All Things Strength & Wellness

This episodes guest is with my very good friend and fellow Irishman Dominic Munnelly. Dominic is one of Ireland’s leading personal trainers having worked in the business for over 20 years. He has supported many clients on their health and fitness journey advising them on training, nutrition, mobility and wellness and in the process helped people lose weight, get fit and lead a happier and healthier life. His background is Sports Science and as well as training clients, he co-owns a gym in Kildare with his brother. He is considered a leading authority on fitness and has appeared on television and spoken on radio many times. On this episode Dominic and I discuss: Dominic background and influences  Dominic and I share some thoughts on how we learn What are the good and not so good things that Dominic currently see's with the physical preparation and nutrition professions, and what solutions would he offer for the not so good things he is seeing Dominic and I discuss coaching burn out Dominic shares wit

PART 4 BABY!!  Pat and I are back with Part 4 in our MASS 2 series.  You can check out Part 1 - here, Part 2 - here, Part 3 - here. On this episode Pat and I discuss: Pat gives us an update on whats new  Pat fills us in about his hope to open his own facility and also speaks about a power metric device he is working on to measure an individuals work output in training Pat fills us in on his speaking engagements that he had coming up at the time of this recording Pat and I get onto a discussion about the design of the programs that make up the 16 weeks of MASS 2. Here we discuss the 30:30 day, and Alactic-Aerobic day of Phase one Pat tells us why trying to use percentages with 30:30 are pretty much useless Pat tells us why he still loves the 30:30 and why his loves Cal Dietz Tri-Phasic model within the first 3 phases of MASS 2 Pat discusses the sensory input benefits from utilizing Tri-Phasic Training Pat and I discuss dynamic systems theorys, quantative vs qualitive overload, overloading the perc

Sports performance consultant James Smith from Global Sport Concepts is back on with me for his monthly interview on the ATSW podcast. We were meant to talk about physical preparation for military operations, but we ending up having an incredible conversion on the importance of desegregating sports preparation and we also revisited the topic psychological preparation. As always this was another excellent episode with James.  This is definitely another one of my favorites epsiodes to date. Enjoy my friends. Stay Strong, RB   Show Notes: You can connect with James for consulting services here. James' outstanding books can be found here also. James Website James Twitter   ISI Symposium  Click here for the full details of the 2018 ISI Symposium. Use the code ISI50 to get a €50 discount code when you sign up for the event.    Show Sponsors: Ultimate Performance Online Mentorship To get INSTANT ACCESS to almost 20 hours of World Class online video Strength and Conditioning Information go to

This episodes guest is Jason Hettler from Altis. Jason is the Lead Strength & Power Coach at ALTIS. He holds his BSc. Exercise Science from Grand Valley State University. Jasin's previous experience includes work within the Olympic Strength & Conditioning department at Western Michigan University. Join the conversation with Jason via Twitter (@jhettler24) or his website Hettler Performance.   On this episode Jason and I discuss: Jasons Background and Influences What are the good and not so good things that Jason currently see's with the physical preparation profession, and what solutions would he offer for the not so good things he is seeing Jasons training philosohpy for elite track athletes Jason discusses the how the use of Zonal Intensities within the strength and power training of the athletes at Altis are used and how the zones of intensities are matched up with compatible training components from the track Jason shares with us the training system his utilizes at Altis and gives us an i

This episodes guest is Mike Tuchscherer. Mike is back on for a third time on the ATSW podcast.  Mike has previously been on thepodcast in episodes 57 and 113 On this episode Mike and I discuss: My Masters physiology essay assignment titled - "The physiological adaptations and determinants of maximum strength development in powerlifers" I ask Mike for his input and his thoughts around the determinants of maximum strength development and how one would try to overcome these limiting factors  Here we speak about - Intra and intermuscular coordination, neural inhibition, stretch-shorthening-cycle (SSC), hypertrophy, nutrition, drugs, and programming Mike gets into an extensive indepth discussion on how he has utilized Dr. Bondarchuk's training system with his powerlifting athletes  Mike talks about how the human organism is a non-linear entity and this impacts adaptation Mike discusses the responder types he has seen with using this Bondarchuk model Mike tells us his thoughts on using a Bondarchuk appro

