The Modern Athlete Podcast

Most athletes either train strength, conditioning, or power. Tactical professionals need all three. In this episode, we explain how we use conjugate style training inside a concurrent training model to develop complete athletes. From dynamic effort work to exercise rotation and recovery management, we cover how to make the system actually work for real-world performance.Not on Warfighter?  Join the team here.

Building a home gym doesn’t need to be complicated. In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Howell to break down how to prioritize equipment, maximize space, and build a gym that actually delivers results.Not on Warfighter?  Join the team here.

If you’re rolling multiple times per week but not adjusting your training, you’re setting yourself up to feel run down. In this episode, we cover how to structure strength and conditioning for Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on building your gas tank, improving strength and power, and managing overall workload so you can train consistently without breaking downNot on Warfighter?  Join the team here.

If your training isn’t working, it’s not random, you’re missing something. In this episode, we walk through common athlete problems and exactly how to fix them, from poor conditioning to lack of structure and program hopping. The goal is simple: identify your weak link, attack it, and build a more complete, job-ready athlete. Not on Warfighter?  Join the team here.

If you’re not assessing, you’re guessing. We introduce the Readiness Standard, a five-event test designed for tactical athletes to evaluate total fitness across multiple domains. This episode breaks down each event and shows how to use your results to drive smarter training. Find your weak points and start training what actually matters.Not on Warfighter?  Join the team here.

Stop overthinking substitutions. This episode explains how to train within total body, lower body, and upper body categories so you can adjust on the fly without losing effectiveness. Understand the system, match the intent, and keep moving forward.Not on Warfighter?  Join the team here.

On this episode of the Modern Athlete Podcast, we break down how to run effective group PT sessions by focusing on what actually matters: group size, time, space, and equipment. When sessions are organized, consistent, and intentional, you get better outcomes and better buy-in across the board.Start Training on Warfighter Here

We've seen thousands of athletes train.   We also see the same mistake happen over and over again.  Here are the top ones.  And here's how to correct them.Not on Warfighter?  Join the team here.

The Build, Output, Armor (BOA) System is how we maximize training gains, provide a scalable solution for people who have 3, 4, 5, or 6 days a week to train, and manage weekly recovery.In this episode we are diving into what BOA is and answering frequently asked questions from the Warfighter training team.Read the Full BOA Article HereStart Training on Warfighter Here

In this episode of the Modern Athlete Podcast, Coach Jimmy sits down with Harry Walker, founder of Warhorse Athletics, Marine Corps Infantry veteran, wildland firefighter, and elite Strongman competitor.Harry breaks down how Strongman training carries over to tactical performance, why sandbags, carries, neck training, grip strength, and sprint work matter for military, law enforcement, firefighters, and other tactical athletes, and how he balances high-level competition with physically demanding real-world jobs.They also dive into the difference between training for Strongman competition and using Strongman methods for tactical strength and conditioning, why rounded-back lifting is often misunderstood, how to build real-world durability, and why speed, explosiveness, and movement quality are critical for operational performance.If you're a tactical athlete, strength coach, firefighter, military professional, or someone who wants to build real-world strength that actually transfers outside the gym, this episode is packed with practical insight.Start Training FREE

Brian and Jimmy go in depth about what to expect on the new cycle, how to build to a one rep max, and our framework for managing weekly training fatigue, the BOA System.If you're not training with us and want to hop on the next cycle...Try a free week of Warfighter

In this episode, Coach Jimmy and dietitian Erik Grohmann discuss the Warfighter annual training plan for athletes, focusing on the integration of nutrition and training. They explore the importance of injury recovery, body composition goals, nutrient distribution, caloric intake, and the significance of consistency in nutrition. The conversation also delves into energy systems, carbohydrate timing, and recovery strategies, emphasizing the need for a solid nutritional foundation to optimize performance.Start Training Here

Coach Jimmy interviews Derek Poundstone, a former World's Strongest Man competitor, 3x America's Strongest Man, 2x Arnold Classic strongman winner, and law enforcement officer. They discuss Derek's journey into strongman competitions, the balance between his athletic career and law enforcement, and the mental resilience required to succeed in both fields. Derek shares insights on training philosophy, the importance of time management, and the role of deadlifts in strength training. He emphasizes the need to push through negative internal dialogues and the evolution of training as one ages. The conversation concludes with reflections on finding purpose through strength and the lessons learned from his experiences.Follow Derek on InstagramStart Training with Modern Athlete

