In this RAW episode, Marty Gallagher, J.P. Brice, and Jim Steel explain the “soft skills” that drive hard results in the weight room. We define assessments that matter, how to translate them into individualized prescriptions, and when to use linear, undulating, or block periodization. The team covers readiness, auto‑regulation, and communication—how coaches cue movement, select assistance work, and set expectations—plus practical tools for tracking work without over‑complicating the session. We also discuss equipment standards that make coaching easier and safer in home gyms and commercial facilities: stable racks, dependable Olympic barbells and plates, adjustable benches, and rubber gym flooring for noise and impact control. Full episode list and resources: https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
ABOUT THIS EPISODE: Marty Gallagher, J.P. Brice, and Jim Steel discuss how experienced coaches convert evaluation into programming. Start with what’s observable—bar speed, posture, depth, control—and pick the smallest number of lifts that cover the big patterns (squat/hinge, press, pull, carry). Choose a periodization style that fits the lifter’s training age and calendar, then let performance guide micro‑adjustments: small load jumps, back‑off sets when bar speed dips, and deloads based on trend, not mood. We outline how to design assistance work with intent (one purpose per slot), when to switch variations, and how to use simple logs to keep athletes honest. Communication matters as much as sets and reps—short cues, clear standards, and consistent setups. Finally, we note facility considerations that support coaching at scale: racks with safeties, durable benches, consistent Olympic barbells and plates, and rubber gym flooring to protect the subfloor and reduce vibration.
Related training guides:
https://www.ironcompany.com/blog/three-modes-muscular-strength?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
https://www.ironcompany.com/blog/deciphering-resistance-training-routines?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
https://www.ironcompany.com/blog/the-rested-strength-effort?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
https://www.ironcompany.com/blog/training-partners?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How to assess movement and translate findings into individualized training prescriptions.
When to use linear, undulating, or block periodization—and how to auto‑regulate within each.
Simple tracking that keeps focus on quality reps, not data overload.
Facility and equipment standards that make coaching safer and more consistent.
KEY TOPICS
Assessment → exercise selection → progression
Periodization choices and deload strategy
Communication, cueing, and environment design for productive sessions
QUICK ANSWERS
Q: What’s the quickest way to individualize a program?
A: Start with a few reliable pattern tests, select one main lift per pattern, and progress with small load jumps while adjusting volume to bar speed and technique.
Q: How often should programs change?
A: Keep the main lifts stable for a training block (4–8 weeks) while rotating assistance work as needed; change for a clear reason, not novelty.
Q: Do I need complex tech to coach well?
A: No. A consistent setup, short cues, a training log, and occasional video review cover most needs; add tools only if they improve decisions.
SHOP THE EPISODE
Body‑Solid Commercial Power Rack (GPR400) — stable rack with safeties
https://www.ironcompany.com/body-solid-commercial-power-rack-gpr400?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
IRON COMPANY 20 kg 195K Olympic Barbell
https://www.ironcompany.com/olympic-weightlifting-bar-20kg-195-000-psi-iron-company-ic-ob-5150?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
IRON COMPANY Urethane Hex Dumbbells — durable, easy to handle
https://www.ironcompany.com/urethane-hex-dumbbells-iron-company-ic-u-hex?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
Body‑Solid GFT100 Dual Stack Functional Trainer — versatile cable work
https://www.ironcompany.com/dual-stack-functional-trainer-body-solid-gft100?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
Black Rubber Roll Flooring — light commercial, noise and impact control
https://www.ironcompany.com/black-rubber-roll-flooring-light-commercial?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102
FULL EPISODE LIST & RESOURCES
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep102