CAP 281: Breaking Down 2026 Fitness Trends - with Tyler Cooke | 15 January 2026

In this episode of the Conquer Athlete podcast, Ryan and Conquer Help dive into the evolution of coaching in the fitness industry, reflecting on their experiences from the early days of CrossFit to the present. They discuss the importance of understanding each modality in its purest form, emphasizing that a solid foundation in singular sports can enhance coaching effectiveness in mixed-modal training. The conversation also touches on the significance of a growth mindset for coaches, encouraging continuous learning and adaptation to better serve their athletes. They explore the concept of Misogi, a challenge that pushes individuals out of their comfort zones, and how it can be integrated into coaching practices to foster resilience and personal growth.   Takeaways  Focus on how to train each modality singularly better. A growth mindset is crucial for coaches. Understanding fatigue is key to effective programming. Explore more to connect the dots in coaching. Don't just recite the 'Bible' of fitness; understand it.   Topics   From CrossFit to Coaching: Lessons Learned The Evolution of Coaching: Year One to Ten   Sound bites "What lessons have we learned from year one of coaching?" "You have to explore it, you have to do things." "Spend more time asking questions."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 01:02 Current Events in CrossFit 07:51 The Concept of Misogi 09:25 Coaching Evolution: Year One to Year Ten 45:44 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Coaches

In this episode, the hosts discuss the importance of community and respect in fitness, the balance between open gym culture and group classes, and the future of training trends. They explore the role of technology and AI in fitness, the significance of individualized programs, and the impact of attitude on gym culture. The conversation also touches on morning routines and the rise of jujitsu as a popular form of training.   Takeaways   The main goal of a gym is to help people get healthier. Balancing open gym culture with community is essential. Respect between different training styles fosters a positive environment. Individual design can coexist with group classes if managed well. Setting clear standards helps maintain gym culture. Competitors should respect the space of regular gym-goers. Attitude and respect are crucial in fitness communities. Technology is shaping the future of fitness training. AI can enhance personalized training but should not replace human connection. Morning routines can set the tone for the day. Topics Building a Stronger Community in Fitness Navigating the Balance of Open Gym and Culture Sound bites "Respect is key in a fitness community." "We can coexist together in the gym." "Jumping 50 times can wake up your system." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 03:06 Balancing Open Gym and CrossFit Culture 05:51 The Importance of Community and Respect in Fitness 08:37 Individual Design vs. Group Classes 11:28 Setting Standards and Expectations in the Gym 14:39 The Role of Competitors in the Gym Community 17:31 The Impact of Attitude and Respect in Fitness 20:19 Fitness Trends and the Future of Training 23:15 Exploring 2026 Fitness Trends 26:07 The Role of Technology in Fitness 28:53 The Balance of AI and Human Connection in Training 32:10 The Importance of Individualized Fitness Programs 34:59 Trends in Group Fitness and Community Events 37:43 The Rise of Jujitsu and Self-Defense Training 40:39 The Gimmicks of Fitness Trends 43:29 The Importance of Strength Training 46:29 Morning Routines and Jumping into the Day 49:19 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions  

In this episode of the Conquer Athlete podcast, Ryan Bucciantini and Jason Leydon discuss the current state of affiliate programming in the fitness industry. They explore how the rise of standardized programming from major companies may be stifling creativity and individuality in gym programming. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the specific needs and demographics of gym members, referred to as the 'avatar', and how tailored programming can lead to better outcomes for clients. They also highlight the significance of simplicity in program design, arguing that effective training does not need to be complex. The conversation wraps up with a call to action for gym owners to focus on their ideal clients and create an environment that caters to their needs. Takeaways Affiliate programming may be killing creativity in gyms. Understanding your gym's avatar is crucial for success. Not all gym owners need to write their own programs. Tailored programming leads to better client outcomes. Simplicity in program design is often more effective. The fitness community thrives on variety and creativity.Gym owners should focus on their ideal clients. Negativity in feedback often comes from a loud minority. Effective training doesn't need to be complex. Consistency is key for client success. Topics The Future of Affiliate Programming Understanding Your Gym's Clientele Sound bites "Who is your ideal client?" "Complex doesn't mean good.""Harder doesn't mean better." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Banter 03:56 The State of Affiliate Programming 11:51 Understanding Your Gym's Avatar 19:21 The Importance of Effective Programming 25:12 Simplicity in Program Design

