Just Fly Performance Podcast

Today’s guest is Aaron Uthoff. Aaron Uthoff, PhD, is a sport scientist and coach whose work sits right at the intersection of biomechanics, motor learning, and sprint performance. His research digs into acceleration, force application, and some less conventional forms of locomotion, including backward sprinting, with the goal of connecting solid science to what actually works on the field, track, or in rehab. Backward running shows up all the time in warm-ups and general prep. Most of the time, though, it’s thrown in casually, without much thought about what it might actually be doing for speed, coordination, or tissue loading. In this episode, Aaron walks through his path into performance science, which is anything but linear. From skiing in Montana and playing desert sports, to football and track, to a stretch training horses in Australia, his journey eventually led him to research mentors in Arizona, Scotland, and New Zealand. That broad background shows up clearly in how he thinks about movement. One of the big takeaways from our conversation is Aaron’s overview of research showing that structured backward running programs can improve forward acceleration and even jumping ability. We also get into how backward running can be used as a screening and coordination tool, and where it fits into rehabilitation, including what’s happening at the joints, how muscles are working, and how to progress it without forcing things. We finish by digging into wearable resistance, including asymmetrical loading, and why this emerging tool may have more upside for speed and movement development than most people realize. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and Lila Exogen. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Topics 0:00 – Aaron’s background and coaching lens 6:40 – Seeing movement through posture and orientation 13:25 – Why breathing changes how athletes move 20:45 – Tempo, rhythm, and shaping better movement 30:10 – Constraints based coaching and problem-solving 40:55 – Sprint mechanics without over cueing 51:20 – Using environment to guide adaptation 1:01:30 – Blending strength work with movement quality 1:12:15 – Coaching intuition, feedback, and learning to see Actionable Takeaways 6:40 – Posture sets the ceiling for movement quality Good movement often starts with orientation, not technique cues. Aaron emphasizes looking at ribcage position, pelvis orientation, and head placement before trying to fix limb mechanics. Clean posture gives athletes access to better options without forcing patterns. 13:25 – Breathing influences coordination and output Breathing is not just recovery, it shapes how force is expressed. Use simple breathing resets to help athletes feel better alignment and rhythm. Watch how breathing patterns change movement quality before adding more coaching input. 20:45 – Tempo reveals how athletes organize movement Tempo exposes whether an athlete can control positions under time pressure. Slowing or slightly speeding tasks can uncover compensations without verbal instruction. Use tempo to teach rhythm instead of constantly correcting mechanics. 30:10 – Constraints beat constant verbal cueing Aaron highlights using task constraints to guide learning instead of over explaining. Change distances, targets, or starting positions to let athletes self organize. Good constraints reduce the need for constant coaching intervention. 40:55 – Sprint mechanics improve through shapes, not forcing positions Trying to force textbook sprint positions often backfires. Focus on global shapes and direction of force instead of individual joint angles. Let athletes discover better sprint mechanics through drills that preserve intent. 51:20 – Environment is a powerful teacher Surface, space, and task design matter more than many cues. Use varied environments to expand an athlete’s movement vocabulary. Small changes in environment can create big changes in coordination. 1:01:30 – Strength training should support movement, not override it Strength work should expand options, not lock athletes into rigid patterns. Choose lifts and loading schemes that preserve posture and rhythm. If strength training degrades movement quality, reassess the intent. 1:12:15 – Coaching is about learning what to ignore Not every flaw needs fixing. Aaron emphasizes knowing which details matter in the moment and which do not. Better coaches simplify their lens rather than add more rules. Quotes from Aaron Uthoff “Posture is often the biggest limiter of movement quality, not strength or mobility.” “Breathing changes how the nervous system organizes movement.” “Tempo tells you more about coordination than maximal output ever will.” “If you have to keep cueing it, the task probably needs to change.” “Good sprinting comes from better shapes, not chasing perfect positions.” “The environment can do more coaching than your words.” “Strength should give athletes more options, not fewer.” “Part of coaching maturity is learning what not to coach.” About Aaron Uthoff Aaron Uthoff, PhD, is a sport scientist, researcher, and coach focused on human movement, sprint mechanics, and motor learning. He holds a doctorate in kinesiology, with research centered on how neuromuscular factors influence speed, coordination, and efficiency. He is especially known for his work on acceleration, sprinting, and unconventional locomotor strategies such as backward running, and how these methods affect force application, tissue stress, and motor control. His work blends strong scientific foundations with practical coaching insight, making it highly relevant for track and field, team sports, and rehabilitation environments. Alongside his research, Aaron works closely with coaches and athletes to translate complex biomechanical and neurological ideas into simple, usable training concepts. His approach values curiosity, experimentation, and respecting how the body naturally adapts when it’s exposed to new movement challenges.

Today’s guest is Hayden Mitchell, Ph.D.  Hayden is a sports performance coach, educator, and researcher specializing in movement ecology and pedagogy, helping coaches design environments that support learning, resilience, self-actualization, and sustainable athletic performance through play and exploration. There is a great deal of conversation in sports performance around methods, including exercises, drills, systems, and models, but far less attention is given to coaching itself. Coaching methodology quietly shapes how athletes experience training, how they relate to challenge and failure, and ultimately how fully they are able to express themselves in performance. On the show today, Hayden speaks about exploring how coaching and physical education shape not just performance, but the whole human being. Hayden shares his path through sport, teaching, and doctoral work, including how life experiences changed his approach to leadership, control, and play. Together they discuss movement ecology, value orientations in coaching, such as mastery, learning process, self-actualization, social responsibility, and ecological integration, and why environment often matters as much as programming. The conversation highlights rhythm, joy, and exploration, along with practical ways coaches can use restraint, better questions, and playful constraints to help athletes own their development. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 – Hayden’s coaching background 6:42 – Learning through experimentation 13:55 – Movement quality versus output 21:18 – Constraints based coaching 30:07 – Strength that transfers 39:50 – Variability and resilience 48:26 – Developing youth athletes 57:41 – Decision-making under fatigue 1:06:10 – Simplifying training programs 1:14:22 – Long term coaching philosophy Actionable Takeaways 6:42 – Learning through experimentation builds better coaches and athletes. Early coaching growth often comes from trying ideas, observing outcomes, and refining approaches. Allow room for trial and error in training rather than locking into rigid systems too early. Encourage athletes to feel and explore movement solutions instead of chasing perfect reps. Reflection after sessions helps clarify what actually transferred versus what just looked good. 13:55 – Movement quality creates the foundation for sustainable performance. Chasing outputs too early can hide inefficient movement strategies. Build positions, shapes, and rhythm before emphasizing max speed or max load. Use submaximal work to groove coordination and reduce compensation patterns. Improved movement quality often raises outputs without directly training them. 21:18 – Constraints guide learning better than constant verbal correction. Design drills that naturally guide athletes toward desired solutions. Reduce cue overload by letting the task do the teaching. Constraints promote adaptability instead of dependency on coaching feedback. This approach scales well in team settings with limited coaching bandwidth. 30:07 – Strength training should support movement, not replace it. Choose lifts that reinforce postures and force directions seen in sport. Avoid chasing strength numbers that disrupt rhythm or coordination. Use strength work to enhance confidence and robustness, not fatigue accumulation. Strong athletes still need to move well under dynamic conditions. 39:50 – Variability is a key driver of resilience. Expose athletes to multiple movement patterns and speeds. Avoid over standardizing drills to the point of robotic execution. Small variations build adaptability without sacrificing intent. Resilient athletes tolerate change better during competition. 48:26 – Youth athletes need exposure, not specialization. Prioritize broad skill development over early performance metrics. Multiple sports and movement environments improve long term ceilings. Avoid labeling young athletes too early based on temporary traits. Early diversity reduces burnout and overuse issues. 57:41 – Decision-making matters when athletes are tired. Fatigue reveals movement habits and decision quality. Train cognition alongside physical outputs when appropriate. Simple competitive games expose real world decision challenges. Performance under fatigue reflects true readiness. 1:06:10 – Simple programs executed well outperform complex plans done poorly. Clarity improves athlete buy in and consistency. Fewer exercises done with intent beat bloated sessions. Complexity should serve adaptation, not ego. Great programs are easy to repeat and sustain. 1:14:22 – Long term development requires patience and perspective. Short term gains should not compromise future potential. Progress is rarely linear, especially in young athletes. Coaching success is measured in years, not weeks. Build athletes you would want to train again in five years. Quotes from Hayden “Good movement solves a lot of problems before strength ever enters the conversation.” “When you design the environment well, you do not need to talk nearly as much.” “Outputs are easy to measure, but they are not always the most important thing.” “Variability is not chaos. It is preparation.” “Athletes who only know one solution struggle when conditions change.” “Young athletes do not need more specialization, they need more experiences.” “Strength should support expression, not restrict it.” “Simple does not mean easy. It means intentional.” “Fatigue exposes habits, not flaws.” “The goal is not just better athletes, but athletes who last.” About Hayden Mitchell Hayden Mitchell, PhD is a sports performance coach, educator, and researcher whose work sits at the intersection of movement ecology, pedagogy, and human development. He has coached and taught across a wide range of settings, from youth and collegiate sport to military, adaptive populations, and general fitness, working with ages 4 to 90. Hayden holds a doctorate in Human Performance and Sport Pedagogy and focuses on how environment, values, and teaching behaviors shape learning, resilience, and performance. His work emphasizes play, rhythm, and self-actualization, helping coaches and athletes move beyond rigid systems toward practices that develop both performance capacity and the whole human being.

Today’s guest is Dustin Oranchuk, Ph.D. Dustin is a sport scientist focused on sprinting biomechanics, speed development, and force production. Known for blending research with practical coaching insight, his work explores how isometrics, elasticity, and coordination shape high-performance sprinting and athletic movement. Isometric training is one of the “original” forms of strength training, and in the modern day has become one of the most popular areas of discussion and training methodology. Although the practice has exploded, it often lacks an understanding of physiology of adaptation with various methods. In this episode, Dustin explores the evolving world of isometric training, including the origins of isometrics. We discuss differences between pushing and holding contractions, tendon and neural adaptations, and modern applications in performance, rehab, and longevity. The conversation also dives into eccentric quasi-isometrics (EQIs), motivation and measurement challenges, and how coaches can intelligently integrate isometrics alongside plyometrics and traditional strength work. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:11 – Strength Training Beginnings 5:38 – Evolution of Isometric Training 8:38 – Modern Applications of Isometrics 9:52 – Neural vs. Morphological Adaptations 15:45 – The Importance of Long Holds 19:42 – Combining Isometrics and Plyometrics 39:22 – Exploring Eccentric Quasi-Isometrics 47:10 – Periodization and Isometric Training 1:05:48 – Future Research Directions 1:13:00 – Closing Thoughts and Reflections Actionable Takeaways 5:38 Evolution of Isometric Training Overcoming isometrics originated as a way to target sticking points with high force. Early isometric systems emphasized position specific strength over movement. Modern usage has expanded beyond barbell sports into rehab and longevity. 8:38 Modern Applications of Isometrics Isometrics are now widely used to “own positions” across joint angles. Longer duration holds are frequently used for tissue health and rehab. Training intent has shifted from peak strength toward durability and resilience. 9:52 Neural vs. Morphological Adaptations Short range, position specific isometrics bias neural intent and coordination. Long muscle length isometrics bias hypertrophy and tendon adaptation. Choose isometric type based on whether the goal is performance transfer or tissue change. 15:45 The Importance of Long Holds Tendons require relatively high intensity to meaningfully adapt. Long holds help reveal side to side asymmetries and control deficits. Extended holds build tolerance and confidence in vulnerable joint positions. 19:42 Combining Isometrics and Plyometrics Pairing isometrics and plyometrics can produce modest additive benefits. Combining methods may reduce fatigue compared to doing each alone. The interaction may enhance effort quality rather than purely physiological output. 39:22 Exploring Eccentric Quasi Isometrics EQIs combine a maximal hold followed by forced eccentric lengthening. They accumulate large time under tension and eccentric impulse. EQIs are powerful but mentally taxing and difficult to sustain long term. 47:10 Periodization and Isometric Training Use longer, lower intensity holds earlier in the offseason. Progress toward shorter, higher intensity, position specific isometrics near competition. Post game isometrics can support recovery without additional joint stress. 1:05:48 Future Research Directions Measurement technology has driven the resurgence of isometrics. Push versus hold distinctions are becoming a key research focus. Future work aims to clarify muscle and tendon behavior during isometric intent. 1:13:00 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Consistency with foundational exercises drives long term progress. Isometrics are tools, not replacements for dynamic training. Coaches should match the method to the goal, not the trend. Quotes from Dustin Oranchuk “Tendons tend to need a certain threshold of intensity to get meaningful adaptations.” “The maximal amount of force you can push is almost always more than what you can hold.” “Isometrics let you own positions rather than just pass through them.” “Long holds are a great diagnostic tool for finding asymmetries.” “EQIs are effective, but they are very hard to push hard and regularly.” “Use the best tool for the job rather than trying to blend everything together.” “Consistency beats constantly reinventing your training approach.” “Isometrics compress joint motion so other systems can recover and adapt.” “Intent matters just as much as the muscle action itself.” “You do not need complexity to get strong adaptations over time.” About Dustin Oranchuk Dustin Oranchuk, PhD, is a sport scientist specializing in speed development, biomechanics, and force production in sprinting and jumping. He holds a doctorate in sport science and has worked extensively with elite athletes across track and field, team sports, and high-performance environments. Dustin is widely known for his research-informed yet practical approach to sprint mechanics, isometric training, and elastic performance, bridging laboratory insights with real-world coaching application. Through consulting, research, and education, he helps coaches and athletes better understand how force, stiffness, and coordination influence maximal speed and performance.

Today’s guest is Kevin Secours. Kevin is a veteran martial arts coach, author, and former security professional with decades of experience across Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, and Russian Systema. Holding five black belts (including an 8th-dan), Kevin has worked extensively in real-world contexts while also teaching meditation, solo training, and strength rituals. He is the author of Rituals of Strength and Unconstrained, and is known for blending martial tradition, modern training theory, psychology, and philosophical inquiry into human development and resilience The conditioning and tempering of the body in striking sports can draw interesting parallels to collisions needed in jumping, sprinting and landing activities. We can also draw many lessons and ideas from the exercise tradition that goes back centuries with martial arts practice. By understanding combat training disciplines, we can draw out universal application for general movement and performance. In this episode, we explore the deeper purpose of physical training through martial arts and sport performance. Kevin reflects on early experiences with body hardening, cold exposure, and Zen-influenced practice, examining where such methods build resilience and where they become self-destructive. Drawing parallels to sprinting, jumping, and strength training, we discuss collisions, long isometric holds, ritualized discomfort, and fatigue as tools for cultivating awareness, reducing excess tension, and supporting longevity. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 – Martial arts origins and body hardening 17:48 – Body tension, trauma, and reading the athlete 28:23 – Isometrics, Soviet methods, and slow strength 33:58 – Journaling, drawing, and learning through reflection 45:02 – Mindset, adaptability, and mental speed 56:46 – Representativeness, ritual, and resilience 1:04:26 – Simplify versus deconstruct in training 1:12:25 – Microdosing discomfort and daily resilience 1:17:24 – Comfort seeking and modern training challenges Actionable Takeaways Martial arts origins and body hardening Extreme methods can build toughness, but unchecked intensity shortens longevity. Training should serve health and preparedness, not destroy the body you are trying to protect. Exposure must be progressive and intentional, not reckless. Body tension, trauma, and reading the athlete Chronic tension often reflects psychological history, not just physical limitations. Coaches should first understand an athlete’s motive for training. Creating a safe and inclusive environment allows tension to unwind. Exhaustion can reveal new movement options and reduce overthinking. Isometrics, Soviet methods, and slow strength Long isometric holds build physical strength and mental resilience. Slow strength exposes weak links that fast movement can hide. Discomfort creates space for reflection and adaptability. Training methods were shaped by harsher living conditions and necessity. Journaling, drawing, and learning through reflection Writing and sketching reinforce learning more deeply than words alone. Stick figures and simple drawings improve memory and understanding. Documentation is a form of legacy and long term learning. Mindset, adaptability, and mental speed Adaptability in movement reflects adaptability in thinking. Exposure to opposing viewpoints builds cognitive flexibility. Speed is as much mental as it is physical. Ego and rigid beliefs limit learning and performance. Representativeness, ritual, and resilience Not all training must look like competition to have value. Ritual builds consistency and meaning in training. Resilience is a universal quality that transfers across contexts. Training should include experiences where the athlete loses and adapts. Simplify versus deconstruct in training Simplify first to preserve the integrity of the whole movement. Deconstruct only when specific limitations appear. Always return to full movement patterns after isolation. End sessions with success to reinforce confidence. Microdosing discomfort and daily resilience Small daily challenges build long term mental toughness. Discomfort activates the neural centers tied to willpower. Ritualized discomfort is more effective than occasional extremes. Resilience can be trained deliberately and safely. Comfort seeking and modern training challenges Humans naturally seek comfort when it is available. Modern environments require intentional exposure to challenge. Training should balance safety, stress, and adaptability. Long term growth comes from controlled adversity, not avoidance. Quotes from Kevin Secours “Motive matters more than method. The why has to be bigger than the how.” “Repetition does not make perfect. You can be perfectly bad at something.” “Every technique is like a snowflake. No two are the same.” “Resilience is the most universal commodity you have.” “The greatest relaxation comes from exhaustion.” “Training should not be trauma.” “If you quit midway, you are more likely to come back.” “We are comfort seekers.” About Kevin Secours Kevin Secours is a martial arts coach and author focused on practical skill development, resilience, and real-world application of movement and combat principles. Drawing from decades of training and coaching experience, his work bridges traditional martial arts, modern performance thinking, and personal development. Kevin is known for clear teaching, depth of insight, and an emphasis on adaptability, awareness, and lifelong practice.

Today’s guest is Quintin Torres, a strength and performance coach specializing in Marinovich/Heus inspired training methods. With a background in martial arts, Quintin focuses on movement quality, coordination, and individualized methods that help athletes build strength that truly transfers to sport. So often in athletic development, it is only the “hard” or easily quantifiable qualities that we look to develop. Although these are vital, sport itself (even output sports) live “in between the cracks” of maximal outputs, and then movement quality. Training rarely looks to infuse a full spectrum of athletic qualities, yet programming such as that put forth by Marv Marinovich years ago, does capture many of these dynamics. On today’s show, Quintin and I explore the Marinovich nervous system training philosophy, contrasting “soft” qualities like reactivity, rhythm, coordination, and perception with traditional hard metrics such as max strength. We discuss why MMA has embraced these methods, the limits of barbell-centric programming, and the importance of observation, experimentation, and individualized coaching. The conversation emphasizes training transfer to sport, creativity, and maintaining athlete adaptability, longevity, and engagement beyond chasing isolated numbers. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and the Just Fly Sports Online Courses Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer Use code “justfly20” for 20% off of LILA Exogen Wearable resistance gear at www.lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 – Quintin’s background and entry into nervous system training 6:18 – Why Marinovich methods resonate in MMA 10:04 – Soft qualities versus hard qualities in performance 16:11 – Assessment driven training and athlete context 27:05 – One on one coaching versus group models 31:41 – Training quality, group size, and real world constraints 40:12 – Foot strength, barefoot work, and bottom up thinking 1:13:09 – Strength without compression and alternative tools 1:25:55 – Manual resistance and simple coaching tools 1:27:41 – Teaching, sharing, and coaching philosophy Actionable Takeaways Nervous system training priorities Train soft qualities like rhythm, timing, coordination, and fluidity with the same intent as maximal strength. Recognize that many performance qualities cannot be easily measured, but still decide outcomes in sport. Do not confuse testing well in the weight room with performing well in competition. Why MMA accelerates innovation High consequences in MMA force athletes and coaches to evaluate training effectiveness honestly. One on one competition allows clearer cause and effect between training and performance. Customization is easier when the athlete’s output is fully visible and isolated. Assessment over templates Let observable movement qualities guide training choices rather than fixed programs. Consider genetic tendencies such as stiffness, elasticity, and coordination when designing training. Adjust tools and methods to the athlete instead of forcing athletes into a system. Soft and hard qualities integration Maximal strength still matters, but it should not destroy elasticity or coordination. Avoid becoming overly concentric dominant and losing reactive qualities. Balance force production with tendon health and nervous system adaptability. Group training realities Large group settings limit how much individual correction is possible. Use simple movements and constraints when training many athletes at once. Accept logistical realities while still trying to preserve movement quality. Foot and ground based training Treat the foot as a strong and adaptable structure, not a fragile one. Use harder surfaces and direct loading to stimulate neural input from the ground up. Understand that the feet heavily influence the nervous system and movement outcomes. Alternative strength tools Use flywheels, isokinetic tools, and manual resistance to reduce compressive stress. Achieve high neural drive without excessive spinal loading. Match resistance dynamically to the athlete’s output. Manual resistance and coaching feel Hands and simple tools can outperform expensive machines in many cases. Manual resistance allows precise matching of effort and intent. Coaching feel and feedback are critical skills, not outdated practices. Quotes from Quintin Torres “The primary difference is we prioritize the development of soft qualities just as much as hard qualities.” “We do not need you better at training. We need you better at your sport.” “Barbell does not equal maximal strength. It is just one tool on the force velocity curve.” “As the quantity of athletes goes down, the quality of training can go up.” “Your feet are not fragile. They are designed to take abuse.” “There is no strength machine better than your own hands.” “A lot of what people call talent is just qualities we do not know how to measure yet.” “Results matter more when the consequences are real.” About Quintin Torres Quintin Torres is a strength and performance coach with a deep background in mixed martial arts and combat sports. A former competitive MMA athlete, he specializes in nervous system–driven training methods influenced by the Marinovich system, emphasizing reactivity, coordination, and movement quality alongside strength. Quintin works closely with fighters and athletes to individualize training based on biomechanics, perception, and sport demands, helping them build resilient, adaptable performance that transfers directly to competition.

Today’s podcast is a solo episode on keys to athletic longevity and ability. This isn’t just a “stay strong as you age” show, but rather, speaks to principles of comprehensive embodiment of the movement and strength training process. Here I break down 10 core principles for true athletic longevity; physically, mentally, and creatively. Drawing from decades of coaching, training, and personal evolution, I explore why mastery of bodyweight skills, seasonal training rhythms, and “doing more with less” are essential as athletes age. I dive into the power of games, community, mythos, and ritual in keeping training joyful and sustainable, and explain how reflection, visualization, and a generalist mindset unlock deeper layers of performance. Whether you’re 18 or 68, I share a roadmap for staying explosive, engaged, and young at heart; so your training stops feeling like an obligation and starts feeling like an adventure again. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) 0:03 - Introduction to Athletic Longevity 1:09 - Mastery of Bodyweight Strength 7:15 - Doing More with Less 14:48 - Beyond Output: The Joy of Training 33:28 - Working with the Seasons 41:15 - Community and Gameplay 43:04 - The Mythos of Training 54:06 - Reflective Practices for Growth 1:02:29 - Staying Young at Heart 1:05:21 - Conclusion and Training Opportunities Actionable Takeaways 0:03 – Introduction to Athletic Longevity You do not need elite performance goals to train like an athlete. Longevity principles apply to everyone. Frame training around sustaining abilities for life, not constantly chasing output. Use seasons of high intent and seasons of exploration to keep the body adaptable. 1:09 – Mastery of Bodyweight Strength Build a foundation through movements like single leg squats, pull-ups, handstands, and climbs. Treat bodyweight strength as both athleticism and self-care. Create challenges that force coordination, tension control, and awareness rather than raw force. Mastery comes from slow, deliberate practice, not grinding reps. 7:15 – Doing More with Less Minimal equipment forces the nervous system to solve problems instead of relying on machinery. Use odd objects, rocks, or simple setups to create organic strength tasks. The fewer the tools, the more your body must coordinate pathways and recruit fibers intuitively. Minimalism creates long term durability because it reduces stiffness from repetitive patterns. 14:48 – Beyond Output: The Joy of Training Training becomes richer when you stop chasing numbers and start chasing satisfaction. Explore environments that give you novelty, challenge, and a sense of discovery. Use activities like bouldering, trail running, or skill based strength tasks to reconnect with intrinsic motivation. Joy improves longevity by making training sustainable, not obligatory. 33:28 – Working with the Seasons Rotate training priorities with the seasons to avoid stagnation. Winter may prioritize hill sprints, rock climbing, or foundational strength. Summer may lean into elastic qualities, sprinting, and outdoor challenges. Seasonal shifts satisfy both psychology and physiology by adding rhythm to training. 41:15 – Community and Gameplay Seek out communities that support physical play: climbing gyms, pickup sports, outdoor groups. Games create natural variability and spontaneity that cannot be replicated in a weight room. Being around others elevates energy and brings back the competitive spark. Gameplay keeps you young because it connects challenge, emotion, and movement. 43:04 – The Mythos of Training Build a personal mythology around your process to make training more meaningful. Rituals, environments, and narratives help you commit long term. Your system does not need to be rigid to be powerful. It needs to resonate. Treat training as an evolving story rather than a strict set of prescriptions. 54:06 – Reflective Practices for Growth Use journaling, quiet walks, or cooldown reflection to understand how training is shaping you. Reflection strengthens the connection between intuition and programming. Regular evaluation prevents burnout because it keeps training aligned with who you are becoming. Know when a method has run its course so you can adapt before stagnation. 1:02:29 – Staying Young at Heart Regularly expose yourself to novelty to maintain athletic qualities and curiosity. Choose activities that make you laugh, struggle, or fail safely. Maintain low level sprinting and jumping year round to keep elasticity from fading. Staying youthful is a mindset supported by movement variety. 1:05:21 – Conclusion and Training Opportunities Mix structured training with open-ended exploration to become resilient. Create programs that align with your interests, not just performance metrics. Longevity is built from sustainable rhythms, not all out cycles. Choose training communities and methods that help you stay inspired. Quotes from Joel “Longevity is not about chasing numbers. It is about staying able.” “Minimalism forces your body to become smarter instead of stiffer.” “When you stop obsessing over the output, you rediscover the joy of the process.” “If you follow the seasons, your training stays fresh and your body stays adaptable.” “Gameplay brings out movement qualities you cannot coach in the weight room.” “Your training story matters. It keeps you showing up long after the numbers stop improving.” “Reflection is the anchor that keeps your training aligned with who you are becoming.” “Staying young at heart is as much a training strategy as it is a mindset.” About Joel Smith Joel Smith is the founder of Just Fly Sports, a leading education platform in speed, power, and human movement. A former NCAA Division I strength coach with over a decade of collegiate experience, Joel has trained athletes ranging from high school standouts to Olympians. He hosts the Just Fly Performance Podcast, one of the top shows in the sports performance field, and is the author of multiple books on athletic development. Known for blending biomechanics, skill acquisition, and creative coaching methods, Joel helps athletes and coaches unlock higher performance through elastic strength, movement literacy, and holistic training principles.

