The Strength Coach Podcast

In episode 413 of the Strength Coach Podcast, we chat with Jess Tollman, head of adult programming at MBSC, to uncover "The Key to Successful Adult Fitness Programming”

Brought to you by PerformBetter.com, this episode is packed with insights for coaches, therapists, and fitness enthusiasts looking to take their skills to the next level. 

**Highlights of the Episode**

- We spoke about the fundamental differences between adult and athlete fitness programming, focusing on risk vs. reward calibration.

- Jess shares her “recipe” for successful adult fitness, emphasizing mobility, strength, power, and conditioning while addressing common challenges like previous injuries and chronic pain.

- A deep dive into the progression and regression system: how to tailor exercises for diverse client needs within a group setting.

- Strategies for maintaining variety without sacrificing consistency, ensuring clients stay engaged and make measurable progress.

- The importance of coaching individuals within a group, creating a personalized experience even in a shared environment.

- Practical tips on fostering retention, tracking progress, and meeting adults where they are to build long-term fitness habits.

- Jess’s unique perspective as both a mental health counselor and strength coach, incorporating mindfulness and observation into coaching.

We also discussed:

- Coaching philosophies for adult clients and how MBSC balances elite athletic training with a growing adult population.

- How to keep fitness engaging and sustainable year-round for adult clients.

- The role of continuing education and communication in building a successful fitness business.

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A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Get ready to learn practical, actionable strategies to enhance your approach to adult programming. Whether you’re a coach, trainer, or just someone passionate about fitness, this episode delivers valuable takeaways.

Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to check out more episodes for expert advice and inspiration.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

03:42 - Jess Tollman Interview

05:48 - Successful Adult Programming Strategies

08:51 - Risk vs Reward Calibration

13:41 - Coaching Individuals in Group Settings

17:10 - Tracking Progress Effectively

21:20 - Variation in Training Methods

27:10 - Importance of Tracking Progress

33:20 - Mental Health Counseling Impact on Coaching

39:34 - Get Back Into It Workout Tips

40:40 - Consistent Coaching Message

43:38 - Workout Intensity Guidelines

46:10 - Selling Quality of Life Benefits

50:34 - Her Journey to Current Position

53:17 - Entry into the Industry

55:20 - Client-Centered Focus

57:50 - Being Present in Coaching

01:01:44 - Acknowledging Mistakes

01:03:40 - Wrapping Up Discussion

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Next episode will feature the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.

Want to build a fitness business that creates more income, impact, and freedom?

Here are some FREE biz-building resources from our friends at Business for Unicorns (https://businessforunicorns.com):

**Get the Little Book of Gym Marketing Secrets HERE- (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/gym-marketing-book)

**Book a free 10-minute intro call HERE (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/brainstorm)

**Follow BFU on Instagram HERE (https://www.instagram.com/businessforunicorns/)

**Subscribe to Mark's channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)

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Episode 412 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by Perform Better, dives into the hot topic of "Injury Prevention vs. Reduction"

Host Anthony Renna chats with Coach Boyle to break down this often-misunderstood debate.

**Highlights of the Episode:**

- A thorough discussion on why injuries can’t always be prevented but can potentially be reduced.

- Insights into the recent Tyrese Haliburton Achilles injury and its complex contributing factors.

- The role of training, load management, and mileage in injury risk for athletes.

- Coach Boyle’s personal experiences coaching athletes through injuries and reframing responsibility.

- A candid talk about steroid use among middle and high school athletes, and how the fitness industry can address it.

- Exploring conditioning standards and the importance of fairness with weight-class-based programming.

- The debate over focusing on athlete strengths vs. weaknesses and how to balance training for optimal performance.

**Unique Elements:**

Coach Boyle shares invaluable anecdotes and practical advice, offering a fresh perspective on training philosophies. 

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This episode also introduces a new segment, the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.

Want to build a fitness business that creates more income, impact, and freedom?

Here are some FREE biz-building resources from our friends at Business for Unicorns (https://businessforunicorns.com):

**Get the Little Book of Gym Marketing Secrets HERE- (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/gym-marketing-book)

**Book a free 10-minute intro call HERE (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/brainstorm)

**Follow BFU on Instagram HERE (https://www.instagram.com/businessforunicorns/)

**Subscribe to Mark's channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)

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Don’t miss this episode filled with expert insights, real-world examples, and actionable advice for athletes, coaches, and fitness professionals. Watch now and join the conversation! Thanks for listening!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

01:52 - Conditioning for Weight Classes

02:04 - Training Weaknesses vs Strengths

02:16 - Fitness Business Strategies

03:15 - Perform Better Techniques

05:03 - Overlooked Assets in Fitness Businesses

10:42 - Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay

11:12 - Tyrese Halliburton- Injury Prevention vs. Injury Reduction

19:19 - Level Up Your Training

24:00 - Steroid Use in Youth Sports

25:55 - Drug Use in Sports

31:05 - Conditioning Tests Explained

43:26 - Strengths vs Weaknesses in Programming

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A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Welcome to Episode 411 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, the Experts in Functional Training & Rehabilitation. 

