55 Upcoming Guests and Future Program Plans
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In this episode, Gerry welcomes Cam Dietz, Director of Performance at the University of Cincinnati Baseball program, to discuss performance training strategies. Cam shares insights on rotational power, resisted sprints, and balancing intensity with recovery for athletes. He highlights the value of single-leg movements, resisted acceleration, and how he integrates med ball throws to develop power. The conversation also touches on the evolving training landscape, the importance of social media for coaches, and how to create buy-in and motivation among athletes.
Cam dives into how resisted sprints can improve force production and technique, the value of training rotational power year-round, and why unilateral exercises dominate his programming. He also shares advice for coaches on building their brand and leveraging social media for career growth.
All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
Support the show (http://www.challengerstrength.com)3:28 Cam’s Background and the Role of Social Media in Coaching
7:39 Avoiding Overcomplication in Training Philosophy
12:30 The Five Core Movements Cam Focuses on for Athlete Development
15:55 Unilateral vs. Bilateral Training and Program Structure
23:37 Resisted Sprints and Acceleration for Team Sports
26:23 Programming for Resisted Acceleration: Distances, Loads, and Tools
30:24 Matching Speed and Strength Work with Ground Contact Times
39:46 Acceleration and Rotational Power: Starts and Moving Start Techniques
44:15 The Importance of Vertical Power in Rotational Training
51:01 In-Season Rotational Power Training and Managing Volume
54:11 Final Advice for Coaches: Building Your Brand and Adding Value
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