Today’s guest is Dr. Jarod Burton. Jarod is a chiropractor and sports performance coach focused on neurology-driven movement. He blends manual therapy, strength modailities, and nervous system training to unlock better mechanics and athletic output. His work centers on identifying and clearing the neural limits that hold athletes back. In training, there are many layers to human performance and athletic outputs. One critical layer is the power transmission of the nervous system, and how to unlock this ability in all athletes. Many athletes naturally have a more adept system, while others may need more bridges to reach their highest levels of performance. In this episode, Jarod speaks on how his approach has evolved since entering clinical practice. He shares how he uses flywheel training to teach rhythm, “the dance” of force, and powerful catches rather than just concentric effort. He and Joel dig into spinal mobility, ribcage expansion, and even breakdance-style spinal waves as underrated keys to athletic freedom. Jarod then simplifies neurology for coaches, explaining how posture reveals brain-side imbalances and how targeted “fast stretch” work, loud/sticky altitude drops, and intelligently high training volumes can rebalance the system and unlock performance. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 - Jarod’s background and early coaching lens6:55 - Internal vs external focus and simple cues13:40 - What good movement feels like20:10 - Speed shapes and improving posture29:18 - Blending strength with elastic qualities41:02 - Breathing mechanics and better movement options52:37 - Pelvis function and creating better positions1:00:15 - Skill acquisition and training that sticks1:11:48 - Programming principles and individual needs1:19:40 - Coaching philosophy and athlete communication Actionable Takeaways 0:00 – Jarod’s background, influences, and early coaching lens Jarod draws heavily on mentors in track and field, particularly their ability to teach posture, projection, and simple shapes. He notes that he used to overcoach mechanics and learned that athletes need experiences, not micromanagement. Emphasize principles over preferences. As Jarod says, “If I can teach the principles, the application can change.” 6:55 – Internal versus external focus and simple cues that work Jarod prefers cues that help athletes feel positions instead of thinking about them. He explains that internal cues can work when used to create awareness, but they cannot dominate the session. Use cues that point the athlete toward an outcome. For example, he prefers “push the ground away” instead of detailed joint instructions. 13:40 – What good movement feels like and the problem with forcing technique Jarod warns that coaches often chase “pretty” movement at the cost of effective movement. Technique should emerge from intention, not the other way around. He encourages coaches to give athletes tasks that naturally produce the shapes they want. If an athlete is struggling, simplify the environment rather than stack more verbal instructions. 20:10 – Speed development, posture, and improving shapes without overcoaching Jarod explains that acceleration improves when athletes learn to project rather than lift. Upright running quality comes from rhythm and relaxation, not from forcing tall mechanics. He recommends using contrast tasks to improve posture, such as wall drills combined with short accelerations. Let the environment teach the athlete and save verbal coaching for key errors only. 29:18 – Blending strength training with elastic qualities Jarod sees weight room work as support, not the driver, of speed and skill. He focuses on the elastic properties of tendons and connective tissue for speed athletes. He notes that heavy lifting can coexist with stiffness and elasticity if programmed strategically rather than constantly chased. Use low amplitude hops, bounds, and rhythm-based plyos to balance the traditional strength program. 41:02 – Breathing, ribcage mechanics, and natural movement options Jarod uses breathing work to help athletes find positions that allow better rotation and force transfer. He explains that tight ribcages limit athletic expression, not just breathing capacity. Many athletes struggle with rotation due to rigid breathing patterns, not lack of strength. Use breathing resets before high-speed work to create better movement “access.” 52:37 – Understanding the athletic pelvis and creating better positions Jarod emphasizes that pelvic orientation shapes nearly every aspect of movement. He encourages developing a pelvis that can both yield and create force, instead of being locked in extension or tucked under. Simple low-level movements like hip shifts, step-ups, and gait-primer patterns can transform sprint positions. Train the pelvis in motion, not just through isolated exercises. 1:00:15 – Skill acquisition, variability, and choosing training that sticks Jarod believes athletes need movement options and adaptability, not one perfect model. Variability builds resilience and skill transfer. Too much rigidity in training creates athletes who cannot adapt to chaotic sport environments. Coaches should create tasks that allow athletes to explore rather than follow rigid repetitions. 1:11:48 – Programming principles and adjusting training to the individual Jarod adjusts cycles based on athlete readiness rather than fixed rules. He focuses on how athletes respond to stress rather than the stress itself. Training should follow the athlete’s progression of competence and confidence, not arbitrary timelines. He prefers a flexible structure where principles guide but the athlete determines the pace. 1:19:40 – Coaching philosophy, communication, and what athletes need Jarod highlights that coaching is not about showing off knowledge but helping someone move better. He builds trust through communication and clarity rather than overwhelming athletes with science. He believes athletes need environments that reward curiosity and creativity. The coach creates the environment, but the athlete creates the movement. Jarod Burton Quotes “If I can teach the principle, the application can change, and the athlete can adapt.” “Good movement should feel rhythmic and natural, not forced.” “The environment will teach the athlete faster than a paragraph of cues.” “When an athlete stops trying to make the movement pretty, it usually starts to become pretty.” “The weight room supports speed. It should not compete with speed.” “Breathing gives athletes access to positions they did not know they had.” “Adaptable athletes win. Rigid athletes break.” “Coaching is about creating options for the athlete, not limiting them.” “I want athletes who can solve problems, not just follow instructions.” “Trust comes from communication, not complexity.” About Jarod Burton Dr. Jarod Burton is a chiropractor and sports performance coach who lives in the intersection of clinical practice, neuroscience, and high-performance human movement. A student of neurology and motor learning, Jarod works to uncover the hidden nervous system constraints that influence posture, coordination, elasticity, and power expression in sport. His methods combine manual therapy, joint mapping, sensory integration, and movement-based diagnostics to create individualized solutions that free up range, recalibrate neural rhythm, and unlock athletic speed, strength, and resilience. Jarod is passionate about a holistic philosophy of performance; one where the brain, body, and environment work in concert to reveal the best version of the athlete.

Today’s guest is Reinis Krēgers, a former champion decathlete turned track and physical education coach. Reinis is dedicated to building complete movers: fast, coordinated, confident athletes who understand their bodies. His training blends classical sprint development with exploratory tasks, helping athletes develop physical literacy and long-term adaptability. In sports performance, we often fixate on exercises, cues, and optimizing micro-qualities in the moment. What we discuss far less, yet what often separates the elite, is the role of play, creativity, and culture. By looking closely at events like the pole vault and hurdles, we can see how a developmental, curiosity-driven approach benefits athletes of every sport. In this episode, Reinis shares the remarkable story of losing a finger, training exclusively with his non-dominant hand, and still setting a shot put PR. This opens the door to a rich discussion on cross-education, novelty, and how the brain actually learns movement. We explore play-based coaching, pole vault as a developmental super-tool, contrasts between Eastern and American coaching philosophies, youth sport creativity, and sustainable tendon development. It’s a conversation full of insight, storytelling, and reminders of what truly anchors a lifelong athletic journey: curiosity, joy, and the art of falling in love with movement. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and LILA Exogen wearable resistance. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) 0:00 – Early upbringing in Latvia and falling in love with movement 6:18 – Play, curiosity, and environment driven athlete development 14:50 – Injuries, setbacks, and choosing to continue competing 23:40 – Czech training experience and constraints based coaching 33:05 – European versus American development and long term athlete philosophy 45:10 – Games, novelty, and bringing play back into training 59:47 – Specialization mistakes and the importance of multi sport development 1:11:48 – Plyometrics, bounding, and gradual tissue adaptation 1:22:40 – Injury lessons, tendon health, and the value of long term gradual loading Actionable Takeaways 6:18 – Play, curiosity, and environment driven development Reinis explains that his athletic foundation came from unstructured exploration, not early specialization. Let athletes solve problems rather than repeat fixed patterns. Encourage outdoor play and varied surfaces to build natural coordination. Curiosity creates better movers than rigid instruction. 14:50 – Navigating injuries and staying in the sport Reinis shares how setbacks led him to rethink training instead of quitting. Use injuries as a signal to adjust training rather than push through blindly. Keep a competitive outlet during rehab to maintain identity and motivation. Return with smarter progression instead of trying to reclaim old numbers immediately. 23:40 – Constraints based learning from Czech training Reinis describes how training environments shaped movement without heavy cueing. Change the environment before changing the athlete. Use simple tasks and small boundaries to create automatic technical improvements. Let athletes feel solutions instead of chasing perfect positions. 33:05 – European versus American development Reinis contrasts long term models focused on movement quality rather than short term output. Early years should build durability, not just speed and strength metrics. Avoid rushing physical qualities before coordination and play are established. Development is a process of layering, not skipping steps. 45:10 – Bringing games and novelty back into training Reinis highlights how playful constraints improve responsiveness and decision making. Add game based movement to keep athletes adaptive under changing conditions. Use novelty sparingly to reawaken coordination and intent. Reduce scripted drills when athletes stop learning from them. 59:47 – Multi sport value and avoiding early specialization Reinis explains why single sport paths can limit long term performance. Multiple sports expand movement bandwidth and reduce overuse. Delay specialization until athletes have broad coordination skills. Early success does not guarantee long term development. 1:11:48 – Plyometrics and gradual tissue progression Reinis stresses that bounding and plyos require patience and slow tissue adaptation. Progress volume and intensity over seasons, not weeks. Start with low amplitude contacts before higher velocity work. Tendons adapt slower than muscles, so loading must reflect that timeline. 1:22:40 – Tendon health and long term loading approach Reinis shares what he learned from repeated injury cycles. Small, consistent loading beats aggressive spikes in volume. Build tolerance through frequency and controlled exposure. The goal is to stay in the game long enough for development to compound. Quotes from Reinis Krēgers "Good coaching has some mystery because we are not robots" "Kids should fall in love with the movement and the sport before anything else" "Constraints are the key word in my training method and philosophy" "Track and field without play is a dry and bad solution for long term success" "There is no such thing as a training methodology, it is the relationship between the coach and the athlete" "Sudden increases in load were always the trigger for my Achilles problems" "You want gradual and consistent work if you want the tissues to adapt" "Sleep enough and rest after good training, that is one of the most important things I tell young athletes" About Reinis Krēgers Reinis Krēgers is a Latvian track and physical preparation coach known for blending classical sprint mechanics with modern movement ecology. With a background in athletics and physical education, Reinis has built a reputation for developing athletes who are not only fast, but exceptionally coordinated, elastic, and adaptable across environments. Drawing from European sprint traditions, plyometric culture, and cutting-edge motor-learning principles, Reinis emphasizes rhythm, posture, and natural force expression before “numbers.” His training sessions regularly weave together technical sprint development, multi-planar strength, and exploratory movement tasks, giving athletes the bandwidth to become resilient movers rather than rigid specialists. Reinis works across youth, club, and competitive settings, helping sprinters, jumpers, and team-sport athletes gain speed, power, and physical literacy. His coaching is marked by clarity, intentionality, and an ability to meet athletes where they are, building them from foundational movement quality toward high-performance execution. Whether on the track or in the PE hall, Reinis’ mission is the same: develop confident, capable movers who understand their bodies, enjoy the process, and carry a lifelong relationship with athleticism.

Today’s guest is Austin Jochum. Austin Jochum is the founder of Jochum Strength, a former All-Conference safety turned performance coach known for playful, movement-rich training. He blends strength, speed, and adaptability to help athletes build real-world capability and enjoy the process. So often, coaches inadvertently play by the formal “rules” of coaching, through substantial instruction, within smaller boxes of training. Gameplay and sport itself are the ultimate example of task-based stimulation, chaos, and problem-solving, and the more we learn from it, the more effective our training can become. In this episode, Austin Jochum and I explore how coaching transforms when you trade rigid cues for play, stimulus, and athlete-driven learning. We dig into why intent and novelty matter, how to “win the day” without chasing constant PRs, and the power of environments that let athletes self-organize. Austin speaks on his recent dive into improving his Olympic lifting, and subsequent improvement in explosive athletic power, along with the masculine and feminine nature of the snatch and clean and jerk, respectively. Finally, Austin also breaks down the JST Olympics—his team-based approach that’s exploding motivation, competition, and performance in the gym. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and LILA Exogen wearable resistance. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) 0:00 – Austin’s background, wrestling influence, and early training lens 8:12 – How wrestling shaped his coaching, problem-solving, and creativity 14:30 – Working with movement constraints, unpredictability, and the “maze” idea 22:40 – Why he prioritizes exploration over instruction 31:18 – Building athletic bandwidth through games and environmental design 38:01 – Touch on wrestling in training and contact-oriented movement 45:10 – Heavy rope training, rhythm, and full-body sequencing 52:46 – Hiring coaches and building culture inside his gym 1:01:37 – Athlete intuitiveness, imitation, and imitation-driven learning 1:10:55 – Recovery methods, cold exposure, and principles behind them 1:18:42 – Breathing mechanics, sensory awareness, and relaxation 1:24:52 – Tempo, rhythm, and “feel” in athletic movement 1:30:48 – Coaching philosophy and where Austin is heading next Actionable Takeaways 8:12 – Use problem-solving sports to shape athletic intelligence Wrestling taught Austin to read bodies, adapt instantly, and explore solutions without external cues. Add low-level grappling or tagging games to build instinctive reaction. Favor tasks where athletes solve problems on their own rather than through constant cueing. Let athletes “feel” leverage, pressure, and timing instead of explaining it. 14:30 – Build constraints that shape behavior instead of commanding technique Austin’s “maze” concept uses environment and rules to funnel athletes into better movement patterns. Use boundaries, footwork boxes, or timing rules to nudge athletes into desired solutions. Ask “what would make the athlete naturally move better?” instead of “how do I cue it?” Encourage unpredictable tasks that force athletes to explore and adapt. 22:40 – Exploration outperforms instruction for long-term development Austin finds that athletes learn faster when they discover solutions. Give them space to experiment before layering instruction. Adjust one variable at a time and let athletes reorganize around it. Use questions (“What did you feel? What would you try next?”) to guide reflection. 31:18 – Games expand movement bandwidth Austin uses play-based drills to build coordination, elasticity, and adaptability. Rotate games: tag, dodgeball variations, reactive pursuit, to challenge perception-action loops. Use small-sided tasks to increase decision density without overthinking. Keep the focus on fun: fun increases intent and frees up movement quality. 38:01 – Use wrestling-inspired drills for strength without rigidity Wrestling movements gave Austin strong connective tissue without bulky lifting. Use partner-resistance tasks for whole-body strength and tension awareness. Build isometrics out of wrestling positions for joint integrity. Allow controlled chaos; body contact builds stabilizing capacity. 45:10 – Heavy rope work for rhythm, sequencing, and tissue tolerance Austin relies on heavy rope patterns for global coordination. Use ropes to sync hands, feet, hips, and breath. Program flowing, continuous patterns to teach timing and smooth force transfer. Start with simple rhythms, then build patterns that cross midline. 52:46 – Culture and community determine training success Austin emphasizes hiring people who share curiosity and a growth mindset. Build environments where coaches model exploration, not perfection. Encourage shared training, shared learning, and open dialogue. Make the gym a place where athletes feel safe to try new things. 1:01:37 – Encourage imitation and athlete-led learning Austin sees imitation as a primary learning driver. Let athletes watch each other and imitate good movers. Create partner structures where athletes observe and mirror. Limit over-coaching so imitation can self-organize movement. 1:10:55 – Use recovery tools to teach regulation, not toughness Cold exposure and breathing work are about awareness and control. Focus on downregulation, not chasing extreme discomfort. Teach athletes how to relax under stress through controlled exposures. Keep recovery practices consistent and simple. 1:18:42 – Breathing for awareness and movement refinement Austin uses breath as a sensory anchor for better movement feel. Teach nasal breathing during warmups to increase internal awareness. Pair breath with movement tasks to improve timing and relaxation. Explore slow breathing to reduce unnecessary tension. 1:24:52 – Rhythm and tempo drive better movement than force Austin believes rhythm is the “glue” of athleticism. Use music, metronomes, or rhythmic cues to build flow. Train movements at different tempos to expand adaptability. Emphasize smoothness over force output when teaching skills. 1:30:48 – Stay curious and evolve your practice Austin’s philosophy centers around lifelong learning. Revisit old drills with new perspectives. Explore different disciplines (dance, wrestling, martial arts). Let your own training experiment inform your coaching. Quotes from Austin Jochum “Wrestling taught me to solve problems in real time. You can’t fake instinct in that environment.” “When you build the right constraint, you don’t have to coach as much. The environment does the teaching.” “Exploration gives athletes ownership. They learn the lesson at a deeper level.” “Games create bandwidth. The more options you give the athlete, the more adaptable they become.” “Wrestling positions gave me strength that the weight room couldn’t.” “Ropes taught me rhythm and timing. They connect the whole body.” “Culture is the system. If the environment is right, the training takes care of itself.” “I want athletes to imitate great movement, not memorize cues.” “Cold exposure isn’t toughness. It’s learning how to regulate yourself under stress.” “Breathing is awareness. It gives you access to better movement.” “Rhythm is the missing piece in performance. Smooth beats strong.” “The more curious I am, the better my athletes get.” About Austin Jochum Austin Jochum is the founder of Jochum Strength, a performance coach known for blending old-school grit with modern movement science. A former University of St. Thomas football player and All-Conference safety, Austin built his philosophy around “training the human first,” emphasizing play, adaptability, and athletic expression over rigid templates. His coaching blends strength, speed, breathwork, and movement variability, creating athletes who are not just powerful—but resilient and skillful in chaotic environments. Through his in-person gym in Minnesota, online programs, and the Jochum Strength Podcast, Austin has become a leading voice in community-driven athletic development, helping athletes and everyday movers reconnect with their bodies, build real-world ability, and enjoy the process.

