Smarter High School Strength & Conditioning with Scott Leech

In Episode 428 of the Strength Coach Podcast, host Anthony Renna chats with Scott Leech, Associate Director of Strength and Conditioning at the University of Rhode Island, to explore game-changing strategies for coaches, trainers, and athletes. The focus is on High School but Episode 428 is for everyone, packed with insights to help you rethink your approach to training and athlete development.Highlights of the episode:- Scott talks about why prioritizing speed, power, and jump training is replacing outdated max-effort lifts.- A chat on programming smarter workouts and what strength coaches should subtract for better results.- Insights on developing high school strength coaching programs with limited resources.- How contact prep programs improve athlete confidence and safety in off-season training.- Exploring bilateral vs. unilateral work, and why Olympic lifts might not be essential for everyone.- A special discussion on IU football’s shortened practice approach and its impact on performance.- Brought to you by Perform Better, offering 20% off bands and tubing products—check them out today at www.PerformBetter.com!We also dive into how Scott’s Gridiron Warrior platform is helping coaches elevate their training systems, plus tips for leveraging education and creativity to optimize training without breaking the bank.Perform Better, your go-to for functional training and rehab equipment. Check out Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale- 20% off bands and tubing products!Thanks for listening! Engage with this episode and get ready to rethink strength training for smarter, more effective results.----------------------------------------------------------------------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 Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)----------------------------------------------------------------------CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:20 - Maximizing the Member Experience, with Naamly08 :20- Scott Leech interview10:25- What’s Wrong with High School S&C?14:37 - Importance of Subtraction in Training17:10 - Strength Coaches' Essential Practices19:31 - Coaching High School Coaches Effectively23:10 - Contact Preparation Techniques27:33 - Less is More Philosophy in Training31:58 - Educating High School Coaches37:15 - Benefits of Single Leg Training40:38 - Speed and Explosiveness vs. Heavy Lifting42:40 - Incorporating Olympic Lifts45:18 - Financial Success as a Strength Coach50:39 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome54:00 - Gridiron Warrior Insiders Insights

Welcome to Episode 427 of the Strength Coach Podcast.  Host Anthony Renna chats with Coach Mike Boyle about impactful coaching techniques and shares insights to help trainers, strength coaches, and gym owners elevate their practice. Highlights of the episode include:- A chat about lifting heavy with adult female clients, addressing misconceptions and promoting safer, smarter alternatives.- John Wooden's 'Do This, Don’t Do This, Do This’ coaching method and why it's a game-changer for visual learners.- Being Contrarian- is it always bad?- Breaking down the debate of "exercise vs. pattern"—what truly matters for effective training.- Business tips from Business for Unicorn’s Mark Fisher on humility, behavior change, and optimizing your environment for success. **Win a ticket to the Business for Unicorn’s upcoming Retreat!  Details are in the segment!Brought to you by Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and thought-provoking discussions to help you build a thriving gym and community.Perform Better, your go-to for functional training and rehab equipment. Check out Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale on PB Extreme Foam Plyo Boxes, the Bosu Ball, Select Dumbbells and Kettlebells, and their exclusive HYROX collaboration!----------------------------------------------------------------------**Win a ticket to the Business for Unicorn’s upcoming Retreat!  Details are in the segment!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 Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)------------------------------------------------------------------------------Discover new ways to inspire and educate your clients while creating a safer and more effective training environment. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments and tune in for more episodes! Thanks for listening!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:11 - Business for Unicorn’s Segment10:02 - Coach Boyle's Segment11:30 - Wooden’s “Do This, Don’t Do This, Do This” Coaching15:22 - Importance of Reps Near Failure19:13 - RPE for Advanced Lifters26:53 - Embracing Contrarian Views31:14 - The Business of Training35:48 - Exercise vs. Movement Patterns39:22 - Misjudging Client Needs40:35 - Elderly Mobility Training42:47 - Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Episode 426 of the Strength Coach Podcast is here! Join host Anthony Renna as he chats with Mike Boyle about smarter strategies for managing athlete training without overloading. Highlights of this episode include:  - Insights from Coach Boyle on how to balance training stressors and avoid unnecessary overload.  - A discussion his most underrated exercise- What he thinks about the Trap Bar Kickstand Deadlift   - Business for Unicorns tips from Mark Fisher on optimizing gym models, pricing, and space utilization for a successful fitness business.  - Personal stories from Coach Boyle’s visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame, celebrating connections and pinch-me moments.  We spoke about practical ways to approach athlete conditioning, the importance of understanding recovery and stress management, and how good coaches can avoid grinding athletes down with excessive volume.  Brought to you by Perform Better, your go-to for functional training and rehab equipment. Check out Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale on PB Extreme Foam Plyo Boxes, the Bosu Ball, Select Dumbbells and Kettlebells, and their exclusive HYROX collaboration!--------------------------------------------------------------------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 Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)--------------------------------------------------------------------Don’t miss this engaging episode packed with actionable strategies and inspiring stories. Thanks for listening!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro02:31 - Business for Unicorns: Model Optimization09:49 - Coach Boyle's at the Hockey Hall of Fame14:41 - Lifelong Learning in Coaching15:32 - Knowing Your Limits in Training18:20 - Perception vs. Reality in Fitness21:18 - Boosting Instagram Views25:08 - Trap Bar Kickstand Deadlift thought27:35 - Progressing Psoas Exercise Techniques28:14 - Slideboard Lunges Explained33:00 - Understanding Stress in Training38:35 - Balancing Fitness and Life42:17 - Language of Longevity in Wellness43:58 - Thanks for Joining Us

Episode 425 of the Strength Coach Podcast brings you a crucial discussion on fitness mistakes that crush progress after 50! Hosted by Anthony Renna, this episode features Chad Landers, founder of Push Private Fitness and author of "Building Strength and Muscle After 50." Together, we explore game-changing strategies for training smarter, not harder, as you age.Highlights of the episode:- The BIG mistake many make after 50 and how to avoid it- Training considerations for the 50+ crowd: frequency, intensity, and programming- Why training heavy (but not too heavy) is essential for longevity and resilience- The importance of nutrition and how medications can impact your diet and performance- Stories of clients thriving in their 70s and beyond through consistent training- Insights from Chad’s new book, written for Gen X and beyond with '80s pop culture flair!Plus, we talk about the evolution of fitness trends, overcoming obstacles to exercise, and how personal trainers can connect authentically with their clients.Brought to you by Perform Better, your go-to for functional training and rehab equipment. Check out Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale on PB Extreme Foam Plyo Boxes, the Bosu Ball, Select Dumbbells and Kettlebells, and their exclusive HYROX collaboration!Don’t miss this engaging, practical, and inspiring conversation packed with actionable advice. Thanks for listening, and be sure to check out the full episode for more tips to stay strong for life! CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro02:58 - Chad Landers Interview04:58 - Overview of The Book11:04 - Cardio in the 80s and 90s14:56 - Training After 50: Key Strategies20:24 - Importance of Tracking Workouts24:10 - Long-term Fitness Commitment26:50 - Understanding Your Client's Needs28:40 - Chad's Session Prep Techniques31:50 - Medications Impact on Training37:00 - Nutrition as a Lifestyle Choice42:15 - Training Heavy: Guidelines43:19 - Defining "Heavy" for Older Adults46:42 - Imposter Syndrome in Fitness47:31 - Effective Warm Up Techniques53:45 - OUTRO----------------------------------------------------------------------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 Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)

In this special anniversary episode of the Strength Coach Podcast (#424), Host Anthony Renna and Mike Boyle discuss Coach Boyle’s recent visit to a few gyms in Nashville, Ridiculous HIIT recommendations, Voodoo Flossing, the value of isolated shoulder work and whether or not you should put the barbell bench press to bed.Brought to you by Perform Better, experts in functional training and rehabilitation.Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.Highlights of the episode:  - A heartfelt tribute to Rob Milani and his impact on the fitness community.  - A chat about Coach Boyle’s recent gym visits in Nashville with Gunnar Peterson and Brian Kula.  - We spoke about the controversial discussion: Is it time to put the barbell bench press to bed?  - Navigating the ridiculous recommendations by influencers- Tips on using isolated shoulder work and the growing popularity of voodoo flossing for joint relief.  - Why and How Coach Boyle is using Voodoo Flossing- Business for Unicorns segment with Mark Fisher exploring goal-setting frameworks inspired by “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”  Get Mark’s goal-setting framework by emailing him at [email protected] 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 Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing) Whether you're a trainer, strength coach, or fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable lessons, heartfelt reflections, and game-changing training strategies. Don’t miss out!Thanks for listening—be sure to check out the full episode and join the conversation in the comments!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:59 - 18 Year Anniversary Celebration04:59 - Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Power Play Insights09:46 - Coaches Corner with Coach Boyle10:25 - Coach Boyle Visits Other Gyms in Nashville15:38 - 4x4 HIIT Training protocol19:54 - How Hard Should You Train Effectively20:42 - Defining "High" Intensity for Adults22:00 - Starting with 10:20 intervals23:20 - Why Adults Dislike Intervals24:10 - Making Hard Workouts Manageable27:10 - Individual Reactions to Hard Exercise28:20 - The Best Exercise for Everyone31:50 - Effective Shoulder Training Techniques36:20 - Benefits of Hanging Exercises37:54 - Flossing for Mobility40:41 - Thanks and Closing Remarks