In this episode of the Conquer Athlete podcast, hosts Jason Leydon, Tyler Cooke, and Ryan Bucciantini discuss various topics related to CrossFit, coaching strategies, and the future of fitness competitions. They delve into the reasons behind athlete dropouts from competitions, the importance of effective coaching, and the challenges of scaling workouts for different skill levels. The conversation emphasizes the need for coaches to be prepared and to understand the intended stimulus of workouts to better serve their athletes. They also touch on the significance of communication and trust between coaches and athletes, and the evolving landscape of the CrossFit Games.   Takeaways Copenhagen's appeal during winter is highlighted. Coaches need to have a structured lesson plan for classes. Scaling workouts should focus on skill acquisition and not just regression. Trust between coach and athlete is crucial for effective training. The importance of understanding workout stimulus for proper scaling. California's reputation as a challenging location for events is discussed. Athlete dropout rates are influenced by logistics and timing of events. The CrossFit Games remain the pinnacle of fitness competitions. Effective communication is key to successful coaching. Coaches should prioritize athlete development over simply completing workouts. Topics Navigating the Future of CrossFit The Art of Coaching in Fitness   Sound bites "Copenhagen's beautiful in the winter." "California is a dumpster fire." "The stimulus of this workout is X."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Host Introduction 02:03 Discussion on Athlete Dropouts and Event Logistics 05:20 The Future of CrossFit Games and Competitions 08:26 Coaching Challenges: Stimulus-Driven vs. Skill-Driven Scaling 17:14 Effective Communication and Trust in Coaching 24:05 Conclusion and Future Topics  

In this episode of the Conquer Alley podcast, hosts Tyler Cooke, Jason Leydon, and Ryan Bucciantini engage in a lively discussion about the transition from off-season training to competition preparation. They explore the mental and physical challenges athletes face when ramping up their training intensity, the importance of building a strong foundation, and effective programming strategies for long-term success. The conversation also touches on nutrition, recovery, and the mindset needed to thrive in competitive environments. Takeaways Transitioning from off-season to competition requires mental adjustment. Building back strength and endurance is a gradual process. Athletes must manage their expectations during training ramp-up. Base building is crucial for long-term athletic success. Programming should focus on volume before intensity. Nutrition plays a key role in recovery and performance. Mental resilience is as important as physical training. Athletes should embrace the boring aspects of training for growth. Long-term development requires patience and commitment. Effective coaching is essential for athlete progression. Topics From Off-Season to Competition: A Training Journey Building Strength: The Athlete's Path to Success Sound bites "The strongest foundation is key." "Winning is never boring." "Boring is a mindset choice." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 02:58 Transitioning Back to Training 05:50 Building Back Strength and Endurance 08:48 Managing Mental and Physical Expectations 12:00 Fatigue Management and Recovery Strategies 14:30 Ramping Athletes Back Up 18:01 Building Dynamic Volume and Efficiency 22:35 The Importance of Base Building 28:04 The Ugly Side of Training 29:49 Mindset and Long-Term Progress