Today’s guest is Bill Smart. Bill is a sport scientist and physical preparation coach specializing in elite fight-sports performance. As the founder of Smarter Performance and the Strength & Conditioning lead for the CORE MMA team, Bill integrates cutting-edge evidence with real-world high-performance systems to enable combat athletes to show up on fight day in optimal physiological condition. Much of the conversation in sports performance hinges on speed and power development, or conditioning, as a stand-alone conversation. Sport itself is dynamic and combines elements of speed, strength, and endurance in a dynamic space. Training should follow the same considerations to be truly alive and effective. In the episode, Bill shares his journey from cycling and rowing to combat sports. He discusses how long isometric holds develop both physical and mental resilience, and their implementation in his programming. The conversation dives into muscle-oxygen dynamics, integrating ISOs with conditioning, and how testing shapes his approach. Bill also explores flywheel eccentrics, fascicle-length development, and why sprinting is a key element for maintaining elastic power in elite fighters. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and the Just Fly Sports Online Courses 30-50% off all courses until December 1, 2025. (https://justflysports.thinkific.com) Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer Use code “justfly20” for 20% off of LILA Exogen Wearable resistance gear at www.lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 – Bill’s coaching journey and early mentors 6:04 – The importance of movement observation and intuition 11:35 – Why athletes plateau and how to identify limiting factors 20:42 – Strength training principles that actually transfer 30:01 – Using movement variability and play in training 40:36 – Coaching communication and creating connection 52:09 – The role of curiosity and creativity in coaching longevity 1:00:55 – Key lessons from years of coaching experience Actionable Takeaways 6:04 – Movement observation and intuition Bill emphasizes that the best coaches develop a trained eye for movement by observing, not just testing. Watch athletes move in multiple contexts before prescribing anything. Look for how they transition between patterns, not only the end positions. Use video less for judgment and more for curiosity. What is the athlete trying to do? 11:35 – Identifying limiting factors Athletes plateau when coaches overemphasize one metric or capacity while ignoring the real constraint. Look beyond the weight room; technical or psychological factors often drive plateaus. Use minimal testing data to narrow focus rather than justify complexity. Sometimes the limiting factor is overcoaching. Let athletes fail and self-correct. 20:42 – Strength that transfers Transfer happens when strength work complements, not competes with, the sport’s rhythm and intent. Prioritize strength that preserves elasticity and timing rather than just force output. Rotate exercises often enough to keep athletes adaptive, but not so often that they lose rhythm. Load movement patterns, not just muscles. Treat every lift as coordination under resistance. 30:01 – Variability and play in training Bill describes play as a teaching tool that restores creativity and problem-solving in athletes. Use small games, uneven surfaces, or timing constraints to build adaptable movers. Variability should be purposeful. Expand coordination bandwidth without losing technical intent. Schedule “uncoached” time in sessions where athletes explore movement freely. 40:36 – Coaching communication and connection Great coaching depends on trust and empathy before information transfer. Deliver feedback as collaboration, not correction; frame cues as shared problem-solving. Match your communication tone to the athlete's readiness and personality. Be consistent and calm under pressure; emotional stability is contagious. 52:09 – Curiosity and creativity for coaching longevity Curiosity keeps coaching sustainable; creativity prevents burnout. Study outside your lane: music, design, or art can refine pattern recognition. Avoid rigid “systems” that turn coaching into mechanical input-output. Revisit old training ideas with a new lens instead of constantly chasing novelty. 1:00:55 – Key lessons and philosophy Bill’s long-term perspective is about developing people, not just performers. Build a coaching environment where learning continues on both sides. Focus on long-term process rather than short-term validation. Great coaching is about alignment between words, actions, and values. Quotes from Bill Smart “Observation is the beginning of understanding movement. You can’t coach what you don’t actually see.” “If you only measure outputs, you’ll miss what’s driving them.” “Strength is coordination under resistance; not just how much you can move, but how well you move it.” “When training becomes too predictable, athletes stop learning.” “Variability isn’t chaos; it’s guided exploration.” “The best cues invite the athlete to think, not to obey.” “Play keeps creativity alive. You can’t teach adaptability if everything is scripted.” “Curiosity is what keeps good coaches from becoming stale.” “Connection has to come before correction.” “The longer I coach, the more I realize that athletes teach me just as much as I teach them.” About Bill Smart Bill Smart is a sport scientist and physical preparation coach specialising in elite fight-sports performance. As the founder of Smarter Performance and the Strength & Conditioning lead for the CORE MMA team, Bill integrates cutting-edge evidence with real-world high-performance systems to enable combat athletes to show up on fight day in optimal physiological condition.

Today’s guest is Sam Elsner. Sam is a former NCAA Division III national champion thrower turned motor learning writer and educator. He’s the author of The Play Advantage and creator of the Substack CALIBRATE, where he explores how humans learn movement through play, perception, and environment design. Sam brings a rare blend of elite athletic experience and deep skill-acquisition insight to help coaches and athletes move beyond drills toward true adaptability and creativity in sport. As athletic performance is largely driven by weight-lifting. It digs into maximal strength and force-related outcomes in such excess that all other elements of athleticism are negated. Skill learning and high velocity movement are the wellspring of sporting success. As such, having a balanced understanding of the training equation is critical for the long-term interest of the athlete. On today’s podcast, Sam and I dive into how athletes truly learn to move. Sam traces his journey from WIAC throws circles to Cal Dietz’s weight room, why a rigid “triphasic for everyone” phase backfired with a soccer team, and how ecological dynamics and a constraints-led lens reshaped his coaching. Together we unpack the strength–skill interplay, 1×20 “slow-cook” gains versus block periodization, the value of autonomous, creative training application. We touch on youth development, culture, and team ecology, plus where pros are experimenting with these ideas. This episode is loaded with both philosophy of training and skill learning, along with practical takeaways in program design. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 1:18 - Early training experiences and triphasic background 5:44 - Implementing triphasic as a young coach 11:22 - The failure of rigid block periodization 17:49 - Vertical integration and maintaining all qualities 24:58 - Discovery of the ecological dynamics lens 29:57 - Why skill learning changed his view of strength 35:43 - 1x20 as a slow cooking strength framework 43:15 - Autonomy and stance/position freedom in the weight room 52:38 - Culture, environment, and how athletes learn 1:00:43 - Highlight play examples and perception-action 1:14:23 - Constraint-led models in team sport settings 1:20:55 - Where to find Sam’s work Actionable Takeaways 5:44 - Learning from early programming mistakes Rigid triphasic blocks without speed and skill work led to slower, less adaptable athletes. Keep speed, power, and reactive work present year-round in some capacity. Avoid assuming what works for one context transfers straight across to another. 17:49 - Vertical integration instead of siloed periodization Train multiple physical qualities year-round with shifting emphasis rather than isolating one block at a time. This prevents athletes from losing speed while developing strength, or vice versa. Small doses across the year keep qualities alive and connected. 24:58 - Skill learning must reflect the chaos of sport Sport is unpredictable, not robotic. Training should reflect that uncertainty. Use varied environments, movement options, and constraints instead of perfect reps. Skill emerges from exploration, not memorization. 35:43 - 1x20 for strength that supports skill 1x20 builds strength while leaving room for sprinting, jumping, and skill work. The last few reps in a 1x20 set still hit high effort without excessive nervous system cost. Use stance and tempo variations to match individual structure. 43:15 - Autonomy inside the weight room Allow athletes to choose stance width, bar position, and grip style within a lift. This respects anatomical differences and promotes ownership. Autonomy increases buy-in and self-organization. 52:38 - Culture shapes movement outcomes The environment athletes train in determines how they move and learn. If culture only rewards load and intensity, adaptability is lost. Design environments that reward exploration and awareness, not just output. 1:00:43 - Highlight plays reflect attunement, not force Elite athletic feats arise from pattern recognition and perception-action coupling. You cannot coach highlight movement through force metrics alone. Create rich movement histories rather than perfecting single patterns. Quotes "Sport is chaotic and uncertain. If your training isn’t reflecting that, you’re training for something else." "Strength is only useful if you can actually express it in the environment that matters." "1x20 gave me room to train speed and jumping instead of spending all my adaptation on heavy lifting." "We lose athleticism when we isolate qualities instead of integrating them." "Autonomy in the weight room lets athletes organize movement in ways that fit their structure." "Block periodization made my athletes slower because they lost access to the other physical qualities." "Those highlight plays happen because the athlete is attuned to the information in the moment, not because they calculated force." "Environment determines behavior. The culture you’re in shapes how you train and how you move." "Skill is shaped by varied experiences, not perfect repetitions." "The goal is to keep qualities alive, not build one at the expense of another." About Sam Elsner Sam Elsner is a former NCAA Division III national champion thrower from the University of Wisconsin-Stout who has transitioned into a leading voice in motor learning and skill acquisition. A six-time All-American and 2018 discus champion, Sam brings a deep, first-hand understanding of performance and training into his current work, exploring how athletes truly learn movement rather than just repeat drills. Now writing the popular Substack CALIBRATE and authoring The Play Advantage, Sam bridges neuroscience, ecological dynamics, and lived athletic experience to help coaches and performers unlock adaptability, creativity, and “feel” in sport. His work reframes coaching from rote technique toward curiosity, environment design, and the art of human learning in motion.

Today’s guest is Ben Simons. Ben is a British performance coach and two-time Olympic bobsledder with a background in sprinting and sports science. A former World Cup gold medallist, he’s now focused on helping athletes develop speed, power, and coordination through evidence-based, real-world training methods. Ben blends biomechanics, motor learning, and nervous-system training to build explosive, adaptable athletes. Many speed training topics and conversations focus exclusively on the most stimulating possible methods; fewer get into individual factors, athlete adaptability, and how that speed and power training evolves with the needs of the athlete. On today’s show, Ben and I discuss asymmetry, rhythm, and “aliveness” in sprint and power development. We explore when to let unique mechanics—like Byanda Wlaza’s galloping stride—run their course versus coaching toward a technical model. Ben gets into the general speed training lessons he gained from bobsled, and shares why he now favors yielding isometrics, unilateral strength, and med ball throws over heavy lifts, emphasizing longevity, reflexive strength, and movement variability. We finish with how curvilinear sprints, pool work, and playful, multidirectional movement help athletes stay reactive, adaptable, and pain-free. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and LILA Exogen wearable resistance. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 – Asymmetry, gallop running, and what to do with extremes 12:25 – Air-time vs ground work: why the stuff in the air transfers to sprinting 16:08 – From long jump and 4x100 to bobsled trials and the push track 19:57 – Retirement, coming back, and the management needed for longevity 24:04 – Achilles management, playing sport, and the power of movement variety 31:09 – Practical coaching advice: get people back into the sport they love 41:31 – Curvilinear sprints, feeling safe, and bringing play into rehab 45:53 – How bobsled pushing changed Ben’s acceleration and posterior chain 52:28 – Hamstring training, velocity, and the limits of eccentric volume 59:46 – Practical tools: tank sleds, prowlers, glute-ham machines, and Zurcher split squats 1:08:19 – Why Ben minimized compound max lifts and what he uses now 1:24:46 – Programming for mature athletes: living off the strength bank and using yield isometrics Actionable Takeaways 0:00 – Asymmetry, gallop running, and what to do with extremes Ben discusses the gallop-style sprint and whether to coach it out or keep it in the bandwidth. Use a technical benchmark as your reference, then assess the athlete’s bandwidth before changing form. If an athlete still performs well, test before adjusting — not every asymmetry needs fixing. Sled pushing can exaggerate patterns, so train sled and unweighted sprints separately for balance. 12:25 – Air-time vs ground work: why the stuff in the air transfers to sprinting Ben highlights the value of airborne drills and how isolating sides changes learning. Mix air-time drills (A-skips, dribbles) with reflexive work that reinforces limb exchange. Use isolating drills to refine control, then transition back to dynamic, reciprocal actions. Treat drills as tools to build feel, not techniques to be perfected. 16:08 – From long jump and 4x100 to bobsled trials and the push track Ben explains how testing funneled him into bobsled and what carried over from track. Identify transferable metrics (sprint speed, jumps) when guiding athletes into new sports. Plan gradual body composition changes to meet the new sport’s demands. Treat push-track practice as a specific development tool, not just novelty work. 19:57 – Retirement, coming back, and the management needed for longevity After retiring and returning, Ben focused less on output and more on resilience. Manage exposure and reduce cumulative max-strength volume. Replace some heavy lifts with unilateral, metabolic, and yielding isometric work. Use program variety, low-impact options, and smart recovery methods to extend career length. 24:04 – Achilles management, playing sport, and the power of movement variety Ben credits playful movement and variety for helping tendon and joint health. Add small doses of games (tennis, soccer, basketball) to reintroduce variability. Use pool work or hydro drills for recovery and postural reset. Mix in curvilinear or lateral movement constraints to keep tissues adapting. 31:09 – Practical coaching advice: get people back into the sport they love For long-term motivation, Ben recommends bringing fun back into training. Encourage clients to play their favorite childhood sport once a week. Adjust strength or volume elsewhere to keep total load manageable. Sustainable performance starts with enjoyment and consistency. 41:31 – Curvilinear sprints, feeling safe, and bringing play into rehab Curvy sprints helped Ben maintain intent while rehabbing hamstrings. Use curved sprint runs to maintain intensity without overstressing tissues. Add slight lateral elements early in rehab, then progress to linear sprinting. Keep a playful mindset to reduce fear and reintroduce speed safely. 45:53 – How bobsled pushing changed Ben’s acceleration and posterior chain Heavy sled pushing built unique posterior chain strength and acceleration power. Use sleds or prowlers for overloaded horizontal propulsion and hip drive. Track carryover into unweighted sprints and manage load progression carefully. Bridge sled pushing to sprinting through transitional mechanics and lighter sled phases. 52:28 – Hamstring training, velocity, and the limits of eccentric volume Ben emphasizes that eccentric loading must be balanced with sprint volume. Let sprint velocity drive hamstring development, not excessive eccentric reps. Use controlled Nordics or glute-ham raises as teaching tools, not endurance sets. Balance sprint and gym volume to protect tendon and muscle integrity. 59:46 – Practical tools: tank sleds, prowlers, glute-ham machines, and Zurcher split squats Ben’s favorite tools support progressive overload without joint stress. Use tank sleds or prowlers to build safe, scalable horizontal power. Include Zurcher split squats to teach pelvic control and glute-ham coordination. Adjust pad placement and load to individualize tendon-friendly training. 1:08:19 – Why Ben minimized compound max lifts and what he uses now Ben stopped chasing 1RMs but kept power outputs high through variation. For experienced athletes, reduce heavy compound frequency. Use yielding isometrics, unilateral strength, and medicine ball throws for high intent with less wear. Maintain strength but prioritize function, elasticity, and recovery. 1:24:46 – Programming for mature athletes: living off the strength bank and using yield isometrics Ben calls it “living off the interest” — using past strength while training smarter. Build blocks around tissue health, elasticity, and efficient expression of existing strength. Use high-velocity drills and isometrics for safe, effective output. Replace grindy lifts with explosive work that matches the athlete’s current phase of life.  Quotes from Ben Simons “Once you're out of the acceleration phase... it's like spinning a bike wheel. After the first few spins, to make it go quicker, you’ve just got to tap it.” “Pushing bobsleigh absolutely improved my speed. It freed up my hips and built specific posterior chain strength.” “If you’ve put the money in the bank with max strength earlier, you might be living off the interest later. You don’t always need to chase heavy lifts.” “Playing multiple sports keeps movement options open. When you stop playing, you stop sprinting and exposing yourself to short, intense bursts.” “Curvilinear sprints changed how I trained after my hamstring tear. The lateral element made me feel safe but still competitive.” “There’s only so much eccentric volume you can tolerate if you’re already sprinting fast. Be smart with total load.” “Get people back into the sport they loved. The consistency and joy matter more than the perfect gym split.” “Tank sleds and prowlers build the same intent as sled pushing — once they’re moving, timing and impulse become the training.” About Ben Simons Ben Simons OLY is a British performance coach and former Olympic bobsledder with a background in sprinting and sports science. A two-time Olympian (Sochi 2014, PyeongChang 2018) and World Cup gold medallist, Ben spent a decade representing Great Britain on the international stage, competing in over 120 events. Before bobsleigh, he was a Welsh indoor 60 m champion and studied sports science at Cardiff Met, experiences that laid the foundation for his lifelong focus on speed and power development. Today, Ben brings that elite-sport experience to his work as a strength, speed, and performance coach. His approach blends biomechanics, motor learning, and nervous-system training to help athletes move efficiently and perform explosively under pressure. With an emphasis on coordination, recovery, and data-driven methods, Ben coaches athletes and teams across sports to bridge the gap between research and real-world performance, developing complete athletes who are as resilient and adaptable as they are fast and strong.

