Episode Summary

In this episode of the TSG podcast, host Arian is joined by teammate Coach Julianna to discuss two distinct but impactful topics: the strategic use of SBD (Squat, Bench, Deadlift) sessions and the evolving landscape for women in powerlifting.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Mastering the SBD Session: The coaches dive deep into programming sessions that include all three lifts. They debate the pros and cons, discussing how SBD days can benefit athletes with limited schedules as well as high-frequency training blocks. The conversation covers fatigue management, meet simulation, and real-world examples of programming for athletes like Sarah Brenner, Kwaku Nyarko, and Brittany Romas.
• Women in Coaching & Sport: Recorded around National Girls and Women in Sports Day, this segment explores the rise of female athletes and coaches in powerlifting. Arian and Julianna have a candid conversation about the biases female coaches face in the industry and the "strength bias" that often influences hiring decisions.
• Role Models: The hosts share the athletes who inspired them, ranging from powerlifting legends like Jen Thompson and Lya Bavoil to broader sports icons like Billie Jean King and the Williams sisters.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on optimizing training splits and supporting diversity in strength sports.

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https://powerliftingindata.com/

The Evolution of Powerlifting: Insights from the TSG Podcast

Welcome to another episode of the TSG Podcast, where your host, Arian Khamesi, is joined by Jason Tremblay for a deep dive into the dynamic world of powerlifting. In this engaging discussion, they explore the evolution of training methodologies, the impact of technology, and the rising popularity of raw powerlifting.

1. **The Early Days of Powerlifting**

Jason Tremblay reflects on his journey starting as a coach at the age of 19. He recalls a time when information about strength training was scarce, relying heavily on magazines and forums to learn about coaching. He emphasizes how different the landscape of powerlifting was in the early 2010s compared to now, with raw powerlifting beginning to emerge at the world championship level. This change has been accompanied by a significant evolution in the science of training.

2. **The Shift in Training Approaches**

Arian Khamesi shares his experiences from Florida State University, where he was part of a small weightlifting club. He highlights how lifters back then often followed popular programs like Starting Strength or Texas Method without much guidance from experienced coaches. Both hosts agree that the training culture was characterized by a trial-and-error approach, often influenced by what was trending in online forums.

3. **The Rise of High Volume Training**

As powerlifting gained traction, Jason mentions the influence of high-volume training programs, such as daily undulating periodization (DUP), which became popular due to their effectiveness in producing results. He notes that this era saw a shift towards more individualized training, moving away from template-based programming. Arian adds that many successful coaches from the bodybuilding realm transitioned into powerlifting, bringing with them a strong foundation in high-volume training.

4. **Innovations and Research**

The hosts discuss the groundbreaking research from Dr. Mike Zourdos' lab, which explored the limits of high-frequency training. Jason recalls how this research influenced training philosophies, showcasing the benefits of high volume and intensity. They also reflect on their personal experiences with coaches and how experimentation led to the development of effective training programs.

5. **The Impact of COVID-19**

Both Arian and Jason discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on powerlifting, noting a shift towards more individualized and RPE-driven training methods. They address the mixed reactions to high-volume training, especially regarding injury rates, and emphasize the need for continual improvement in training practices.

In this thought-provoking episode, Arian Khamesi and Jason Tremblay offer valuable insights into the evolution of powerlifting training methods. From the early days of trial-and-error programming to the rise of individualized training approaches, the landscape continues to change. As powerlifting evolves, staying informed and adaptable is crucial for athletes and coaches alike.

Key Takeaways:

- Powerlifting has significantly evolved from the early 2010s, with a shift towards more scientific and individualized training.

- High-volume training, particularly DUP, gained popularity due to its effectiveness in producing results.

- The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a reevaluation of training methods, leading to a focus on injury management and individualized approaches.

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https://powerliftingindata.com/