The Chop it Up Podcast

Choppin it Up w/Cody Lockling - Director of Sports Performance at University of Utah

Join us in Choppin It Up with Coach Zac and Parker's mentor, Director of Sport Performance at the University of Utah, Coach Cody Lockling!
In this episode we dive into Cody's experiences, the evolution of the strength and conditioning field, and the importance of supporting young coaches and interns. We discuss the challenges faced by new professionals, the transformation that occurs during internships, and the key principles that guide effective strength and conditioning practices. Prepare to hear about the nuances of coaching elite athletes, the challenges faced by young coaches, and the importance of creating a learning environment. We also share memorable training experiences, insights from internships, and the significance of adaptability in the coaching profession. 
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Coach Cody Lockling
12:06 Question of the Day: Tacos, Burgers, or Pizza
16:58 Responsibilities of A Director of Sports Performance
22:42 From Fitness Enthusiast to Strength & Conditioning Coach
30:21 The Importance of Interns in Strength and Conditioning
41:31 Key Principles of Strength Training in Collegiate Athletics
45:45 Learning from Experience: The Role of Coaches
01:07:44 Reflections on the Internship Experience

Reviewing Chris Bumstead's Training App

In this episode, we review Chris Bumstead's training app, exploring its features, and overviewing the pros and cons. We discuss the details of the programs and workouts within and give our insight on whether or not you should buy it.
Spoiler alert, CBUM is an amazing guy and competitor, his programs could use some adjustments though. Listen to find out which adjustments you should make if you decide to use the app!
 
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02:35 Question of the Day: Favorite Populations to Train
03:47 The Stakes of Training Operators
09:57 Training High-Level Individuals
11:21 Introduction to Chris Bumstead
13:36 Overview of Chris Bumstead's App
16:57 User Experience and App Features
20:56 Generalization vs. Individualization in Programs
24:00 Critique of Power Building Program
27:56 Pros of Tempo Training
32:05 Pros of the Training App
35:49 Understanding Training Principles
47:02 Evaluating the CBUM Program
54:58 Final Thoughts on Fitness Programs

Episode 32: From Training Football Players to Operators w/Chad Pearson

We are honored to welcome Coach Chad Pearson, a seasoned coach with a rich background in collegiate athletics and tactical strength and conditioning. We explore Chad's journey from college football to training our nation's Operators, discussing the challenges and demands of coaching in high-pressure environments. The conversation delves into the importance of family, the evolution of coaching philosophies, and the significance of building sustainable habits for long-term success. Chad shares insights on training strategies for athletes, particularly fighters, and emphasizes the need for consistency and adaptability in fitness. The discussion highlights the broader implications of coaching beyond physical training, focusing on personal growth and resilience.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Chad Pearson
06:47 Transitioning from College Football to Tactical Coaching
15:53 The Importance of Strength and Conditioning Beyond Fitness
19:12 The Role of Strength Coaches in Team Success
22:07 Ronan Sport Performance: A New Venture
25:01 Tailoring Training for Middle-Aged Athletes
36:28 The Role of Commitment in Coaching
39:20 Understanding Client Needs and Expectations
42:19 The Importance of Consistency Over Intensity
47:08 Mindfulness Through Heavy Lifting
53:57 Training for Specific Events

Episode 31: 2024 Reflections

Summary
Are y'all setting goals and reflecting on your previous year? Vulnerability, humility, and honest self-assessment is essential if you're going to grow. Solid friendships help this process...
In this episode, we reflect on 2024. We discuss favorite meals, favorite books, and lessons learned. We also go over some basic fitness questions that we get for listeners all the time. We set Chop it Up goals for 2025, emphasizing the significance of self-improvement growth. The goal is to spark thoughts. 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Reflection on the Podcast Journey10:55 - Reflection Questions50:38 - Fitness FAQs