And we're BACK!!!!  Pat and I are back with Part 3 in our MASS 2 series.  You can check out Part 1 - here and Part 2 - here. On this episode Pat and I discuss: Pat continues to tell us about his China trip - "Don't you wanna get on the Plane" - Too Funny Pat talks about " The reckoning seminar" he did with Bill Hartman and Doug Kechijian at Mike Ranfones facility We briefly talk about the importance of having contingency plans Pat discusses the connection between Jacksonian disillusion, polyvagul theory, and increasing Rate Pressure Product Pat speaks about the importance of the environment in optimizing size and strength gains Pat and I discuss how time is a very powerful constraint that can be manipulated within the training process Pat and I discuss the need to increase specific training volume as ones career progresses   This was an outstanding episode and I hope you all enjoy it as much as we did! Stay Strong, RB   Show Notes: Pat's Website MASS 2 Pat's Facebook The Reckoning   I

This episodes guest is Dr. Paul Comfort from the University or Salford Manchester.  Paul is the programme leader for the MSc Strength and Conditioning at Salford. While at the University his roles have included Head of Sports Science Support for Salford City Reds Rugby League Football Club (2008-2012), co-ordination of the Strength and Conditioning for England Men's Lacrosse (2008-2012), and he currently co-ordinates the sports science support for Sale Sharks RFU as part of their partnership with the University.   On this episode Paul and I discuss: Paul's background Paul's Influences  What are the good and not so good things that Paul currently see's with the physical preparation and sports science professions, and what solutions would he offer for the not so good things he is seeing Paul and I discuss about his recent book "Advanced Techniques in Strength and Conditioning" that he co-edited with Anthony Turner. Why they decided to take on such project? Paul and I discuss about his research around

This episodes guest is Ben Esgro from DeNovo Nutrition. Ben is the founder and CEO of De Novo Nutrition. The company has both consulting and supplement branches, based on objective science and ethical practice. Ben is a registered dietitian (RD), as well as having a Masters in Nutrition and Exercise Science (MS) from Marywood University. He has over 6 years experience of coaching and programming for individuals all the way from general population folks all the way up to elite competitors, such as IPF Worlds 2015 93kg silver medalist Layne Norton. In addition to being a highly-regarded coach, he is also an accomplished competitor as both a USBF Pro Qualified Natural Bodybuilder and an internationally qualified IPF powerlifter.   On this episode Ben and I discuss: Ben's background Ben's influences  Ben and I discuss how exactly dietary supplements are made What are the good and not so good things that Ben currently see's with the physical preparation and nutrition professions, and what solutions would h

Sports performance consultant James Smith from Global Sport Concepts is back on with me for his monthly interview on the ATSW podcast. On this episode James discusses the topic of sports preparatory engineering. This is a topic which James covers indepth in his book "The Governing Dynamics of Coaching". As always this was another excellent episode with James.  Probably one of my favorites to date to be honest. Enjoy my friends. Stay Strong, RB   Show Notes: You can connect with James for consulting services here. James' outstanding books can be found here also. James Website James Twitter   ISI Symposium  Click here for the full details of the 2018 ISI Symposium. Use the code ISI50 to get a €50 discount code when you sign up for the event.    Show Sponsors: Ultimate Performance Online Mentorship To get INSTANT ACCESS to almost 20 hours of World Class online video Strength and Conditioning Information go to upmentorship.com ALTIS ALTIS 360 ALTIS Foundation Course National Sports

This episodes guest is Coach Dan Fichter from wanna get fast. Dan Fichter owns and operates WannaGetFast Power/Speed Training, a sports performance training business in Rochester, NY and Tampa, FL that offers training to elite athletes. Fichter's clients have included pro hockey players, Olympic track and field athletes, pro baseball players, and MMA fighters, as well as coaching athletes in all sports from all over the country.  Dan is also in two different Halls of Fame for his own athletic prowess in football.   On this episode Dan and I discuss: Dans background Dan share with us his other personal and professional influences - such as Dr. Jack Kruse, Jay Schroeder, Mel Siff, Louie Simmons, Charlie Francis, Douglas Heel, and the infamous DB Hammer What are the good and not so good things that Dan currently see's with the physical preparation profession, and what solutions would he offer for the not so good things he is seeing Dan shares with us his training philosohpy - which is "train the brain" a