Dr. Seth Haselhuhn breaks down why mental performance for tactical professionals isn't the same as sport psychology—and why "tactical athlete" is a misleading term.Seth is a mental performance coach working with special operations and tactical professionals. In this conversation, we cover:• Why there are no metrics for combat (and what that means for training)• The difference between sport IQ and tactical IQ• What actually happens after the gunfight—the conversations most people don't have• How to carry weight you can't put down• Why clear goals + feedback beats motivation every time• Domain-specific mental skills vs generic mental toughnessSeth's been working with the SOF community for over 10 years. He's a PhD in sport pedagogy with a background that spans strength & conditioning, college baseball coaching, and tactical psychology.Key quote: "Guys in special operations have already demonstrated better mental toughness than most people. They don't need rah-rah motivation—they need specific skills for specific problems."CONNECT WITH SETH:Instagram: @caliber_development_groupWARFIGHTER PROGRAM:Join 700+ tactical professionals training smart: https://marketplace.trainheroic.com/workout-plan/team/modern-athlete-strength-solutions?attrib=260991-pod

In this episode of the Modern Athlete Podcast, Coach Jimmy sits down with Justin Bentivegna, a longtime friend, training partner, and fellow strength coach, to unpack what effective training really looks like for tactical professionals and athletes across different stages of life.The conversation centers on the idea that training principles should stay constant, but methods must adapt to the individual. Justin emphasizes that whether you’re coaching college athletes or seasoned tactical operators, you’re always training humans first. The art of coaching lies in meeting people where they are—physically, psychologically, and professionally—rather than forcing rigid systems onto them.Key themes include:Principles over philosophy: Core training principles remain stable, but exercise selection, communication style, and programming must evolve based on the athlete’s age, experience, and job demands.Ground-based, compound movements as the foundation of performance, with an emphasis on front squats, pull-ups, overhead pressing, and total-body strength.Relative strength, power, speed, and force absorption as major gaps in tactical training—often overlooked in favor of only max strength or endurance.High–low programming models to manage CNS fatigue while balancing lifting, sprinting, intervals, and long-duration conditioning.Conditioning beyond mileage, blending short, intense interval work with aerobic base development.Swimming as a technical skill, where improved general fitness often carries over without excessive pool volume for non-swimmers.Fatherhood and longevity in training, with Justin framing fitness as stewardship, protection, leadership by example, and “training your replacement.”Culture as people and leadership, with elite cultures built through consistent values, integrity, and shared standards—not slogans.The episode closes with Justin discussing his current training focus for a HYROX competition, using classic accumulation → intensification → realization → peaking phases, and reinforcing that smart, adaptable programming applies whether you’re training for competition, duty, or life.Follow on IGTrain Here

In this episode, Coach Jimmy and Chris Conroy discuss the importance of maintaining health and fitness as a father. They explore Chris's journey with the '100 Days of Healthy' challenge, his upcoming Ironman training, and the balance between family life and personal fitness goals. The conversation emphasizes the need for adaptability in training, the significance of leading by example, and the mental health benefits of staying active. Chris shares personal anecdotes and insights on how to prioritize health while managing the responsibilities of fatherhood. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of planning and consistency in training, the challenges of waking up early, and the balance between training and life responsibilities. They emphasize the need for motivation and the significance of finding a routine that works for each individual. The discussion also touches on the enjoyment of training and the importance of discipline in achieving fitness goals while maintaining a fulfilling life.Follow Chris here:  Instagram

The Annual Plan is how you build ALL physical qualities over the course of a year.  When you build everything at once, nothing ever becomes the priority.  This is how we build elite strength and conditioning while keeping athletes healthy over the course of year.Start training here:  https://marketplace.trainheroic.com/workout-plan/team/modern-athlete-strength-solutions?attrib=260991-pod

Listener Q&A episode where we will discuss how to set goals, staying consistent on your training, rep ranges for specific results, and more!

Being able to properly brace your body and create as stable of a platform as possible is necessary to lift heavier loads - and to stay safe while doing so.  In this episode, our coaching staff dives into the exact methods you can use to lift heavier weight more safely and efficiently.

We're looking back on what we've done in 2026 and talking plans for what the next year holds.  In this episode Jimmy and Brian also discuss how their views of coaching may have changed and how that influences the next chapter of Modern Athlete.Sign up for Warfighter by January 4th, select the annual plan, and save over 50% on training:  Sign Up Here

Alexz Jones is a Green Beret and USPSA Grandmaster - the highest possible classification within the sport.This episode delves into the world of tactical training, focusing on the integration of athleticism and performance on demand.The conversation highlights how traditional athletic training methods can be adapted for tactical athletes, emphasizing injury prevention and cognitive performance. Key insights include the role of speed and agility in tactical scenarios, the significance of training versatility, and the impact of social media on training perceptions.Ready to train?  Get started here.