Today’s guest is Cody Hughes. Cody is a strength and performance coach at Farm & Forge in Nashville, blending over a decade of collegiate and private-sector experience into a practical, athlete-centered approach. His work bridges foundational movement with modern tools like VBT and GPS tracking, always anchored by the belief that health drives performance. With the rising influence of technology in training, it can become more difficult to look clearly at the core facets of athletic force production, as well as how to optimally use technology to fill gaps, inform decisions, and even motivate groups. On today’s episode, Cody traces his shift from heavy-loading bias to a performance lens built on force management, eccentric RFD, and training that actually reflects sport. We unpack depth drops vs. “snapdowns,” why rigid “landing mechanics” miss the mark, and how movement literacy, variability, and velocity drive speed and durability. On the tech side, we get into velocity-based training (VBT) as a feedback and motivation tool, using it to gamify effort and auto-regulate load, and knowing when to remove the numbers to protect recovery and intent. Leaderboards, incentives, and smart stimulus design all matter, but Cody keeps it clear that data supports the human element that produces real power. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and LILA Exogen wearable resistance. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 – Early lifting story and the hip replacement turning point 5:31 – Coaching development, biases, and error-driven learning 19:29 – The snapdown debate: context, progressions, and purpose 25:44 – What eccentric RFD tells us about athletic durability 30:42 – Strength as expression: assessments and force-plate logic 42:31 – Movement literacy and using competitive, decision-rich drills 49:30 – VBT explained: feedback, governors, and gamification 56:50 – When to hide feedback: elite athletes and psychological load 1:01:35 – Where VBT shines: youth and early training ages 1:25:28 – Wrap up and where to find Cody Actionable Takeaways 0:00 – Early lifting story and the hip replacement turning point. Cody’s early heavy-loading bias led to a total hip replacement and changed his training philosophy toward stability and movement quality. Reassess program priorities after a major injury: shift emphasis from maximal compressive loading to single-leg work, mobility, and stability. Use your injury story as a guardrail: design training that preserves life-long movement and allows play with family. Teach athletes the why: heavy strength is useful, but it must be paired with tissue resilience and mobility to avoid long-term breakdown. 5:31 – Coaching development, biases, and error-driven learning. Cody stresses that coaching wisdom grows from coaching people, making mistakes, and combining mentorship with hands-on experience. Get "skin in the game": coach real athletes and collect mistakes that refine your practice, not just textbook theory. Seek mentorship and internships to accelerate learning while still accepting the value of self-discovery. Avoid premature certainty: test provocative ideas and be ready to change your mind when evidence or outcomes demand it. 19:29 – The snapdown debate: context, progressions, and purpose. Snapdowns can be either a motor-learning tool for hinge/positioning or a low-value, non-stimulating ritual depending on context. Use snapdowns as a micro-dose progression: for young athletes, combine unweighting, pelvic control, and velocity to teach hinge and pretension. Do not use snapdowns as a one-size-fits-all landing mechanic; if the only goal is "landing mechanics," favor exposing tissues to a range of velocities, angles, and vectors instead. If snapdowns are used with elite athletes, ensure they serve an explicit force- or RFD-related progression, not just a warm-up checkbox. 25:44 – What eccentric RFD tells us about athletic durability. Eccentric rate of force development strongly correlates with sports performance and longevity; capacity to handle rapid braking is crucial. Include progressive eccentric exposures (depth drops, drop jumps) to train braking RFD, using force metrics when possible. Teach athletes both options: hard, stiff contacts for quick reactivity or yielding strategies for impulse extension depending on the task. Combine eccentric work with decision-making drills so athletes learn to anticipate and pretense contact in sport contexts. 30:42 – Strength as expression: assessments and force-plate logic. Strength is task-dependent expression; force plates can reveal propulsive power, braking power, and RFD in meaningful ways. Use force-plate metrics to profile athletes: concentric power, eccentric RFD, and MRSi reveal different capacities than a 1RM. Prefer task-specific assessments over global 1RMs when the sport requires velocity and elastic qualities. Interpret strength as what athletes can express in context; design training to improve the expression that matters for their sport. 42:31 – Movement literacy and using competitive, decision-rich drills. Velocity and decision-making make drills stimulating and transferable; gamified constraints produce higher engagement and better transfer. Replace rote, low-stimulus drills with short competitive tasks that require decision making and speed under load (medicine-ball throws for distance, target throws). Use velocity and competitive constraints to drive intent and motor learning rather than static, pre-planned movement only. Track whether the stimulus actually pushes sport expression; if not, rework the drill into a more game-like challenge. 49:30 – VBT explained: feedback, governors, and gamification. Velocity is a real-time metric that gives context to load and can be used as feedback, an auto-regulatory governor, or a target for progression. Use VBT as a governor for youth and novices: set minimum velocity thresholds to preserve technique and avoid grindy lifts. Turn VBT into gamified progression: allow athletes to increase weight when they exceed a target velocity, creating clear incentives. Combine velocity rules with technical constraints (range of motion, sequence) so numbers reward quality, not sloppy reps. 56:50 – When to hide feedback: elite athletes and psychological load. Feedback can over-intensify ultra-competitive athletes; sometimes removing numbers preserves performance and mental stability. For elite, highly competitive athletes, selectively hide feedback during heavy phases or pre-competition to avoid harmful intensification. Monitor athlete psychology: if feedback creates anxiety or counterproductive competition, reduce or remove it. Let tools be optional; coaching art decides when to give feedback and when to protect athlete readiness. 1:01:35 – Where VBT shines: youth and early training ages. VBT is especially useful for high-school and early-college athletes to build intent, maintain quality, and teach progression. Apply VBT to 14-18 year olds as a way to teach velocity thresholds and encourage technical integrity. Use a three-level VBT approach: simple feedback, a governor to enforce minimum velocity, and targets for competition. Include VBT even with youth to keep training engaging and to prevent excessively heavy, low-quality loads. 1:25:28 – Wrap up and where to find Cody. Cody recommends practical systems that combine measurement and human coaching, and points listeners to his resources. When building a program, combine objective metrics with careful observation and athlete buy-in. Use tools to reduce guesswork, but always interpret them through athlete readiness and context. Find Cody on Instagram @clh_strength and at clhstrength.com for programs and resource sheets. Quotes from Cody Hughes “People have to be able to handle eccentric forces. Eccentric RFD is an extremely important metric for all field and court sport athletes.” “If you use a snapdown as a micro-dose progression to teach hinge, pelvic control, and velocity, it can be useful for young athletes.” “Strength is not an attribute, it’s an expression. You evaluate strength based on the task it’s being observed in.” “Velocity is just another metric that gives context. It’s real-time feedback rather than operating off old percentage information.” “Get it outside of coach’s judgment and let it be a number on a screen. Now I cheer you on instead of guessing.” “Use VBT as a governor: set minimum velocity thresholds so athletes don’t grind through sloppy reps.” “For elite athletes, sometimes you have to take numbers away. The hyper-competitive athlete can get destabilized by constant feedback.” “Movement efficiency is everything. You challenge it with velocity and with a variety of options where the athlete has to make a decision.” “Don’t keep chasing a strength stimulus if it’s not helping the expression you want. Do the thing at the velocity you need to transfer.” “Make training stimulating and measurable. If you can gamify the system, athletes will want to push the bar and engage more.” About Cody Hughes Cody Hughes, MS, SCCC, CSCS, PSL1, is a strength and performance coach at Farm & Forge in Nashville, Tennessee. A former collegiate athlete with more than a decade of coaching experience across NCAA Division I and II programs, high schools, and the private sector, Cody brings a practical, athlete-centered approach to performance training. His work focuses on building strong movement foundations,

Today’s guest is James de Lacey. James is a professional strength and conditioning coach and the founder of Sweet Science of Fighting, a leading platform for combat sports performance. He has coached in professional rugby leagues across New Zealand, Europe, and the United States, and has trained athletes in MMA, boxing, Muay Thai, and BJJ. Through Sweet Science of Fighting, he delivers evidence-based programs and education for fighters and coaches worldwide. Strength training for athleticism typically focuses on sets, reps, and general forces, but rarely gets into aliveness and skill management of the resistance itself. The former is great for building basic physical competencies, but in integrating the latter, we can breathe more life into a performance program. On today’s show, we dive into James' approach to building athletic strength and power across multiple mediums. We explore how Olympic lifting, especially pull variations, connects to real sport actions, and how striking and collision sports highlight the importance of timing, rigidity, and effective mass. We also break down resistance methods like oscillatory work, flywheels, and accentuated eccentrics, focusing on their alive, reactive qualities rather than just load. These principles carry into speed and power training, including plyometrics and sprinting, with rhythm and movement quality as a central theme. The episode makes strong connections between field sports and combat sports, showing how momentum, relaxation, and rigidity at impact shape performance. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and LILA Exogen wearable resistance. Use the code “justfly20” for 20% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:56 - Olympic Lifting Philosophy and Sport-Specific Implementation 4:26 - The Role of Bar Flex and Slack in Block Pulls vs. Rack Pulls 7:03 - High Block Work for Impulse and Technical Refinement 12:22 - Oscillatory Training and the Limits of Maximal Strength 24:49 - Upper/Lower Body Dissociation for Fluid Movement and Game Speed 52:25 - Controlled Eccentric Overload using Flywheel Technology Actionable Takeaways 0:56 - Olympic Lifting Philosophy and Sport-Specific Implementation Prioritize Pull Variations: Use variations like the high pull, especially in combat sports (grapplers), to strengthen the upper back and facilitate violent, vertical hip extension. This is useful for actions like a mat return. Select Snatch over Clean: Choose snatch variations (e.g., power snatch from the hip/hang) over the clean for general athletes because the front rack position is often too difficult, making the snatch easier to learn. Match Lift to Resource/Context: Recognize that the implementation of Olympic lifts in a team setting is often constrained by equipment (e.g., only two barbells for a team) and the athlete's level. 4:26 - The Role of Bar Flex and Slack in Block Pulls vs. Rack Pulls Understand Sensory Differences: Recognize that pulling from blocks feels different than pulling from a power rack. Blocks hold the plates, allowing for "slack" and "flex" in the bar, similar to a deadlift bar. Avoid Dead Weight: Pulling from a rack holds the bar and removes the flex, creating a "dead weight" stimulus, which makes the lift harder and limits the use of bar properties to set positions. 7:03 - High Block Work for Impulse and Technical Refinement Train for Time Constraints: Utilize high block work to force athletes to generate high impulse in very short time frames, mirroring the time constraints often encountered in sport. Force Pull-Under Technique: High blocks are a beneficial constraint that forces the athlete to actively "pull themselves under" the bar, addressing a common technical flaw where athletes dive under instead of finishing the pull. Facilitate Speed via Relaxation: Understand that successful Olympic lifting requires a "pseudo activation relaxation kind of thing," where relaxation facilitates the speed needed to pull under the bar. 12:22 - Oscillatory Training and the Limits of Maximal Strength Use Oscillatory Isometrics: Implement oscillatory or pulse-style isometric exercises, such as a pulsing single-leg glute ham raise isometric, for specific adaptations (e.g., in-season hamstring work). Re-evaluate Max Strength Bias: Understand that an over-emphasis on maximal strength may not transfer to improved power in short time frames. Research suggests that "relaxation kinetics" can be negatively adapted by heavy strength training alone, causing athletes to "break earlier" in fast, cyclical actions. Prescribe by Sport Demands: Group athletes by position or sport needs: grapplers need high force; strikers need high velocity; rugby backs need speed; tight five need strength; and adjust the volume of maximal strength work accordingly. 24:49 - Upper/Lower Body Dissociation for Fluid Movement and Game Speed Prioritize Dissociation: View the ability to rapidly dissociate the upper and lower body as a key component of athleticism. Implement Dissociation Drills: Use large association exercises, such as the landmine bar whip drill combined with foot switching, which James has observed good athletes doing well. Use Perturbation for Game Speed: Apply upper-body perturbations like a "halo acceleration run" (sprinting while haloing a 5kg plate above the head) to help athletes maintain speed while doing an upper-body task. Relate to Game Actions: Connect dissociation training to "critical game speed" examples, such as a rugby or soccer player looking behind them to track a ball while sprinting in a straight line. 52:25 - Controlled Eccentric Overload using Flywheel Technology Use Machines for Eccentric Overload: Leverage machines like the 1080 Quantum for eccentric overload, as it provides a safe, controlled method that overcomes the limitations (heavy loads, multiple spotters, danger) of traditional eccentric lifting. Test Extreme Applications: Controlled mechanical resistance can be used for novel training; James tested using the Quantum for eccentric overload neck training (40 kgs on an Iron Neck) and found no soreness, suggesting safety with constant feedback loops. Apply to Sport-Specific Movements: Eccentric overload can be applied to sport-specific movements like "bear hug rotations" (resisting the machine as it pulls a bag back) for huge transfer to grappling, wrestling, and rugby. About James de Lacey James de Lacey is a professional strength & conditioning coach and the founder of Sweet Science of Fighting, a leading platform for combat sports performance education. He holds a Master’s degree in Sport & Exercise Science and has worked as an S&C coach in professional rugby leagues across New Zealand, Europe, and the United States, as well as with MMA, boxing, Muay Thai, and BJJ athletes. Through Sweet Science of Fighting, he creates evidence-based programs, courses, and research breakdowns focused on strength, power, conditioning, and technical performance for fighters and coaches. His work bridges sports science with the practical demands of combat sports, making high-level training methods accessible and applicable worldwide.