In this episode, we explore why data can’t replace great coaching, featuring insights from Coach Mike Boyle. This episode highlights the growing reliance on data in coaching and why observation, listening, and trust remain fundamental.

Highlights of the episode:

- Coach Boyle talks about the shift toward data-driven methods and why human connection is irreplaceable.

- We spoke about tools like the force plate and their limited role without solid coaching foundations.

- A chat about the value of experience, progressive resistance, and effective communication with athletes.

- Insights on balancing technology with intuition to create better outcomes for players.

- A tour through key lessons from recent Perform Better summits, including standout presentations by top coaches like Nick Winkelman and Greg Rose.

This episode provides actionable advice for coaches looking to refine their skills, connect with clients, and make informed decisions without over-relying on data. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with practical tips and thought-provoking perspectives.

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A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights from top coaches and industry leaders.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

04:18 - Coaches Corner

06:34 - Value of Experience in Sports

17:40 - Transitioning from Athlete to Adult

18:50 - Actions Speak Louder than Words

20:40 - Qualities of a Great Coach

25:36 - Importance of Active Listening

27:57 - Improving Listening Skills

31:15 - Perception of Genius in Coaching

32:30 - Understanding Cause and Effect

35:50 - Conclusion

Episode 410 of the Strength Coach Podcast brings you a powerful conversation with world-class coach, trainer, author, and speaker Todd Durkin, who shares invaluable lessons on coaching greatness. 

Highlights of the episode:

- Todd talks about his latest book, *Coaching Greatness*, a coaching manifesto filled with principles and stories that define what it takes to be a great coach.  

- We spoke about the importance of coaching from the inside out and empowering athletes and clients to achieve their best both physically and mentally.  

- Todd shares how personal challenges, including overcoming burnout and physical pain, shaped his ability to coach at a deeper level.  

- Discover the mission behind Todd’s new fitness and coaching franchise, Impact X Performance, combining fitness, recovery, and life coaching in a faith-based approach.  

- Hear about the incredible work of the Durkin Impact Foundation, supporting education, mental health, and suicide prevention through scholarships and initiatives.  

This episode is a must-listen for coaches, trainers, and anyone passionate about making a difference in others' lives. Todd’s authenticity, energy, and commitment to changing lives will leave you inspired and ready to take your coaching to the next level.

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Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Thanks for tuning in! Don’t miss this incredible episode with Todd Durkin as we dive into the art of coaching greatness.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

01:09 - Todd Durkin: Coaching Insights

04:04 - Depth of the Valley: Overcoming Challenges

11:41 - Facing Challenges: Unique Perspectives

16:40 - Mentorship: The Power of Guidance

17:50 - Coach Wolf: Leadership Lessons

23:45 - Walking the Walk: Leading by Example

26:30 - Out Care Your Competition: Differentiation Strategies

29:50 - Great Coaches: Inside Out Coaching Philosophy

38:15 - Coaching Tree: Lessons Learned

41:33 - Impact X Performance: Enhancing Potential

50:18 - The Impact Foundation: Community Engagement

54:51 - Impact Foundation: Mission and Vision

55:16 - Last Words: Final Thoughts

55:41 - Let Me Know You Listened: Audience Engagement

Welcome to Episode 409 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, the Experts in Functional Training & Rehabilitation. 

This week, we’re diving into why consistency outshines complexity in training programs and how simple, effective methods can deliver long-term results.  

**Highlights of the Episode:

- Chat with Coach Mike Boyle: We spoke about the evolution of strength training program design, including updates to his classic book, now retitled "Strength and Conditioning Coaching," and insights on facility design, squat racks, and practical setups. 

- **Split Squat Strategies: Discover the benefits of bench block split squats for athletes with knee pain and how they serve as a tactile cue to improve form and reduce discomfort.  

- **Jim Wendler's Approach: We explored Jim Wendler’s philosophy on simplicity in training, highlighting his program’s success with high school athletes and the importance of stacking consistent, quality workouts.  