In this episode of the Conquer Athlete Podcast, hosts Jason Leydon, Tyler Cooke, and Ryan Bucciantini engage in a candid discussion about the coaching profession, the importance of professionalism, and the dynamics between athletes and coaches. They share personal anecdotes, rants about job applications, and insights into the challenges faced by coaches and athletes alike. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountability, effective communication, and the art of coaching in high-pressure environments, ultimately highlighting the significance of preparation and mindset in achieving success in competitive sports. Takeaways Coaches should research the organizations they are applying to. Professionalism in communication is crucial for job seekers. Athletes need to take responsibility for their training and feedback. Coaching is about providing the right cues at the right time. The athlete-coach relationship should foster independence and confidence. Individual design coaching requires accountability and communication. Athletes must be willing to adapt and change to improve. Coaches should avoid over-managing athletes during competitions. Effective coaching involves understanding the athlete's mindset and needs. Preparation and focus are key to success in high-stress environments. Topics The Art of Coaching: Insights and Anecdotes Navigating the Coaching Job Market   Sound bites "You better say something, Tyler." "I feel like we're in weird mood." "I don't want to waste your time."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 03:01 Coaching Insights and Job Market Rants 05:53 Professionalism in Coaching Applications 08:37 Personal Experiences and Industry Challenges 11:42 Changes in Leadership and Coaching Dynamics 14:52 The Importance of Accountability in Coaching 16:07 The Challenges of Coaching Large Groups 17:40 The Role of Coaches in Athlete Development 19:20 Athlete Responsibility and Coach Education 21:21 The Importance of Adaptability in Athletes 23:55 The Dynamics of Coach-Athlete Interaction 25:57 The Art of Coaching in High-Pressure Situations 32:03 Finding Focus Amidst Competition Chaos 37:55 Conclusion and Future Discussions

In this episode of the Conquer Athlete podcast, hosts Ryan Bucciantini and Jason Leydon welcome Tyler Cooke, a CrossFit athlete and coach. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of pacing strategies in workouts, the role of coaching in athlete development, and the need for structured rest and recovery. They also discuss the phenomenon of 'cuckolding' in a humorous context, and how it relates to their previous discussions. The episode emphasizes the significance of learning from training experiences, particularly when athletes 'blow up' during workouts, and the necessity of balancing training intensity for long-term success.   Takeaways The loudest coaches aren't always the most experienced or knowledgeable. Training is a time for education and reflection. You cannot out tough your way to win; strategy is key. Finding the least amount of rest can optimize performance. You have to earn the right to train in dark places. Pacing is crucial; it's a math problem of who rests the least. Training should focus on efficiency, not just intensity. Athletes need to learn from their blow-up moments in training. The importance of structured rest and recovery cannot be overstated. Coaching should prioritize athlete development over just programming.    Topics Unlocking Athlete Potential with Tyler Cooke The Art of Pacing in CrossFit Sound bites "How do I rest the least?" "Training is a time for education." "You need to push the 80% up." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tyler Cooke 04:50 Cuckolding Conversations 10:47 Lowering the Bar in Fitness 19:10 Pacing and Strategy in Workouts 25:41 Pacing and Optimization in Workouts 27:24 Strategic Rest and Recovery 30:50 Learning Through Experience and Trial 33:50 The Importance of Reflection in Training 37:34 Understanding Athlete Capacity and Pacing 41:32 Building Team Dynamics and Leadership 44:29 Earning the Right to Push Limits

Summary In this episode, Ryan Bucciantini and Jason Leydon discuss the importance of structured programming in training, contrasting systems versus chaos. They explore the role of variance in exercise selection and the need for individualized program design. The conversation highlights the significance of having a game plan, understanding the timeline of training seasons, and the pitfalls of constantly varied programming without purpose. They emphasize the value of mentorship and the challenges of online programming in the fitness industry.   Takeaways   Structured programming is crucial for effective training. Variance in exercise selection can enhance athlete development. Individualized program design is essential for progress. Constantly varied programming should have a purpose. Mentorship is valuable for developing programming skills. Online programming presents unique challenges. Understanding training season timelines is important. A game plan is necessary for successful training. Exercise variation should target specific athlete needs. Communication with athletes is key to program success.   Topics    Mastering Training Systems: From Chaos to Structure The Art of Exercise Variance in Programming Why Individualized Program Design Matters Avoiding the Pitfalls of Randomized Training Mentorship: A Key to Programming Success Navigating the Challenges of Online Programming Training Timelines: Planning for Success The Importance of a Game Plan in Training Targeted Exercise Variation for Athletes Effective Communication in Program Design   Sound bites "Structured programming is crucial for effective training." "Variance in exercise selection enhances athlete development." "Individualized program design is essential for progress." "Constantly varied programming should have a purpose." "Mentorship is valuable for developing programming skills." "Online programming presents unique challenges." "Understanding training season timelines is important." "A game plan is necessary for successful training." "Exercise variation should target specific athlete needs." "Communication with athletes is key to program success."   Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Training Systems 00:00:00 The Role of Variance in Exercise 00:00:00 Importance of Individualized Program Design 00:00:00 Challenges of Online Programming 00:00:00 Mentorship and Skill Development 00:00:00 Planning Training Timelines  