In this episode of the Modern Athlete Podcast, we interview Jon Heck, a former NFL strength and conditioning coach and competitive athlete. Jon shares his journey from a football background to becoming a strength and nutrition coach, emphasizing the important role nutrition plays in maximizing the results of training.Follow Jon on Instagram: @what_the_heck71Follow Jon on YouTube: Hammer and Chisel PerformanceStart Training with Modern Athlete:  Warfighter Training Team

Strength, Hypertrophy, Conditioning - all wrapped up inside our newest cycle on Warfighter.Start Here:  Warfighter

We've worked with thousands of athletes at Modern Athlete, and we've narrowed down what we believe to be the top 5 things generally missing from programs these days.  If your goal is peak performance - make sure you are addressing these!Start Training Today:  Warfighter

How do you get the most out of athletes?  George Greene has seen it all from working with athletes on the collegiate level to tactical professionals in Special Operations.  Proud to bring our friend, George Greene, onto the podcast.

Coach Jimmy and Andy discuss their latest prep for a powerlifting meet in which Jimmy took first place and set a new state record in the deadlift.  These two experienced competitors talk about how they structured their training to prepare and how they peaked on meet day.Start Training Here:  Join Warfighter Free

You guys know how much we love the Tier System for tactical athletes.  Today's episode is special - we have the creator of the Tier System, Coach Joe Kenn (aka Big House) to talk about getting strong, well-conditioned, and performing at the top of your game.  This is a must listen for anyone who needs to perform at elite levels.You can follow Coach Kenn on Instagram here:  @bighousepowerStart training FREE on Warfighter:  Start Here

Many of our athletes train out of their home gym or have aspirations to build a kick ass home gym.  Prioritizing how you want to set it up to get the most bang for your buck can be tough.  This episode we break down exactly what you need to get started.Start training here:  Warfighter Free Week

Stew Smith is one of the originals in tactical strength and conditioning - developing programs for aspiring Special Operations candidates and many more before tactical strength and conditioning was even a thing.  Listen to Stew and Jimmy talk about his time in BUD/S and how he trains aspiring candidates today.Start Training Here:  Warfighter

Tactical athletes will never have perfect conditions at all times.  Sometimes you find yourself away from your standard gym equipment and must amend training to what you have on hand.  That's expected and we must find better way to stay consistent on our programming.  In this episode we discuss how you can amend your regular training to limited equipment variations and still achieve the training intent.Start Training Free:  Warfighter

Professional lacrosse athlete and Nike sponsored athlete, Max Adler, joins us on the podcast.  Max has had a beast of a lacrosse career but continues to find way to train hard and keep purpose in his training since hanging the cleats up.  Whether you're a sports athlete or tactical athlete, we all need to find ways to keep "the why" in our training.  Here's what Max has to say about that.Ready to train?  Join Warfighter Free

How important is training?  That depends...What happens if you fail?  In this episode we are discussing finding greater purpose behind your training.  How high should our standard be?  And how do we stay committed?Start Training FREE on Warfighter:  Join Warfighter

Elite performers adopt systems...they don't hop from program to program with no logical order.  People who are serious about building strength, power, and endurance concurrently don't just need another program, they need a system that evolves as they become more advanced in their training.  In this episode we'll jump into the difference between programs and systems and how you can apply systems in your life.Train on Warfighter:  Join HereWarfighter: Foundations (Novice Program): Download Warfighter: FoundationsWant to Work with Us 1:1? Apply for 1:1 CoachingJoin Our Free Community on Skool: Click Here

Want to add running to your program without burning out?  Tune in to this episode and we use Warfighter as an example of exactly how to do this.Join Warfighter:  Warfighter Free TrialApply for 1:1 Training:  Apply Here

We break down the day to day training on the newest cycle of Warfighter, Ironclad.Don't forget to use code IRONCLAD to grab 50% off Warfighter.Join Warfighter Here:  Start My Free TrialWarfighter + Mobility Bundle:  Join HereWant to Work 1:1 With Us?  Apply Here

Jimmy and I jump into the methods of how our athletes are hitting new PRs but at their leanest and lighted body composition.Want to work 1:1 with Jimmy?  Apply HereJoin Warfighter: Start My Free TrialWarfighter + Mobility Bundle:  Start My Free Trial

In this episode, I reflect on their past training experiences and share valuable insights on strength and conditioning. I emphasize the importance of focusing on fundamental movements, maintaining consistency over intensity, and understanding nutrition's role in performance. I also highlight the significance of tracking progress and the benefits of coaching to maximize training potential.Apply for 1:1 Coaching:  365 Forged - Modern Athlete Strength SystemsStart Training on Warfighter:  Warfighter Free Trial

