The Chop it Up Podcast

Memoirs of a Fitness Professional

Believe it or not, Fitness Professionals often find themselves in very odd scenarios. Tune in to hear about some of the situations Coach P & Z have found themselves in. You may not learn much, but I bet you'll laugh at Zac's stories... 

How To Build Your Own Program - Part 2

Summary
Welcome to part 2 of "How to build your own program" where we discuss how to build your own Mesocycle or better known as block / phase of training. Get your notebook about and be prepared to learn about the importance of progressive overload, refining training goals, and deciding how to split up your sessions during the week. This one is info heavy, so be ready!

Program Review: Pavel Tsatsouline - KB Clean & Jerk - Plan A

In this episode we review Pavel Tsatsouline's KB Clean & Jerk -  Plan A. Pavel is well known as a premier coach and pioneer in the use of Kettlebells for strength and conditioning training with combat athletes. If you listen to Joe Rogan, you've likely heard of him. We review the program, more importantly, the claims behind the program. Listen to see if his KB Clean & Jerk Plan A is something you want to give a shot!
 
Spoiler Alert - Program is fine, claims are audacious...

Dumbells vs Barbells vs Kettlebells - Which Tool is Better?

In this episode, we discuss to pros & cons of the Dumbell, the Barbell & the Kettlebell... Are any of them superior? Spoiler Alert: NO. But each tool does have specific areas of training in which it shines. Check out the episode to hear Coach Zac and Parker's insights of how they program with each tool. 
 
And if you haven't left us a 5-start review yet... Come on man? What's taking you so long?!?!?!?!
 

How to Build Your Own Program: Part 1

Summary
In this episode, we discuss part 1 of "HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN PROGRAM" - planning and logistics. We emphasize the need for a long-term perspective when setting fitness goals, the significance of social impacts on training, and the necessity of deloads in training. We will guide you through the process of building what is called an "Annual Plan" in collegiate S&C practices. Be prepared for some homework! 
 
Stay tuned for the following episodes of "How to Build Your Own Program" where will discuss how to build a phase of training, a week of training, and a day of training!
 

Choppin It Up w/The Ladies

Well... If you've ever wondered what it is like to be in a relationship with a fitness professional, look no further. In this episode you'll get a look into what it's like to live with Coach Zac and Parker through the lens of our ladies. Maja and Marlaina join us in a episode full of laughs, conversations about working out, and you bet your ass we put them through a quiz!!! 
Audio will be funky, sorry, first time having this many people.
Next episode will be informative, we promise!

Fitness for Basketball - Choppin It up w/Charles "Rock" Stephenson

Summary
 
We are STOKED to have another one of our mento’s Charles “Rock" Stephenson. We discuss Rock's journey in the field, the evolution of strength training programs, and the importance of building a strong team culture. Rock shares insights on training techniques for basketball players, the hesitancy some athletes have towards lifting, and the significance of being a good human being in coaching. We end the episode with some laughs and shared memories. Definitely a great episode to check out, hopeful y’all learn something! If not, you’ll at least see why Zac and Parker love hanging with Rock.
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
06:23 Early Career in Strength and Conditioning
11:38 Evolution of Strength Training Practices
20:31 Building a Strong Team Culture
33:46 Training Strategies for Basketball Athletes
37:19 The Evolution of Lifting in Sports
40:39 Challenges in Strength Training for Basketball Players
43:14 The Changing Landscape of Fitness Culture
51:55 Wrappin it Up (not like that you sicko)
 

Reviewing Strength Programs: 5x5, Texas Method, & Juggernaut

In this episode, we review various strength training methodologies, focusing on the 5x5 program, the Texas Method, and the Juggernaut Method. We discuss the pros and cons of each methodology, and explain how you can modify each system to fit your goals. Strength training programs are the backbone of many performance related training regimens, though they are often misunderstood and incorrectly implemented. Tune in to make sure you’re dialed in on your strength training regimen!!!
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings
07:13 Personal Lifting Milestones
15:09 Understanding the 5x5 Program
22:49 Context of Strength Training
30:54 Modern Applications of 5x5 Training
38:45 Understanding the Texas Method
56:40 Understanding the Juggernaut Program
01:05:30 Final Thoughts (Making Your Own Program)

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