Unlock the power of Pain-Free Performance! In this episode, host Anthony Renna welcomes Dr. John Rusin, founder of the Pain-Free Performance Certification, for an in-depth discussion on the essential components of pain-free training and sustainable performance.Brought to you by Perform Better, experts in functional training and rehabilitation.Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.Highlights of the episode:- **Pain-Free Training Philosophy**: Dr. Rusin explains why reducing pain and improving movement quality are critical before pursuing fitness goals.- **The 6 Foundational Movement Patterns**: Squat, hinge, lunge, push, pull, and carry—learn how they form the backbone of efficient human movement and their role in building strength, mobility, and balance.- **6-Phase Warm-Up System**: A quick, effective warm-up strategy to maximize performance, reduce injury risk, and prepare for any workout in just 10-12 minutes.- **Breathing Techniques for Performance**: Discover six unique breathing methods, from rhythmic breathing to tactical breathwork, to enhance recovery, stability, and strength.- **Programming Insights**: Dr. Rusin shares his 6x6 Protocol, combining movement patterns and physical characteristics like power, strength, and mobility for a balanced and effective training plan.- **Practical Takeaways**: From addressing chronic pain points to optimizing your training for long-term health, this episode is packed with actionable advice for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike. We also chat about Dr. Rusin’s groundbreaking book, "Pain-Free Performance," featuring templates, QR-coded exercise demonstrations, and strategies to customize training for every individual.-Sumit Seth from Naamly discusses whether or not Structure really does equal freedom and how the concept can help free up time and help you work on what matters most, Building Relationships.  https://www.Naamly.comDon’t miss this opportunity to redefine your training strategy with proven systems and expert insights.Thanks for listening! Make sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more expert tips and strategies to master your movement and performance.CHAPTERS:1:00   - Intro04:14 - Maximizing the Member Experience with Sumit Seth of Naamly08:45 - Dr. John Rusin on his New Book16:16 - Overview of Pain-Free Performance21:53 - Key Pillars of Pain-Free Training27:15 - Breathing Techniques for Performance34:15 - 6-Phase Dynamic Warm-Up Explained40:46 - The 6 Foundational Movement Patterns42:58 - Pain-Free Performance Programming Strategies48:11 - Book Programs & Templates Overview51:21 - John's Final Thoughts52:05 - OutroWant 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 Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)

Welcome to Episode 422 of the Strength Coach Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Coach Michael Boyle to uncover the highlights of mastering Nordic exercises and avoiding common mistakes that can hinder performance, insights into barbell straight-leg deadlift techniques, unilateral hip lifts, and the Spanish split squat for knee pain and post-surgery rehab. Brought to you by Perform Better, experts in functional training and rehabilitation.Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education.We spoke about:- The importance of perfecting posture and motor control before progressing with Nordics.- A step-by-step Nordic progression plan, including hamstring isos and eccentric training.- Key mistakes to avoid, such as hip flexion and improper alignment, and how to fix them.- Why glutes, hamstrings, and core engagement are essential for Nordic success.- Additional insights into barbell straight-leg deadlift techniques, unilateral hip lifts, and the Spanish split squat for knee pain and post-surgery rehab.- Special Business for Unicorns segment with Mark Fisher sharing Retention Strategies for gym owners, and the growing importance of personalized client experiences.This episode is packed with actionable tips for coaches, trainers, and fitness enthusiasts looking to up their game.Don’t miss out on expert advice and new approaches to elevate your fitness routine. Thanks for listening, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!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 Fisher’s channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing) CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro02:33 - Mark Fisher - Retention Strategies09:37 - Mike Boyle - Peter Attia Roundtable Discussion20:30 - Instagram Marketing Lesson 10123:45 - Hamstring Isometric Exercises26:30 - Single Leg Straight Leg Deadlift Technique31:14 - Best Exercise You Aren't Doing Yet31:49 - Importance of Exhaling Hard34:33 - Push Through the Heel Technique39:33 - Footwear for Spanish Squat40:37 - Closing Remarks

