Power Training Principles: Simplifying Speed Strength for Coaches

This week, we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood and underexplained topics in the strength and conditioning world: Speed Strength.

Steph leads a detailed, no-nonsense breakdown of what speed strength really is, how it relates to power, and why modern terminology often does more harm than good in the practical coaching space. From the science to the programming, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how to develop explosive athletes.

We cover:

• The evolution of speed strength terminology from Russian and European roots to modern performance science
• Clear definitions of explosive strength, starting strength, and reactive strength—and how each fits into power development
• The force–velocity continuum (simplified)
• Practical training strategies and specialty techniques
• Why hypertrophy and max strength still lay the foundation for meaningful power development
• Real-world coaching insights, including Steph’s experience training NFL All-Pro Steven Jackson

Want to go deeper? Check out:

• The Power Specialization Course (focused on power training in the weight room)
• The Sports Performance Seminar (for full-scale athletic periodization)
• The Specialty Techniques Course (60+ techniques, real-time applications)

00:00 Introduction to Speed Strength

00:45 Defining Power

02:47 Historical Perspectives on Power Development

04:29 Scientific Advances in Strength Training

06:36 Practical Applications in Coaching

12:48 Components of Speed Strength

19:15 Training Techniques and Modalities

24:56 Rate of Force Development and Velocity

32:38 Validating Session Improvements with Velocity

32:47 Using Accommodating Resistance for Explosive Strength

33:13 Maintaining Load and Tracking Velocity

33:55 Challenges with Velocity Zones in Team Sports

34:46 Leveraging Velocity Trackers for Progress

35:38 Power Training Essentials

37:53 Training Speed Strength for Athletes

38:53 Building a Foundation for Power Training

45:58 The Importance of Sequential Training

46:50 Specialty Techniques for Explosive Strength

56:35 Starting Strength Techniques

59:36 Reactive Strength and Plyometrics

01:04:23 Power Specialization Course Overview

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