Summary In this episode of the Conquer Athlete podcast, Ryan Bucciantini and Jason Leydon discuss the concept of progressive overload in training, particularly within the context of CrossFit. They explore how progressive overload extends beyond simply adding weight to exercises, emphasizing the importance of various training stimuli and the need for coaches to understand their athletes' goals. The conversation also touches on the significance of managing variability in training programs and the necessity of a structured approach to achieve desired adaptations. The episode concludes with an announcement about their mentorship program.   Takeaways Progressive overload is not just about adding weight. Coaches should focus on specific stimuli to improve athlete performance. Managing variability in training is crucial for tracking progress. Understanding an athlete's goals is essential for effective coaching. Progressive overload can include factors like duration, tempo, and complexity. Less variability can lead to better tracking of athlete progress. Athletes need time to adapt to training stimuli. The goal should remain consistent throughout training cycles. Coaches must avoid random programming to ensure effective training. Fatigue management is key to long-term athlete development. Topics Mastering Progressive Overload in Training The Art of Coaching: Beyond Just Weight Sound bites "The methodology checks half the boxes." "The priority stays a priority." "Progressive overload sounds like a super fancy word." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup 10:49 Understanding Progressive Overload 22:42 Applying Progressive Overload in CrossFit 34:10 Conclusion and Mentorship Announcement

Summary In this episode of the Conquer Athlete podcast, hosts Ryan Bucciantini and Jason Leydon engage in a lively discussion that ranges from sports rants and personal anecdotes to coaching philosophies and food preferences. They explore the challenges of individualizing coaching in group settings, the importance of understanding athlete needs, and the significance of creating an authentic coaching environment. The conversation is peppered with humor, personal stories, and insights into the world of fitness and coaching. Takeaways Hitting a baseball is considered one of the hardest tasks in sports. Fans often lack understanding of the complexities athletes face. Coaches should create an environment where athletes feel comfortable scaling workouts. Understanding individual athlete needs is crucial for effective coaching. Authenticity in coaching fosters better relationships with athletes. Food preferences can spark interesting debates and discussions. Consequences for actions are important in sports and life. Coaching should focus on movement quality and athlete enjoyment. Standardization in coaching can help maintain class quality. Creating autonomous athletes is a key goal in coaching. Topics From Strip Clubs to Coaching: A Wild Ride The Art of Individualizing Coaching in Group Settings Sound bites "You should get punched in the face." "You can only talk about it so many times." "Movement is the most important thing." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 02:50 Sports Rants and Fan Reactions 05:52 Strip Club Stories and Personal Anecdotes 08:54 Discussion on Entitlement and Consequences 11:34 Food Preferences: Chili vs. Cheese Fries 14:12 Pop Culture References and Recommendations 15:45 Home Security and Personal Safety 16:23 Unexpected Encounters: The Thrill of the Unknown 17:52 Individualizing Coaching in Group Settings 22:22 The Art of Coaching: Balancing Structure and Flexibility 34:15 Creating Autonomous Athletes: The Goal of Coaching