Episode 30: How to Motivate Yourself and Others

In this episode, we discuss intrinsic motivation and to foster it in others. We share lessons learned from coaching experience as human performance in collegiate and professional athletics. The conversation delves into the Self-Determination Theory, highlighting the need for competence, relatedness, and autonomy in fostering intrinsic motivation. We also touch on the challenges of online coaching versus in-person training, and the role of accountability in maintaining motivation.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes
11:02 Role of Motivation in Coaching
15:57 Culture and Strength & Conditioning
35:59 Designing Programs to Maximize Motivation
47:09 Self Determination Theory - Intrinsic Motivation

Episode 29: Upgraded Supplements w/Jordan Adams

In this episode we welcome Jordan Adams, a knowledgeable guest in the field of supplements, particularly focusing on SARMs and peptides. Our conversation covers Jordan's background as a former Marine and his journey into the supplement industry, discussing the importance of understanding the use of various compounds for training and recovery. We discuss specific peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500, their benefits, and their side-effects. The episode also touches on the implications of using SARMs compared to traditional testosterone, emphasizing the need for education and caution in the use of PEDs. 
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jordan Adams20:26 Understanding Peptides and Their Benefits28:26 The Wolverine Stack34:08 Navigating Peptide Use Safely41:24 Understanding IGF-1 and Its Benefits43:20 The Natural vs. Enhanced Debate48:51 Diving into SARMs and Their Effects59:32 Practical Considerations for Using SARMs01:04:51 Closing Thoughts and Future Discussions

Episode 28: Friendship & Sweet Nothings

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Timeline
00:00 Welcome and Personal Updates07:05 Training Techniques =12:12 Social Interactions20:03 Navigating Professional Relationships in the S&C World27:53 Understanding Individual Needs in Training34:34 The Importance of Service and Relationships46:19 Addressing Men's Mental Health and Societal Issues51:20 The Balance of Personal Expectations and Service57:23 Navigating Friendship Dynamics01:03:07 Future Goals and Aspirations
 
Summary
Coach Parker and Zac discuss life. We delve into training techniques and the significance of friendships and social interactions. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on professional identity, mental health, and the importance of service to others. We conclude with aspirations for the future of their podcast and personal goals.
 

Episode 27: Dr. Merrigan Pt2

In this episode of the Chop It Up Strength Podcast, hosts Coach Parker & Coach Zac welcome back Dr. Justin Merrigan to discuss a variety of topics, including Thanksgiving grub, recent racing experiences, and upcoming challenges. Justin shares his insights on the importance of community in racing and the lessons learned from both successes and setbacks. The hosts discuss the intricacies of balancing endurance running with strength training, particularly for those interested in ultra marathons. Br prepared to hear personal experiences, training strategies, and the mental aspects of endurance sports.
 
00:00 - Introduction 06:58 - Question of The Day 18:34 - Race Recap26:40 - Reflections on Winning and Personal Growth38:46 - Balancing Running and Lifting: Training Strategies50:42 - The Journey to Consistency in Running57:13 - Progressive Training: Building a Strong Base01:02:39 - The 80/20 Rule in Running Training01:10:22 - Integrating Lifting with Running01:20:55 - Final Thoughts: Embracing the Pain of Progress

Episode 26: Supplements

Welcome to another episode of Chop It Up! In this episode, Parker and Zac take you on a deep dive into the world of dietary supplements — the land of mysterious powders, miracle pills, and promises that sound too good to be true (because they usually are). Whether you’re chasing that elusive six-pack, wondering if your multivitamin is secretly a time machine, and probably getting into some weird tangents about protein shakes that taste like regret. So, whether you’re trying to bulk up, slim down, or boost your energy for that 3 p.m. nap, tune in because we’re about to separate the science from the snake oil, one questionable supplement at a time. Grab your pre-workout (or don't — we don't judge), and let’s get into it!

Episode 25: Bro Splits vs Total Body

Do you do bro splits? Do you know what a bro split is? Or do you train total body? Wait, isn't every training session involve your whole body? Parker and Zac will explain and discuss both in depth. Discover if one approach is better than the other and what you should do!