Today’s guest is Manuel Buitrago. Manuel is a PhD, along with being the founder and director of MaStrength, a global education brand dedicated to authentic Chinese weightlifting. Since launching MaStrength in 2014, he’s taught 100+ seminars worldwide, authored Chinese Weightlifting: A Visual Guide to Technique and Chinese Weightlifting: Technical Mastery & Training There are many misconceptions in the world of strength training, especially as the lens of a skeletal pressure-based view is not included in modern training systems. When skeletal pressure dynamics are understood, it allows us to see why athletes prefer particular variations of lifts, how and why they fail lifts, and what aspects of the lifts themselves lead to better athletic outcomes. On today’s episode, Manuel speaks on the practicalities of weightlifting and how it carries over to sport. He compares powerlifting and Olympic lifting from a technique and transfer standpoint, and gets into how body shapes, breathing, and set-ups affect a lift. Manuel also touches on connective tissue and why it matters for performance and durability. From this episode, you’ll learn concepts about the Olympic and powerlifts that can not only improve lifting performance but also facilitate a better transfer to athleticism and movement ability. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer at thedunkcamp.com Use code “justfly20” for 20% off of LILA Exogen Wearable resistance gear at www.lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 - From gymnastics and powerlifting to Chinese weightlifting 3:34 - First Olympic lifting exposure via IronMind footage and Pyrs Dimas 5:40 - The Chinese team’s systematic approach that sparked the study abroad 9:30 - Breathing, shapes, and the funnel concept for lifting 26:15 - Bottom-up squats: why weightlifting squats differ from powerlifting squats 30:45 - Training near the hip and block work to bias upward, explosive shapes 41:08 - Squat jerk versus split jerk - body shape, femur length, and selection 54:34 - Box squats, touch-and-go versus deloading - individualize by athlete shape 58:29 - Practical breathing cues to create and switch the funnel shape 1:07:24 - Applying shapes to sport - who benefits from which strategies Actionable Takeaways 0:00 - From gymnastics and powerlifting to Chinese weightlifting Manuel’s early background (gymnastics then powerlifting) led him to seek a more athletic, attainable physique via Olympic lifting. Use cross-sport curiosity: explore other lifting cultures to discover training cues that fit your athlete. Test new lifts with low ego loads to learn the feeling before programming heavy progressions. When an approach resonates (Manuel saw this in video footage), lean into learning it systematically rather than chasing trends. 3:34 - First Olympic lifting exposure via IronMind footage and Pyrs Dimas Seeing training hall footage made manual learning possible; video can reveal consistent patterns across a team. Use curated training footage to spot systematic cues you can trial in the gym. Compare multiple athletes in the same system to find the shared principles, not the outlier quirks. Trial small protocol elements from footage (timing, shapes, sequencing) on yourself or a pilot athlete before scaling. 5:40 - The Chinese team’s systematic approach that sparked the study abroad Manuel noticed consistent shapes and timing in the Chinese footage that contrasted with other teams’ variety. When observing multiple athletes, note common positions and tempo as signals of a system you can emulate. If a system looks consistent and repeatable, consider immersive study (courses, short placements) to learn its language. Use language and cultural learning to communicate directly with athletes and coaches when studying foreign systems. 9:30 - Breathing, shapes, and the funnel concept for lifting Manuel stresses creating a funnel-shaped torso from the start position - compressed lower torso plus expanded upper torso - to bias upward movement. Teach athletes to compress the abs first, then allocate air to the upper torso so chest and mid-back expand; this creates an upward gradient. Practice the shape unloaded: stand, exhale to compress lower abs, then fill front and back of upper torso so the mid-back expands. Repeat until the cue is reliable. Avoid powerlifting-style breathing in the start position (squeezing top while pushing belly against the belt) when the goal is quick upward reversal. 26:15 - Bottom-up squats: why weightlifting squats differ from powerlifting squats Weightlifting squats are usually “bottom-up” because the lift catches are unweighted while the bar rises; powerlifting squats tend to be “top-down”. Program bottom-up variations (Andersons, pin squats, bottom-position work) to train the specific rebound and reversal qualities used after a catch. If the athlete struggles to rebound from deep positions, include drills that train storing and releasing connective tissue energy (controlled depth with quick rebound). Remember the context: heavy front squats from the rack are a different stimulus than the unweighted catch followed by a bottom-up squat in competition. 30:45 - Training near the hip and block work to bias upward, explosive shapes Work that starts closer to the hip trains a shape that favors upward, externally rotated positions and faster reversals. Use high-block or hip-near pulls and catches to bias external rotation and rapid upward dynamics. Pair hip-near training with short, explosive plyos so athletes learn to translate the stored elastic energy into vertical output. If an athlete spends too much time in internally rotated, compressive positions, schedule sessions that emphasize hip-centric and block-based lifts. 41:08 - Squat jerk versus split jerk - body shape, femur length, and athlete selection Squat-jerkers typically have shorter femurs and longer torsos and thus can maintain upright balance in deep catches. Screen athletes for limb proportions and uprightness under load: prefer squat jerk coaching for those with short femurs and strong overhead squat resilience. For athletes who struggle to remain upright, consider split jerk pathways or strengthen the funnel shape and overhead squat tolerance first. Use repeated overhead squat tolerance under heavier cleaning loads as a practical selector for jerk style. Squat-jerkers often tolerate higher reps near max more easily. 54:34 - Box squats, touch-and-go versus deloading - individualize by athlete shape Choose touch-and-go or paused/deloading box squats depending on whether the athlete needs to bias upward power or shape the ability to go down. If an athlete already rebounds well from depth, prefer touch-and-go or tempo box variations to maintain upward pressure. If an athlete needs to learn to release tension and sink into depth, use deloaded box squats with brief pauses to teach pressure release and shape change. Consider the athlete’s history: wide, compressed lifters often need deloading; narrow, rebound-prone athletes often need touch-and-go stimulus. 58:29 - Practical breathing cues to create and switch the funnel shape Manuel gives a concrete cue sequence: compress the lower abs, maintain tension, then allow the air to expand the upper chest and mid-back. Drill the sequence unloaded: exhale and compress lower abs, hold tension, then breathe so the chest and mid-back expand. Repeat until automatic. Coach upper-back expansion explicitly; avoid cues that only push the chest forward because that creates a forward-leaning, non-funnel shape. Use the balloon analogy Manuel uses: avoid gulping air that forces awkward shape changes; teach controlled allocation of air so the athlete retains capacity to change shape. 1:07:24 - Applying shapes to sport - who benefits from which strategies Manuel emphasizes matching shape and exercise selection to sport needs - a center (football) needs different shapes than a sprinter or jumper. Choose training goals by job description: low, rooted shapes for linemen; upward, externally rotated shapes and hip-near training for aerial or sprint positions. Don’t force every athlete into Olympic lifting; you only need the shape the sport requires. Use lifts and drills that produce the desired shape. Assess each athlete’s baseline shape, then pick exercises that move them toward the shape they need to express on the field. Quotes “People who just stay in one shape are not going to be as successful as people who can change their shapes.” “So the squat for weightlifting always happens from after the catch. It happens from the bottom up.” “A funnel has to be, you know, wide on both sides from front to back.” “If your goal is to get really good at squatting from the bottom up, you need to make a shape that again helps you go up.” “As you are reaching the hip, say for a snatch, you are reaching more of an externally rotated shape of the pelvis.” “Upright rows are great if your goal is to try to go down faster.” “When you go into that deep position you’re storing energy.” “If you catch it in the middle and then ride it down, you have to come to a stop. So you have to put force into the ground to stop.” “Squat jerkers… are going to have short femurs, they’re going to have a longer torso.” “If you don’t breathe like this in weightlifting, you can’t create the shape that helps you rebound out of the bottom.” About Manuel Buitrago Manuel Buitrago, PhD, is a coach, author, and the founder/director of MaStrength, where he teaches the techniques, theory, and programming principles of Chinese weightlifting to athletes and coaches around the world.

Today’s guest is Jack Barry. Jack is the founder of JB Performance and a former ABCA DIII All-American (York College, 2021) who played at Salisbury University. After college, he worked at Tread Athletics, then built a remote+in-person coaching model. Jack has coached athletes from high school to pro levels, appeared on Baseball America’s 90th Percentile, and hosts the “Just Rippin’” podcast. On today’s episode, Jack speaks on athletic potential as a function of work capacity with quality, deliberate practice. We unpack the mental side of training, how visualization, targeted self-talk, and timely pattern breaks calm performance anxiety and restore confidence. He also touches on how athletes thrive when they develop a unique identity, balance effort with recovery, and treat mindset and mechanics as equal partners. This is a dynamic episode, at the intersection of pitching skill and global human performance concepts. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and LILA Exogen wearable resistance. Use the code “justfly25” for 25% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:20 – From college ball to new competitive outlets4:10 – Work capacity, family influences, and cross-training7:10 – Adapting training: speed, volume, and specificity10:01 – Aerobic contributions in racket and throwing sports15:46 – Provoking reactivity: stumble drills and innate responses23:16 – Pattern breaks, the yips, and the "be sexy" mentality27:44 – Reactive throwing drills to clean the arm action31:15 – Pre-movement cues and subtle distractions to speed action43:21 – Visualization with highlight reels to build confidence52:25 – Essentialism in training: less and better59:50 – Start with less, progress intelligently1:00:25 – Barefoot training and simplifying the lower half Actionable takeaways 0:20 – From college ball to new competitive outlets Jack traces his path from Division III Salisbury baseball into jiu-jitsu, tennis, and a renewed love for training after leaving team sport. Treat post-playing transitions as a chance to experiment with new sports that satisfy the competitive impulse. Use cross-training to keep motivation high while developing complementary athletic qualities. When exploring a new sport, accept the beginner phase and enjoy the novelty rather than forcing immediate mastery. 4:10 – Work capacity, family influences, and cross-training Jack reflects on family genetics and finding his own work-capacity strengths through varied activities. If you enjoy sustained effort, program both volume and varied intensity (easy long efforts plus specific speed sessions). Use cross-training (racket sports, running, court games) to get game-like cardiovascular stimulus without burnout. Be deliberate: split session types by purpose (speed sessions, volume sessions, tempo work) instead of lumping everything together. 7:10 – Adapting training: speed, volume, and specificity Jack describes learning to periodize his running and mix speed with volume to actually get faster. Structure sessions by purpose: separate longer aerobic efforts from targeted speed work. Progress volume conservatively (small weekly increases) and add specific speed work for real improvements in pace. Treat running like any other modality: apply progressive overload principles and discipline. 10:01 – Aerobic contributions in racket and throwing sports Jack compares racket sports and throwing, noting the reactive and aerobic demands of court play. Use court-based conditioning to develop reactive stamina and contextual decision-making. Choose cross-training that mirrors sport constraints when possible (racket sports for reactive throws). When prescribing conditioning, prefer enjoyable, sport-like formats to sustain athlete buy-in. 15:46 – Provoking reactivity: stumble drills and innate responses Jack and Joel discuss deliberately provoking reactive behavior to shut off overthinking and unlock natural responses. Include occasional stumble or get-up starts to force reactive systems and reduce conscious rumination. Use surprise or unpredictable triggers in practice to train the body’s innate quickness under pressure. Reserve these drills for appropriate contexts; they are tools to access reactive output, not constant training staples. 23:16 – Pattern breaks, the yips, and the "be sexy" mentality Jack shares the value of non-technical pattern breaks and the "be sexy" cue to reframe performance under pressure. Use lighthearted, unrelated activities (driving range, pickup basketball, different meal) to break ruts and reset focus. Create simple, individualized cues that reduce overthinking and let the subconscious drive skill execution. For athletes with choked performance, pair deliberate practice with small pattern breaks to restore confidence. 27:44 – Reactive throwing drills to clean the arm action Jack outlines a drill where a player catches a quick toss and must immediately throw, forcing quick arm tempo and simplicity. Practice the reactive catch-and-throw drill: catch with the throwing hand and release immediately to train arm quickness. Manipulate the toss location to shape desired arm path and timing (behind, side, front). Use this drill to reduce “stabby” arm actions and promote a faster, simpler release. 31:15 – Pre-movement cues and subtle distractions to speed action Jack and Joel explore small pre-movement tricks that distract the conscious brain and improve quickness. Introduce tiny physical cues (hand tension, a quick clench) to occupy the conscious mind just before action. Teach athletes short rituals that consistently prep their motor system without promoting rumination. Practice cues in training until they transfer automatically into competition scenarios. 43:21 – Visualization with highlight reels to build confidence Jack recommends using real performance highlights as a stronger visualization tool than abstract self-talk alone. Create athlete highlight reels from real clips and pair them with music to reinforce proven ability. Use these videos to accelerate confidence during rehab or performance slumps. Prioritize demonstrated performance over empty affirmation; show athletes the evidence that they can perform. 52:25 – Essentialism in training: less and better Jack argues for focused, deliberate practice rather than glorified volume that often leads to injury or wasted effort. Identify the few high-value actions that drive performance and prioritize them ruthlessly. Start with less volume; add only when the athlete’s recovery and adaptation permit. Use deliberate practice principles: quality reps beat quantity when the goal is skill and transfer. 59:50 – Start with less, progress intelligently Jack uses food and recovery analogies to explain why starting with less volume is safer and more effective. Begin new phases conservatively; you can always increase load if recovery and performance allow. Reserve high-volume spikes only when the schedule and athlete readiness support them. Teach athletes to view additional work as strategic, not as a default reaction to anxiety about performance. 1:00:25 – Barefoot training and simplifying the lower half Jack explains how barefoot throwing can simplify lower-half behavior and reveal excessive lower-limb compensation. Use barefoot throws as a diagnostic or early-stage constraint to simplify the lower half and highlight upper-body efficiency. Progress foot conditions: barefoot drills for proprioception, barefoot shoes for training, then cleats for skill transfer. Apply barefoot work selectively, knowing it’s an advanced, context-sensitive tool rather than a universal prescription. Quotes “If you want to get faster, you can’t just pile on more running. You need to separate sessions by focus: speed, volume, or tempo, so the body actually adapts.” “Sometimes the best way to unlock athleticism is to provoke reactivity. A stumble start or quick catch-and-throw drill forces the body to solve problems without overthinking.” “The goal of the reactive throw drill is simple: catch the ball with your throwing hand and get it out as quickly as possible. It cleans up arm action without over-coaching.” “Pattern breaks are underrated. Take an athlete with the yips to a driving range, or give them a playful cue like ‘be sexy.’ It resets their mind and frees up performance.” “Highlight reels are more powerful than affirmations. When an athlete watches themselves succeed, the brain believes it; it accelerates confidence and recovery.” “Effort feels good, but too much volume is often just anxiety disguised as training. Start with less, because you can always add more once the athlete shows they’re ready.” “Essentialism matters. Training isn’t about doing everything; it’s about finding the few things that actually drive transfer and doubling down on those.” “Barefoot throwing is a constraint that simplifies the lower half. Without the shoe, the body can’t fake drive off the mound, and you see what’s really happening mechanically.” About Jack Barry Jack Barry, CSCS, is the founder of JB Performance, where he helps pitchers turn efficient mechanics and smart workloads into game-day velocity and command. His process blends slow-motion video breakdown, individualized drill progressions, and clear week-to-week plans that are simple to follow and easy to measure. Jack’s focus areas include strength & conditioning, throwing mechanics and workload management, pitch design, and mobility. Jack Barry Performance Before coaching online,