This episodes guest is Jonas Dodoo from Speed Works. Jonas developed as a coach through his passion for speed and power and was lucky enough to be under the tutelage of Master Coach Dan Pfaff for four years. Jonas has worked with many elite performers across a range of sports but with his main successors and main role within Track and Field. Jonas currently has an Elite Group of Sprinters based out of the National Institute at Loughborough and he is also currently Consulting at Premiership and Championship Football and Rugby clubs working with their staff and first team players.   On this episode Jonas and I discuss: Jonas' background Jonas and I discuss his about his experience being mentored under Dan Pfaff for more the 4 years Jonas share with us his other personal and professional influences What are the good and not so good things that Jonas currently see's with the physical preparation and sports medicine professions, and what solutions would he offer for the not so good things he is seeing

And we're BACK!!!!  Pat and I are back with Part 2 in our MASS 2 series.  You can check out Part 1 - here. On this episode Pat and I discuss: Whats new with Pat We talk about Pat's trip to China at the end of last year - this is a must listen! We get into Pat's top 7 piece's of advice to maximize mTOR upreguation in the quest to gain as much muscle and strength as possible We discuss concentric vs eccentric hypertrophy adpatations to the heart and how MASS 2 could potentially lead to an increase in both and thus incesase the hearts rate pressure product   This was an outstanding episode and I hope you all enjoy it as much as we did! Stay Strong, RB   Show Notes: MASS 2 Pat's Facebook   Show Sponsors: Ultimate Performance Online Mentorship To get INSTANT ACCESS to almost 20 hours of World Class online video Strength and Conditioning Information go to upmentorship.com ALTIS ALTIS 360 ALTIS Foundation Course National Sports Performance Association Certified Program Design Specialist

Sports performance consultant James Smith from Global Sport Concepts is back on with me for his monthly interview on the ATSW podcast. On this episode James discusses the concept of mentoring.  I personally asked James to speak about this topic as I feel he has some unique views to share.  As always this was another excellent episode with James.  Enjoy my friends. Stay Strong, RB   Show Notes: You can connect with James for consulting services here. James' outstanding books can be found here also. James Website James Twitter   Show Sponsors: Ultimate Performance Online Mentorship To get INSTANT ACCESS to almost 20 hours of World Class online video Strength and Conditioning Information go to upmentorship.com ALTIS ALTIS 360 ALTIS Foundation Course National Sports Performance Association Certified Program Design Specialist Certified Speed and Agility Coach Cerfitied Weightlifting Performance Coach Certified Sports Nutrition Coach   Athletes Acceleration Complete Speed Trainin

This episodes guest is John Quint.  John is a Neuromuscular therapist, Functional Range Release, Functional Range Conditioning and Active Release Technique provider, located in Columbus, Ohio, in the USA. John combines these forms of advanced soft tissue treatments to treat clients and patients who have musculoskeletal misalignment, myofascial pain and dysfunction. John is also the main Performance Therapist at Westside Barbell, where he helps all of Westsides athletes stay healthy, reduce injury potential, and effectively and efficiently rehab any athletes who are coming back from injury. On this episode John and I discuss: John's background John's influences What are the good and not so good things that John currently see's with the physical preparation and rehabilitation professions, and what solutions would he offer for the not so good things he is seeing John and I discuss the need to be as a objective as possible with the assessment process and why it is important to try and remove personal bi

This episode guest is Kevin Cann from Precision Powerlifting Systems. Kevin was previously on the show back on episode 26. Precision Powerlifting Systems is based out of Boston, Mass. Head Coach Kevin Cann leads the raw powerlifting team through individualized Sheiko-style programming leading up to local, regional, and national level USA Powerlifting meets. Coach Kevin has worked as a nutritionist and strength coach for several facilities in the greater Boston area including Harvard University and Total Performance Sports. He holds a master’s degree in kinesiology from A.T. Still University and a bachelor’s degree in health and wellness from Kaplan University. Coach Kevin is a lifelong athlete – he was a soccer player at the collegiate level and competed for 10 years as a professional mixed martial artist. Currently, Coach Kevin competes in the 105kg class in USA Powerlifting as a raw open lifter and has been under the tutelage of former team Russia powerlifting coach and coaching legend, Boris Sheiko, si