Brand new 12 week cycle is coming up on Warfighter and here's what you can expect to see.Join Warfighter FREE:  Join HereNovice Lifter?:  Join Warfighter FoundationsWarfighter + Nutrition Support:  Warfighter EliteGet the Warfighter Bundle:  Join Here

We break down a research article detailing the effects of concurrent resistance and aerobic training on ruck performance and body composition.  We match the research with what we've seen in 20+ years of working with athletes to help you find the best training methods to reach your goals.Read the original article here:  (PDF) Effects of Concurrent Resistance and Aerobic Training on Load-Bearing Performance and the Army Physical Fitness TestReady to Train?:  Join Warfighter FreeWant to work with us 1:1?  Apply for Coaching

Physical Readiness is what we do.  It's the purpose of Modern Athlete to help athletes be able to answer the call anytime, anywhere, 365 days out of the year.  Here's how we think about training and readiness cycles.Join Warfighter for free here:  https://marketplace.trainheroic.com/workout-plan/team/modern-athlete-strength-solutions?attrib=260991-podApply for 1:1 Coaching:  1:1 Coaching - Modern Athlete Strength Systems

Jimmy and I catch up on training, going into detail about both of our current training goals and how we are developing our program to accomplish them.Want Jimmy to coach you 1:1?  Apply for coaching here.Join Warfighter for a Week Free:  WarfighterWarfighter + Mobility + Yoke Bundle: Access HereWarfighter: Mobility: Join the new mobility team

Raise the floor means raising the baseline of performance.  This is the performance that you can access on-demand...anytime, anywhere.Join Warfighter Here >> Warfighter

Sometimes it seems like injury is almost synonymous with working a job in a tactical field.  While it may not be possible to totally prevent injury, we can certainly do things to mitigate it.Check out this episode with Dr. Jamie Mraz to learn how.Grab a FREE Week on Warfighter Here:  Warfighter Training TeamTake You Athlete Assessment Here:  MASS Athlete Assessment

Warfighter is built for a specific type of individual.  Is it you?Jump into this episode and find out exactly who we built Warfighter for.And when you're ready...Grab a FREE week on Warfighter here:  Warfighter Free Week

Getting lean while still fueling for performance.  Don't miss our take on strategies you can start implementing today.Use the TDEE Calculator:  tdeecalculator.netJoin the Warfighter Training Team:  Warfighter Free WeekApply for 1:1 Training and/or Nutrition:  Apply for 1:1 HereNeed Help Dialing Into the Right Program:  Take the Athlete Assessment

It's no doubt that strength is a key component in physical readiness.In this episode we examine the importance of both absolute and relative strength in tactical performance.Join the Warfighter Training Team:  Warfighter Free WeekVisit Our Website:  Modern Athlete SiteGet dialed into the right program for you:  Take the Athlete Assessment

We are diving deep into our newest cycle on Warfighter and giving you the exact template we use to build elite strength and endurance.Start your FREE Week on Warfighter:  Join WarfighterDownload the TRPA on Skool:  Request Skool Access

Tactical athletes don't have the benefit of knowing the time and place they need to peak.  Instead, they have to achieve the highest level of sustainable readiness year round.  They must be prepared, so that on their worst day, when sh*t really hits the fan, they have the baseline capabilities to exceed what is required to fight, win, and survive.Start your FREE trial on Warfighter:  Join Warfighter HereVisit our Site:  MASS WebsiteGet dialed into the right program for you:  Take Your Athlete Assessment

MASS Dietitian Erik Grohmann deep dives his nutrition preparation for extended duration endurance events.  If you're a marathon, ultra runner, iron man, or anybody preparing for long duration endurance, listen up...this is how you fuel.Work 1:1 with Erik:  1:1 Coaching - Modern Athlete Strength SystemsGet a FREE Week Trial on Warfighter:  Warfighter Free TrialGet Dialed into the Right Program for You:  Take the Athlete AssessmentWatch on YouTube:  Carbs, Caffeine, and Chaos

Ready to ruck further and faster?  We'll dive in today and talk about how you can start packing on more weight and increasing distance.  Whether you're a military athlete or just wanting to increase your rucking performance, you'll find this podcast valuable.If you enjoyed this podcast, please do us a favor and share this with somebody and rate it 5 stars.Start your FREE trial on Warfighter:  Join WarfighterVisit the site: Modern Athlete WebsiteFind Out Which Program is the Best Fit for You: Take the Athlete Assessment