Today’s guest is Romain Tourillon. Romain is a sports physiotherapist and researcher specializing in the foot–ankle complex, with clinical leadership at the Swiss Olympic Medical Center, La Tour Hospital (Geneva). His PhD at Université Jean Monnet Saint-Étienne examined foot muscle strength and sport performance. It’s important to train the lower legs in athletes, but the question is what type of training is best, especially when it comes to working the toes and forefoot, versus more general calf and shin work. In this episode, Romain discusses his research on forefoot biomechanics and performance. He shares training that boosted MTP (big-toe) flexion strength ~28% in trained athletes and explains how stronger forefeet enhance sprinting, cutting, and jumping via better force transmission and stability. We also cover injury prevention, targeted foot/ankle exercises, challenges in measuring toe strength, and where 3D analyses may take the field— with practical takeaways for coaches and athletes throughout. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and the Just Fly Sports Online Courses Check out the newest mini-course, Sprint Drills Reloaded on how to maximize sprint drills, their specific strength development, building of major sprint actions, along with better integration of sprint drills into sprinting technique. The special intro sale ends July 1st. (https://justflysports.thinkific.com/courses/sprint-drills-reloaded) Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer Use code “justfly20” for 20% off of LILA Exogen Wearable resistance gear at www.lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:00 Building a PhD Protocol from Real-Life Training 4:46 Using Everyday Objects to Innovate Foot Training 8:16 Surface Texture and Proprioception in Barefoot Work 11:27 Breaking Down Romain’s PhD Research on the Forefoot 16:22 Gym and Home-Based Protocols for MTP Flexion 22:11 Measuring Toe and Forefoot Strength Accurately 31:20 Mobility of the Forefoot and Its Role in Force Production 37:31 Results: How 8 Weeks of Forefoot Training Changed Performance 43:54 Explaining the Improvements in Cutting, Jumping, and Sprinting 53:01 Linking Forefoot Strength to Ankle Stability and Injury Prevention 58:23 Isolated Toe Training vs. Global Foot and Calf Training 1:15:09 Designing General Foot-Ankle Programs for Teams Actionable Takeaways 0:00 – Building a PhD Protocol from Real-Life Training Romain developed his research exercises by first experimenting on himself to understand their feel, intensity, and weaknesses. Test new foot or ankle drills on yourself first to refine cues and feel. Note the sensations and difficulties athletes might face before implementing. Use self-testing to build better communication and progression strategies. 4:46 – Using Everyday Objects to Innovate Foot Training The “foot bridge” concept came from standing barefoot on two bricks, showing that creative setups can unlock new sensations without expensive tools. Incorporate simple props like bricks or angled boards to change foot loading. Create small balance challenges to engage the toes and arches differently. Use low-cost, adaptable tools to spark innovation in foot training. 8:16 – Surface Texture and Proprioception in Barefoot Work Different surfaces alter how foot muscles activate, making proprioception a key training variable. Rotate athletes between rough, smooth, and dampened surfaces to shift activation. Use barefoot drills regularly to strengthen sensory feedback from the toes. Treat surface texture as a deliberate tool to adjust difficulty and stimulus. 11:27 – Breaking Down Romain’s PhD Research on the Forefoot Romain studied how forefoot strength training impacts sprinting, cutting, and jumping performance. Add structured toe flexion and forefoot drills to complement lower-leg work. Prioritize multi-planar movements that mimic sport demands. Track performance outcomes (cutting, sprinting, jumping) alongside strength gains. 16:22 – Gym and Home-Based Protocols for MTP Flexion Romain designed practical drills to strengthen metatarsophalangeal (MTP) flexion for athletes and patients alike. Use slant-board single-leg hinges to load the toes under tension. Combine seated towel curls with standing resisted big-toe flexion to cover ranges. Progress from simple bodyweight drills to resisted setups as control improves. 22:11 – Measuring Toe and Forefoot Strength Accurately Toe flexion tests must be standardized to avoid measuring calf compensation instead of true toe strength. Stabilize the rearfoot during tests to isolate toe flexion. Keep the ankle at a consistent angle for every measurement. Reassess regularly to check for genuine improvements, not testing artifacts. 31:20 – Mobility of the Forefoot and Its Role in Force Production Limited hallux motion reduces an athlete’s ability to push off and produce force effectively. Include manual therapy, active stretching, and dorsiflexion drills for the toes. Screen athletes for hallux rigidus or turf toe and address restrictions early. Pair mobility with strength work so new range converts to usable power. 37:31 – Results: How 8 Weeks of Forefoot Training Changed Performance Romain’s protocol produced large gains in forefoot strength and measurable improvements in speed and power. Expect meaningful changes in 5–8 weeks with consistent training. Combine forefoot work with performance testing to show athletes the payoff. Use small, consistent volumes rather than long, exhausting sessions. 43:54 – Explaining the Improvements in Cutting, Jumping, and Sprinting Forefoot training enhanced horizontal force application, leading to better cutting and sprinting outcomes. Integrate toe-flexion drills into warm-ups to prime for explosive sessions. Pair forefoot work with horizontal jumps to reinforce transfer. Use directional cutting drills after forefoot training to cement adaptation. 53:01 – Linking Forefoot Strength to Ankle Stability and Injury Prevention Stronger toes improve rearfoot inversion control, lowering ankle-sprain risk. Program exercises like slant-board single-leg hinges and resisted toe pushes. Train foot strength under varied loads to build robustness against awkward landings. Make foot and ankle work a weekly non-negotiable for athletes prone to sprains. 58:23 – Isolated Toe Training vs. Global Foot and Calf Training Forefoot training alone did not improve calf strength; both areas need targeted work. Pair calf raises or plyometric hops with toe-specific exercises in one session. Use assessment to decide when to bias more toward calf or forefoot. Treat the foot-calf complex as an integrated but trainable system. 1:15:09 – Designing General Foot-Ankle Programs for Teams Romain recommends cycling focus between absorption, propulsion, and spring for team athletes. Structure training blocks around one of the three key functions at a time. Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) to ensure adherence and minimize disruption. Reassess every 5–6 weeks to track adaptation and adjust emphasis. Romain Tourillon Quotes “The whole PhD started with me testing these exercises on myself first. I needed to feel what the athlete would feel.” “I built the first version of the protocol at home with two bricks under my feet. Creativity doesn’t require fancy equipment.” “Different surfaces completely change how the foot muscles activate. The texture under the toes matters.” “You can’t separate intrinsic from extrinsic toe strength; you have to test and train the system as a whole.” “If you don’t stabilize the rearfoot during testing, you’re not really measuring toe flexion—you’re measuring calf compensation.” “Limited big toe motion limits force production. You can’t push properly off the ground if the hallux doesn’t move.” “After eight weeks we saw a 28 percent increase in MTP flexion strength and clear gains in cutting, sprinting, and jumping.” “Strong forefoot function correlates with better rearfoot inversion control, which is crucial for ankle stability.” “Slant-board single-leg hinges are one of my go-to drills for loading the toes under tension.” “Forefoot work alone won’t improve calf strength—you have to deliberately train both.” “The foot-ankle responds quickly to targeted work. In as little as five or six weeks you can see measurable gains.” “Cycle your focus between absorption, propulsion, and spring. Those three functions cover almost everything the foot does in sport.” About Romain Tourillon Romain Tourillon, PT, PhD, is a sports physiotherapist, researcher, and educator focused on foot–ankle biomechanics in health, injury, and high performance. He leads the foot–ankle service at the Swiss Olympic Medical Center (La Tour Hospital, Geneva) and consults with elite athletes. Romain earned his PhD at Université Jean Monnet Saint-Étienne, with work centered on metatarsophalangeal (MTP) flexion strength and its links to sprinting, cutting, and jumping performance. His publications and talks translate cutting-edge research into practical assessment and training methods for coaches and clinicians.

Today’s guest is Sam Portland. Sam is a UK-based athletic performance coach and creator of Speed Gate Golf and the Sports Speed System. After a career in professional sport, he now consults with athletes and teams while mentoring coaches toward healthier and more sustainable careers. Sam has worked with athletes from Premiership Rugby, American football, the Olympics, and beyond, and also runs a grassroots “combine program” designed to fill key gaps in long-term athletic development. In this episode, Sam unpacks the evolution of modern athlete performance, highlighting the role of rhythm, movement, and overlooked details of transfer from training to sport. From the simple power of a jump rope to the deeper psychological layers of coaching, Sam’s insights spark critical thinking and creative training solutions. This is a conversation packed with practical takeaways, helpful for any coach or athlete. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. Use code “justfly20” for 20% off of LILA Exogen Wearable resistance gear at www.lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 0:41 – Jump rope, rhythm, and movement foundations. 8:17 – Start with sport specificity: enroll in the sport first. 16:07 – Reject the bloat — prefer simple, efficient training. 23:13 – Simplicity wins: fewer, better training "flavors." 26:58 – Depth over width in warm-ups — give athletes time to groove. 31:09 – End positions are consequences — focus on what happens between them. 33:31 – Beware shiny systems — find what actually transfers to sport. 38:34 – Make training game-relevant: play, don’t just test. 40:37 – Play-first approach: teach skill through sport-like practice. 45:35 – Threat removal and the neurology of speed. 54:32 – Warm-up blueprint and the Sports Speed System (book). Actionable Takeaways 0:41 – Jump rope, rhythm, and movement foundations. Jump rope builds rhythm, timing, elastic return and pickup skills. Use short doses (2 min) of single- or double-under work in warmups to train rhythm and contact quality. Rotate rope patterns (straight jumps → crossovers → single-leg) to challenge locomotor timing without heavy impact. Try a heavy rope for conditioning to overload the same rhythmical pattern when you want a sterner stimulus. 8:17 – Start with sport specificity: enroll in the sport first. Training should be anchored to the sport. Work backwards from true sport demands. Make the first “module” of preparation aligned with sport context: practice the core movement options athletes need, not just gym metrics. Use position–pattern–power as a checklist: Can they get into the position? Coordinate the pattern? Produce the power? If not, target the missing element. Reserve heavy gym numbers as supporting signals. Measure transfer back to sport rather than assuming gym gains equal game gains. 16:07 – Reject the bloat; prefer simple, efficient training. The profession has become bloated with drills that don’t transfer. Simpler, consistent inputs win. Audit your program: drop drills that don’t clearly influence the game. Prioritize a short list of high-value stimuli (e.g., sprinting, loaded jumps, sport-specific repeats) and be ruthless about sequencing. If two options exist, choose the simpler one. It’s easier to teach, scale, and intensify. 23:13 – Simplicity wins: fewer, better training "flavors." Like a chef simplifying a dish, training should focus on fewer, high-quality elements. Reduce variety for the sake of variety; instead, deepen exposure to the chosen stimuli so athletes get real practice. Use small, repeatable warm-up components (e.g., 3–5 minute arm swings, rhythmic calf bounces) to let athletes discover connections. Keep a core “tick-box” routine players do every session. Consistency creates long-term adaptation. 26:58 – Depth over width in warm-ups; give athletes time to groove. Longer, focused warm-up sections let athletes find subtle connections; ten quick reps do not. Replace short sets of isolated drills with longer exploration windows (e.g., 3–5 minutes of arm swings or gentle rhythm work). Prioritize no-props, verbally cued variability early (keep cones off the ground; use auditory lines) to preserve perceptual skill. Observe how warm-up changes transfer to the first sport reps. If it doesn’t help, change the warm-up, don’t double down on it. 31:09 – End positions are consequences — focus on what happens between them. Positions (hip block, figure-four) are outcomes of sequencing; training the pathway is more useful than repeating end poses. Teach the movement that leads to the position (tempo, loading, transfer of inertia), not just the pose. Use short, task-driven patterns that emphasize the approach (e.g., initial three steps, penultimate adjustments) rather than frozen postures. Recover coaching time by dropping positional parroting that doesn’t affect on-field mechanics. 33:31 – Beware shiny systems. Find what actually transfers to sport. Marketing and flashy protocols sell; transfer to competition is the test. Question novelty: if it looks cool but doesn’t change on-field behaviour, it’s likely low-value. Ask “What does this deliver in the game?” before programming a new method. Favor reproducible, evidence-informed drills: if an intervention reliably improves execution under pressure, keep it. 38:34 – Make training game-relevant: play, don’t just test. Players often perform far better in meaningful game contexts than in sterile tests. Build short play-based warmups that replicate key decision demands (2v2, 3v2, tactical reads) rather than isolated shuttle tests. Use game-like pressure to provoke the movement you want to train; the context unlocks expression. Use tests as indicators, not verdicts; prioritize on-field expression when making programming decisions. 40:37 – Play-first approach: teach skill through sport-like practice. Teach attackers and supporters discrete roles and let them practice those interactions under constraints. Drill 2v2/3v2 scenarios focusing on attacker actions and supporter reactions; simple tweaks yield high execution rates. Layer small tactical rules into play to amplify perceptual learning (e.g., forced weight-shift patterns, visual scanning constraints). Keep repetitions meaningful and immediately connected to match situations. 45:35 – Threat removal and the neurology of speed. Removing perceived threat lets athletes move faster and freer. Psychological context changes neuromotor output. Design early acceleration work that reduces threat (clear space, predictable tasks) so athletes can express speed without guarding. Use progressive exposure: start with low-threat reps, then add realistic pressure as competence rises. Measure on-field speed (GPS splits, key game events) rather than relying solely on lab numbers. 54:32 – Warm-up blueprint and the Sports Speed System (book). Build a consistent warm-up “tick box” that primes hips, rotation, rhythm, then stack drills into play. Core warm-up: hips + rotation daily; ankle rhythm work; then drill-stacking to combine segment → position → pattern → movement before playing. Use verbal/auditory lines rather than cones early to preserve perceptual demands; keep the warm-up sport-facing. For more detail, Sam’s field guide unpacks progressions and context (he notes the book was written as a field guide accessible to a 14-year-old and a 20-year coach). Quotes from Sam Portland “It's elastic driven… it requires lots of coordination, lots of timing. You have to be able to sit in this pocket of rhythm.” “I actually just ordered a heavy rope as well for conditioning… let's put it on steroids.” “What first module… needs to be enrolled in a sport? Because that's how you're going to be actually working backwards from the principle of specificity.” “Our profession is incredibly bloated in terms of… how much ownership of adaptation can we keep hold of and attribute to our job without them just playing sport.” “Now her best dish has three—that’s where we need to be heading.” “We're going to play in sport, Joel. That's what we're going to do.” “When you can get that speed not afraid, guess what—you've got space for sport.” “Secret is consistency. Don't change on that at all because that is your tick box.” “Residuals don't matter for team sports.” “The book was written as a field guide…if a 14-year-old picked it up could I make myself better? Yes. If a 20-year coach picked it up could they improve with nuance? Yes.” About Sam Portland Sam Portland is an athletic performance coach from the UK, the creator of speed gate golf and the Sports Speed System. Following a lengthy career in professional sport, he now consults with athletes/teams and helps guide coaches to happier, healthier, and more financially fulfilling careers. Sam has worked with premiership rugby, American football, Olympic athletes, and international competitors across a plethora of sports, including hockey, bobsleigh, and track and field.  Aside from this, Sam keeps in touch with the grassroots aspects of athlete preparation by hosting his ‘combine program’. This program is a long-term athletic development program that fills the essential gaps in physical literacy that are not fulfilled at school or by club sports.