This episode, performance consultant James Smith from Global Sport Concepts is back on with me for his monthly interview on the ATSW podcast. On this episode James discusses the importance of grammar and communication within the govering dynamics of coaching. As always this was another excellent episode with James.  Enjoy my friends. Stay Strong, RB   Show Notes: You can connect with James for consulting services here. James' outstanding books can be found here also. James Website James Twitter   Show Sponsors: Ultimate Performance Online Mentorship To get INSTANT ACCESS to almost 20 hours of World Class online video Strength and Conditioning Information go to upmentorship.com ALTIS ALTIS 360 ALTIS Foundation Course National Sports Performance Association Certified Program Design Specialist Certified Speed and Agility Coach Cerfitied Weightlifting Performance Coach Certified Sports Nutrition Coach   Athletes Acceleration Complete Speed Training Complete Speed Games Complet

This episodes guest is Devan McConnell.  Devan McConnell is the Director of Sports Performance at UMass Lowell. At Lowell, Coach McConnell is directly responsible for all aspects of performance enhancement for the hockey team, including speed, strength, power, nutrition, and recovery. Prior to his time at UMass Lowell, Devan was a Sports Performance Coach at Stanford University. At Stanford, he oversaw the development of the Men's and Women's Volleyball programs, as well as the Women's Basketball team.   On this episode Devan and discuss: Devans background Devans influences Devan describes how Lowell have become one of the most most competitive teams in the Eastern Conference What are the good and not so good things that Devan currently see's with the physical preparation profession, and what solutions would he offer for the not so good things he is seeing Devan shares with us his Training Philosophy Devan lays out his Training System at Lowell Devan discusses how tactical periodization shapes hi

He's BACK!!!! Fuck YES!!!! My main Man Pat Davidson is back on the show to discuss everything about his epic ebook MASS 2.  This is only Part 1 of a number of episodes that Pat and I will be dedicating to MASS 2.  On this episode Pat and I discuss: Whats new with Pat We discuss creativity How MASS 2 came to be? Pat and I discuss the gift of the "Addict Brain" and dopamine Pat shares with us the 3 movies that inspired the conception of MASS 2 Pat shares with us how Mike Boyle, Val Nsedkin, Roman Fomin, Charlie Francis and Cal Dietz greatly influence the design of MASS 2 Pat and I discuss the hormone hypothesis of hypertrophy, and how it would seem that hormones are not as critical to the overall mucsle growth process as was once believed We discuss the microcycle set up utilized with MASS 2 which is a 4 day/ week set up that incorporates a 2 or 1.5 developmental days, a stimulution day, and an alactic-aerobic day Pat discusses the importance of recovery days for the upregulation of parasympathetic

This episodes guest is Phil Wagner of Sparta Science. Phil spent 8 years as a strength & conditioning coach at University of California Berkeley and University of California Los Angeles, including 3 National Championships, as well as a performance coach for the Canterbury Crusaders and the New South Wales Waratahs (professional rugby teams in New Zealand and Australia). Following his coaching career, he graduated medical school as a physician from University of Southern California, focused on studying biomechanics at their School of Physical Therapy’s Biokinesiology Lab. Dr. Wagner founded Sparta Performance Science in the Silicon Valley as a facility to directly measure and enhance performance alongside athlete resilience to injury. This business evolved to include a larger technology business, Sparta Software Corporation (est. 2012), which provides an athlete data management platform to establish evidence based practices within sports organizations. On this episode Phil and I discuss Phil's backgrou

This episodes guest is Nick Littlehales from sportsleepcoach.co.uk.  Nick is regarded as the leading elite sports sleep coach in world sport. A leading industry expert with over 30 years experience in the world of sleep, sleeping habits, and product design and over 15 years dedicated to elite athletes and professional sport. A former professional golfer, International Sales & Marketing Director of the Slumberland Group and Chairman of the UK Sleep Council, Nick has conducted many practical and clinical research projects into the varied sleeping habits adopted by the modern day sleeper and athlete. His unique and passionate techniques, products and proven approach are endorsed by leading professionals in world sport and business. Nick is also the author of Sleep - The Myth of 8 Hours, The Power of Naps, and a New Plan to Recharge your Mind and Body. On this episode Nick and I discuss: Nicks background Nicks influences Nick and I discuss the first 5 of the 7 key steps to optimize sleep and restor