- **Event Spotlight: Perform Better's Functional Training Summit kicks off soon in Chicago, Long Beach, and Providence. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with experts and expand your knowledge!  

- **Maximizing the Member Experience: Sumit Seth from Naamly shares powerful tips on building deeper connections with clients through shared experiences and personal touches.  

We also touched on practical training techniques, the value of three-day total body workouts, and using fun, game-based conditioning to keep athletes engaged and motivated.  

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A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights from top coaches and industry leaders.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

03:44 - Member Experience Enhancement with Sumit Seth

09:38 - Mike Boyle Interview

13:43 - Strength Training Facility Design

15:58 - Knee Blocking Techniques with a Bench

20:43 - Jim Wendler's Program

22:04 - Simplifying Workout Programs

27:04 - Training Frequency: 3 Days vs 4 Days

29:52 - Optimal Training Days Per Week

30:34 - Conditioning Through Games

32:13 - Cardio Alternatives for Fitness

Welcome to Episode 408 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, the Experts in Functional Training & Rehabilitation. 

In this episode of the Strength Coach Podcast, we explore how Rett Larson is revolutionizing warm-ups with his No Zombies Method! Episode 408 brings you a deep dive into Rett’s game-changing approach to making warm-ups not only safer but also more dynamic and performance-enhancing for athletes.

**Highlights of the episode:**

- A chat and tour of Rett Larson’s No Zombies Method, designed to energize and engage athletes.

- We spoke about how traditional warm-ups have stayed the same for years and why it’s time to reimagine them.

- Insights into Rett’s structured warm-up blocks that combine creativity, stimulation, and athletic development.

- How to integrate fun, sport-specific drills and gamification into your warm-up routines.

- Rett’s journey as a strength coach for elite teams in Germany, China, and The Netherlands, and the advantages of working abroad in the fitness industry.

 **Unique takeaways:**

- Discover how Rett uses tools like tennis balls, Frisbees, and even Nerf footballs to spice up athlete preparation.

- Learn how warm-ups can go beyond injury prevention to actually build better, more explosive athletes.

- Practical ideas for incorporating speed, reaction training, and micro-dosed strength into your sessions.

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Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Ready to revolutionize your warm-ups and engage your athletes like never before? Watch now and join the movement! Thanks for listening!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

03:52 - Pete Holman Glute Drive Drop Sets 

05:24 - Rett Larson Insights

11:41 - Realizing the Need for Change

18:33 - Staying Active as You Age

23:45 - Barriers for Personal Trainers

27:11 - Structuring Effective Warmups

34:42 - Final Workout Block Overview

38:39 - Populations and Exercise Limitations

41:36 - Timing and Competition in Weight Training

48:15 - Ranking, Recording, and Publishing

48:56 - Incorporating Weighted Exercises

53:14 - No Zombie Concept Explained

57:55 - Experiences Working Abroad

1:03:15 - Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Welcome to Episode 407 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, the Experts in Functional Training & Rehabilitation. 

In this episode, expands on the Fred Duncan tweet that "Sprinting drives weights but weights won't drive sprinting."

Anthony Renna and Coach Mike Boyle dive into why strength alone won’t boost speed. 

Highlights of the episode include:

- **The relationship between strength and speed: Why getting stronger doesn’t always mean getting faster and how metrics like sprint times and vertical jump height should guide your program.

- **Injury prevention and movement variability: Insights into preventing Achilles ruptures and other injuries through smarter training and surface variability.

- **The role of Olympic lifting: Where it fits in speed and strength programming, and why it may not be essential for every athlete.

- **Speed as a performance driver: Why incorporating tools like Fly 10 sprints, jump mats, and sled sprints is key to optimizing performance.

We also touch on thought-provoking debates, including the “strong enough” concept and balancing strength training with speed work for injury-proofing athletes. Coach Boyle shares actionable tips for measuring progress and making data-driven decisions to ensure your program delivers results.

This episode is packed with expert insights, practical advice, and fresh perspectives on elevating athletic performance. 

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A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Thanks for listening! Tune in now for strategies to take your training to the next level! 

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

04:17- Pete Holman- Contrast Training on Glute Slide

04:59 - Performance Improvement

05:39 - Coach Boyle Insights

06:45 - Fred Duncan’s Tweet Analysis

16:40 - Importance of Common Sense

18:53 - Strength Training Fundamentals

19:30 - Defining Strong Enough

21:07 - Stopping Strength Training Discussion

22:08 - Olympic Lifting Relevance

25:46 - Understanding Achilles Ruptures

29:55 - Bike Transfer to Sprinting

32:40 - Slide Board vs. Bike for Hockey

Welcome to Episode 406 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, the Experts in Functional Training & Rehabilitation. 