Today’s guest is Phil Nash. Phil is a Manager of Coach Education at EXOS. He is a seasoned strength and conditioning professional who leads EXOS’s efforts to develop and educate coaches worldwide. Phil specializes in bringing practical, science-based training methods—like plyometrics and medicine-ball work—into performance systems, and regularly shares his expertise at major industry conferences On today’s show, we dig into training models ranging from the force–velocity curve to the idea of infinite games, exploring how these frameworks influence the way we view athletic performance. Phil offers his perspective on blending structured training with the freedom of play, highlighting adaptability and growth as central themes in coaching. This episode provides clear, practical insights for coaches and athletes alike on building both physical capacity and mental resilience. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and the Vert Trainer Use code “justfly10” for 10% off the Vert Trainer Use code “justfly20” for 20% off of LILA Exogen Wearable resistance gear at www.lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 5:12 – Phil’s Journey into Coaching and Performance Training 12:40 – Exploring the Interplay of Science and Coaching Art 22:18 – Building Strong Athlete-Coach Relationships 32:07 – The Role of Autonomy and Curiosity in Development 43:51 – Balancing Physical Preparation with Mental Readiness 55:46 – Using Constraints to Guide Skill and Movement 1:07:12 – Learning from Mistakes and Coaching Growth 1:18:09 – Phil’s Reflections on Longevity and Evolving as a Coach Actionable Takeaways 5:12 – Phil’s Journey into Coaching and Performance Training Key Idea: Phil’s path into performance was shaped by curiosity and the pursuit of practical knowledge over titles. Takeaways: Curiosity often leads to better learning than rigid career plans. Don’t chase credentials alone; focus on applying knowledge effectively. Reflect on your own journey: what experiences shaped your coaching approach? 12:40 – Exploring the Interplay of Science and Coaching Art Key Idea: Phil emphasizes blending research with intuition. Coaching is both science and art. Takeaways: Use research as a guide, not a rulebook. Stay flexible: coaching requires adapting principles to individuals. Trust experience and feel when the data isn’t enough. 22:18 – Building Strong Athlete-Coach Relationships Key Idea: Relationships drive results; athletes respond best when trust and mutual respect are present. Takeaways: Prioritize connection before correction. Listen actively; athletes often know more about their body than you realize. Strong relationships create resilience during setbacks. 32:07 – The Role of Autonomy and Curiosity in Development Key Idea: Giving athletes autonomy fosters curiosity, ownership, and growth. Takeaways: Encourage athletes to explore solutions, not just follow orders. Create environments where curiosity is rewarded. Autonomy builds long-term motivation and adaptability. 43:51 – Balancing Physical Preparation with Mental Readiness Key Idea: True performance is as much mental as it is physical. Mindset shapes outcomes. Takeaways: Prepare the mind alongside the body. Use reflection and visualization tools to build confidence. Don’t overlook recovery as a mental reset, not just a physical one. 55:46 – Using Constraints to Guide Skill and Movement Key Idea: Constraints-based training creates problem-solving and adaptable movers. Takeaways: Design environments that force athletes to adapt. Use constraints to spark creativity, not to over-control. Let athletes discover solutions instead of prescribing every detail. 1:07:12 – Learning from Mistakes and Coaching Growth Key Idea: Mistakes are inevitable; growth comes from reflection and adjustment. Takeaways: Share your coaching mistakes with others; normalize learning. Build feedback loops into your practice. Treat mistakes as experiments, not failures. 1:18:09 – Phil’s Reflections on Longevity and Evolving as a Coach Key Idea: Longevity in coaching comes from curiosity, humility, and willingness to evolve. Takeaways: Stay curious and never assume you’ve “arrived.” Adapt your philosophy as science and experience evolve. Balance work with personal renewal to avoid burnout. Quotes from Phil Nash “Coaching isn’t just applying science; it’s interpreting it through the lens of people.” “Relationships are the glue that holds performance together.” “Curiosity is the foundation of growth; for athletes and coaches alike.” “Constraints aren’t restrictions; they’re invitations for creativity.” “Mistakes are part of the process; if you’re not making them, you’re not pushing boundaries.” “Longevity comes from curiosity and humility, not from clinging to old ways.” About Phil Nash Phillip Nash, MS, CSCS, currently serves as Manager of Coach Education at EXOS, the global, science-driven performance company founded in 1999 and headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. With a background in strength and conditioning (as indicated by his CSCS credential), Phil leads initiatives that shape and elevate the training and development of performance coaches across EXOS’s network of facilities and educational platforms. Phil's role centers on designing and delivering innovative coach education programs that empower trainers, therapists, and performance professionals to implement EXOS’s holistic training system—built on Mindset, Nutrition, Movement, and Recovery- in diverse settings ranging from elite athletics to corporate wellness. He is frequently involved in delivering performance education sessions at major industry events.

Today’s guest is Tim Shieff. Tim is a former world champion freerunner and Ninja Warrior competitor, and the founder of Way of the Rope. After years of high-level competition, he discovered Rope Flow as a way to restore rhythm, coordination, and resilience in movement. Today, he shares this practice worldwide, blending athletic creativity with a simple, sustainable philosophy: low-tech equipment for a high-tech body. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of diverse movement practices in athletic training. From track and field to parkour, breakdance, swimming, and rope flow, we explore how these disciplines shape skill development and reveal the qualitative aspects of elite sport movement. Tim also shares his journey from traditional sports to discovering the benefits of innovative movement, offering powerful insights on how athletes can unlock agility, strength, and resilience by taking a holistic approach to training. Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength. View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Timestamps 5:36 – Exploring Yoga, Biomechanics, and Training Through Injury 10:43 – Discovering Movement Connections Through Slow Practice 23:26 – Parkour Training as a Unique Learning Process 31:41 – Balancing Intensity, Recovery, and Longevity in Training 42:08 – The Value of Gentleness in Building Strength 53:30 – Using Constraints to Improve Movement Awareness 59:08 – Applying Martial Intent and Precision in Movement 1:01:31 – Rope Flow as a Tool for Coordination and Rhythm 1:11:17 – Integrating Jump Rope and Rope Flow into Athletic Training Actionable takeaways 5:36 – Exploring Yoga, Biomechanics, and Training Through Injury Key Idea: Tim explains how yoga and biomechanics gave him tools to keep moving through injuries and to rebuild awareness of how his body works. Actionable Takeaways: Use yoga or mindful movement practices as low-intensity ways to stay connected when injured. Pay attention to biomechanics during rehab—it’s not just about healing tissue, but about moving better long-term. Reframe injuries as opportunities to explore different forms of movement. 10:43 – Discovering Movement Connections Through Slow Practice Key Idea: Slowing things down can reveal hidden connections between muscles, joints, and fascia. Tim found value in practicing movement slowly before adding intensity. Actionable Takeaways: Strip movements down and slow them until you can feel the sequence. Use slow practice as a diagnostic tool to notice leaks, compensations, or missing links. Build control first, then layer on speed and power. 23:26 – Parkour Training as a Unique Learning Process Key Idea: Parkour introduced Tim to exploration, problem-solving, and adapting movement to different environments. Actionable Takeaways: Use obstacle-based tasks to force creative movement solutions. Train adaptability—don’t just repeat drills, but give athletes problems to solve. Embrace exploration: movement learned through play tends to stick. 31:41 – Balancing Intensity, Recovery, and Longevity in Training Key Idea: Tim highlights that chasing intensity every session can shorten careers—longevity requires balance. Actionable Takeaways: Periodize intensity with recovery—don’t redline every workout. Prioritize sustainability: ask “Can I do this 10 years from now?” Recovery practices are as important as the training itself. 42:08 – The Value of Gentleness in Building Strength Key Idea: Strength doesn’t always come from force—sometimes it’s built by gentleness, precision, and subtlety. Actionable Takeaways: Explore lighter, more mindful work instead of always going maximal. Recognize that gentleness can rewire coordination in ways brute strength cannot. Use precise, controlled practice as a pathway to more efficient power later. 53:30 – Using Constraints to Improve Movement Awareness Key Idea: Constraints—like limiting space, changing rhythm, or adding unusual tasks—help athletes discover movement solutions they wouldn’t otherwise find. Actionable Takeaways: Introduce constraints in drills to spark creativity and awareness. Don’t over-coach—let athletes learn by solving the constraint. Rotate constraints to keep learning fresh and adaptable. 59:08 – Applying Martial Intent and Precision in Movement Key Idea: Martial arts taught Tim the value of intent—every move has a purpose and should be executed with precision. Actionable Takeaways: Encourage athletes to approach drills with clear intent, not autopilot. Borrow from martial training: precise repetition over sloppy volume. Treat even warm-up movements as chances to sharpen focus. 1:01:31 – Rope Flow as a Tool for Coordination and Rhythm Key Idea: Rope flow is more than a trick—it’s a way to sync rhythm, timing, and coordination through simple patterns. Actionable Takeaways: Add rope flow to warm-ups to build rhythm and flow-state awareness. Teach athletes a few basic patterns and let them discover variations. Use it as low-impact coordination work that translates to better timing in sport. 1:11:17 – Integrating Jump Rope and Rope Flow into Athletic Training Key Idea: Combining rope flow with jump rope creates a spectrum—jump rope for stiffness and rhythm, rope flow for fluidity and coordination. Actionable Takeaways: Use jump rope for plyometric stiffness and reactive rhythm. Use rope flow for multi-planar coordination and smooth sequencing. Alternate between the two depending on the training emphasis of the day. Tim Shieff Quotes “Yoga gave me a way to keep moving through injury—it wasn’t about doing less, it was about moving differently.” “When you slow things down, you start to feel the sequencing. That’s when you notice where the leaks are.” “Parkour taught me adaptability. It’s not about repeating drills, it’s about solving problems in movement.” “If you chase intensity every session, you won’t last. Longevity comes from balancing work with recovery.” “Strength doesn’t always come from force. Sometimes it comes from gentleness and precision.” “Constraints are teachers. When you take options away, athletes discover new solutions on their own.” “You have to train both ends of the spectrum—the slow and the fast, the gentle and the intense.” “Martial intent is powerful. Every move should have purpose, not just be going through the motions.” “Rope flow is rhythm in motion—it’s about learning how to coordinate without overthinking.” “Jump rope gives you stiffness, rope flow gives you fluidity. Together, they balance each other.” About Tim Shieff Tim Shieff, founder of Way of the Rope, is a former world champion freerunner turned movement innovator. Born in Connecticut in 1988 and raised in Derby, England, Tim first expressed his athletic creativity through breakdancing before transitioning into a professional freerunning and parkour career. He rose to prominence by winning the 2009 Barclaycard World Freerun Championship and competing in international events like Red Bull’s Art of Motion, along with TV appearances on MTV’s Ultimate Parkour Challenge, American Ninja Warrior, and Ninja Warrior UK, where he captained Team Europe in the USA vs. The World specials. After years of competition, Tim began struggling with chronic injuries, which led him to explore biomechanics and new approaches to movement. In 2018, he discovered Rope Flow through inventor David Weck, an experience that became a turning point in his career. Inspired by the practice’s ability to restore rhythm, coordination, and flow, Tim trained extensively with Weck before bringing his own vision to life. In 2020, with Weck’s blessing, he launched Way of the Rope, an educational platform built around programs such as “8-Weeks to Fluidity,” which help people rediscover athleticism and body awareness through rope-based movement. Beyond physical training, Tim’s philosophy is rooted in simplicity and sustainability. He believes in the mantra, “Low tech equipment = high tech body,” and his team crafts ropes from recycled materials with biodegradable packaging, reflecting a deep commitment to both people and the planet. By making his work accessible worldwide and offering flexible pricing to those in need, Tim has transformed Way of the Rope into more than just a training method—it is a mindful, ethical practice dedicated to helping individuals move with freedom, fluidity, and purpose.