Episode 421 of the Strength Coach Podcast is here! Host Anthony Renna and Mike Boyle dive into why strength coaches should *stop copying track coaches* and focus on what truly works for their unique needs. This insightful episode, brought to you by Perform Better, is packed with practical advice and expert discussions. 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.**Highlights of the Episode:**- Why copying track coaches might not work for strength training—time constraints and priorities explained.- A chat with Coach Mike Boyle discussing pogo jumps and their place (or lack thereof) in strength training programs.- Exploring single-leg exercises: how to program them effectively and avoid pairing mistakes.- Upper body power training alternatives: med ball work, plyo-bench press, and smarter strategies.- Special Business for Unicorns segment with Mark Fisher sharing time management tips to help coaches and gym owners tackle overwhelm.**What’s New and Noteworthy:**- Fresh insights on balancing jumps, sprints, and strength in limited workout times.  - A candid conversation on adapting training methods to avoid injuries while maximizing performance.  - Practical solutions for coaches seeking alternatives to med ball training or looking to optimize their programming.Whether you’re a seasoned coach, trainer, or fitness professional, this episode has actionable takeaways to elevate your approach. Thanks for listening to Episode 421—don’t miss out on these game-changing tips!———————————————————————————————Join Certified Functional Strength Coach and Business for Unicorns for a FREE webinar on Thurs Sept 18 at 4p ET:The Missing Piece: Consistently Excellent Training SessionsClaim Your Free Spot HERE- https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XwYLXLwXS6mja_XdoaPcUQ#/registration———————————————————————————————CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:27 - Business for Unicorns segment with Mark Fisher09:19 - Coach Boyle's Training Philosophy17:19 - Effective Exercise Pairing Techniques18:09 - Pairing the Big 3 Single Leg Exercises24:59 - Essential Coaching Cues for Trainers28:50 - Bench Press Alternatives Explained29:40 - Med Ball Bench Press Benefits33:10 - Mark Bell's Slingshot Overview

Welcome to Episode 420 of the Strength Coach Podcast! In this exciting chat and tour of grip training and rock climbing secrets, host Anthony Renna sits down with Collin McGee, fitness director at Alliance Fitness Center and a Camp 4 Human Performance rock climbing coach. Brought to you by PerformBetter.com, this episode reveals how grip strength training can revolutionize performance across all sports—not just rock climbing.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.Highlights of the episode:  - **Rock Climbing Insights**: Collin explains how unique grip training techniques from rock climbing can improve overall strength and endurance for athletes in sports like football, baseball, and Jiu-Jitsu.  - **Grip Training Secrets**: Learn why traditional grip exercises (like deadlifts and pull-ups) may miss the mark and how to incorporate finger-intensive exercises and nuanced approaches.  - **Injury Prevention & Recovery**: We spoke about common tendon and ligament injuries, like tennis elbow, and explored strategies to build resilience and recover smarter.  - **The Science of Strength**: Discover how unique hand positions, overcoming and yielding isometrics, and progressive training can make a difference in performance on and off the wall.  - **Warm-Up Strategies**: Collin shares his go-to warm-up routines for grip, forearm, and shoulder activation, ensuring athletes are ready to tackle any challenge.Collin’s journey from collegiate baseball to rock climbing coaching and his emphasis on blending sport-specific training with general movement will leave you inspired to push your limits.Don’t miss this deep dive into grip strength training secrets and rock climbing techniques that can elevate every athlete’s game. Thanks for listening—be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below!———————————————————————————————Join Certified Functional Strength Coach and Business for Unicorns for a FREE webinar on Thurs Sept 18 at 4p ET:The Missing Piece: Consistently Excellent Training SessionsClaim Your Free Spot HERE- https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XwYLXLwXS6mja_XdoaPcUQ#/registration——————————————————————————————CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro03:17 - Sumit Seth on Getting Unstuck10:00 - Collin McGee interview14:57 - CFSC for Rock Climbers19:35 - Understanding Grip Training25:00 - Body Awareness in Grip Training28:36 - Injury Prevention Strategies31:16 - Fingers Off the Wall Technique36:20 - Overcoming vs Yielding Isometrics39:40 - Grip Training in Other Sports40:16 - Effective Grip Training Methods45:32 - Integrating Grip Training into Your Program50:18 - Lessons from Climbing Injuries58:03 - Tendon and Ligament Injury Healing1:03:42 - Proper Warm-Up Techniques1:08:13 - Closing

Welcome to Episode 419 of the Strength Coach Podcast, brought to you by Perform Better—the experts in functional training and rehabilitation!  **Highlights of the Episode:**- **Gym Culture as a Differentiator:** Pete Dupuis shares why a strong gym culture is your ultimate competitive advantage and how to create an experience that builds client loyalty.- **3 Actionable Tips for Success:** Learn how to codify what good looks like, craft a welcoming onboarding experience, and consistently reinforce positive cultural habits within your team.-**Manual Assessments- are they necessary and is it in our Scope of Practice (and what does that even mean)- **Foam Rolling & Massage Guns Debate:** Coach Boyle addresses the latest findings on their impact on performance and shares his take on this heated topic.- **Ground Reaction Forces:** Explore insightful data about jumping mechanics and how it can shape your training programs.- **Business Advice from Industry Leaders:** Gain valuable insights on managing gym operations and standing out in a competitive market.———————————————————————————————Join Certified Functional Strength Coach and Business for Unicorns for a FREE webinar on Thurs Sept 18 at 4p ET:The Missing Piece: Consistently Excellent Training SessionsClaim Your Free Spot HERE- https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XwYLXLwXS6mja_XdoaPcUQ#/registration———————————————————————————————Thanks for tuning in! 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.