In Episode 406 of The Strength Coach Podcast, we explore "The Future of Gyms: Fitness & Healthcare Unite " with special guest Mike Ranfone of Ranfone Training Systems (RTS). Mike shares his groundbreaking vision of blending fitness and healthcare to create a new paradigm in health and wellness.

Highlights of the Episode:

- Pete Holman shows us how to use the Glute Slide for Adduction (www.GluteSlide.com)

- A chat and tour into Ranfone Training Systems, where fitness meets healthcare like never before.

- Mike discusses "personalized medical performance" with offerings like blood panels, IV nutrient therapy, DEXA scans, V02 max testing, and more—all under one roof.

- Insights on the proactive health model and how collaboration between certified coaches and medical professionals is transforming outcomes.- Real-life success stories showcasing how clients are achieving peak health and performance at any age.

- Challenges faced in establishing this integrated model and the critical role of communication in its success.

We also talk about how this model represents the future of fitness and health centers, providing a comprehensive approach that prioritizes healthspan over just lifespan. Mike's dedication to empowering clients to take control of their health is truly inspiring!

-Sumit Seth of www.Naamly.com is back for a chat about the Hierarchy of Communication.

Enjoy the episode and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Thanks for listening!

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Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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CHAPTERS

:00:00 - Intro

03:56 - The Glute Slide Technique

05:18 - Mike Ranfone Insights

10:57 - Health Span vs Lifespan Discussion

13:29 - In-House Doctor Journey

18:44 - Overcoming Model Intimidation

23:10 - Mike’s Role Explained

24:20 - Staff Perspective on Changes

26:50 - Encouraging Collaboration

31:49 - Importance of Medical Intervention

35:20 - Addressing Obesity Epidemic

41:45 - Mike's Current Focus

43:39 - Personal Improvement Tips

47:30 - Naamly Segment- Gold Standard Communication

Welcome to Episode 405 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, the Experts in Functional Training & Rehabilitation. 

In Episode 405 of The Strength Coach Podcast, we tackle one of the most critical questions for fitness entrepreneurs: "What should you focus on first when starting a fitness business?" 

Highlights of the episode:

- **Why you should avoid spending too much on consultants early on:  Learn how to prioritize your resources and avoid the trap of "paralysis by analysis."

- **Focus on building your client base first:** Coach Mike Boyle shares insights on why having systems and processes can wait until you have clients walking through the door.

- **Lessons from industry veterans:  Real-life stories about starting small—from training in unconventional spaces to building a thriving business over time.

- **The importance of hiring the right people:  Coach Boyle reflects on past hiring mistakes and how finding the right cultural fit has made all the difference.

- **Training tips and techniques: A discussion on rear foot elevated split squats, when a little wobble is okay, and considerations for max heart rate training with clients over 60.

This episode is not just about business advice; it’s also about real-world coaching insights, making it perfect for fitness professionals at any stage of their journey.

Enjoy the episode and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Thanks for listening!

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Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

05:12 - Coach Boyle Insights

11:35 - Hiring the Right Talent

16:27 - Avoiding Consultant Overhead

22:45 - Embracing Minor Setbacks

26:35 - Unstable Surface Training Risks

29:46 - Achieving Max Heart Rate at 60

Welcome to Episode 404 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by PerformBetter.com, the Experts in Functional Training & Rehabilitation. 

In this episode, we discuss Pain-Free Quad Training and dive into strategies for building stronger, healthier quads during PFJ rehab while avoiding common pitfalls. Here's what we covered:  

- The importance of functional, closed-chain exercises like split squats for pain-free quad training during rehab.

- Why leg extensions might not be the best choice for those with patellofemoral joint pain—and what to do instead!  

- How to target quads effectively while addressing glute and hamstring strength for optimal knee rehab.  

- Conditioning strategies for youth athletes and how to balance sport-specific activity with functional fitness.  

- A discussion on attacking the hips and the role of hamstring strength in minimizing knee and back pain.  

Enjoy the episode and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Thanks for listening!

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Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

04:52 - Coaches Corner with Mike Boyle

07:13 - Mike Boyle on Patellofemoral Joint Health

15:30 - Understanding Hamstrings

19:12 - Addressing Hamstring Tightness

20:00 - Managing Back Pain

23:50 - Importance of Stability Work

26:30 - Overthinking Movement Patterns

28:14 - Anti-Rotation Exercises

30:05 - Conditioning Techniques

35:52 - Wrapping Up