ABOUT THE GUEST
Ed Coan is a record-setting powerlifter widely regarded as the greatest of all time. His approach to training blends simple, progressive programming with mastery of technique on the squat, bench press, and deadlift.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How Ed structures 8–12 week training cycles for peak results without overreaching
Technique checkpoints that keep heavy squats, benches, and deadlifts safe and repeatable
How to choose foundational free weights, power racks, platforms, and calibrated plates for reliable progression
Practical tips for longevity: warm-ups, microloading, belts/collars, and managing fatigue
KEY TOPICS
Building strength with small weekly progressions, strict form, and deliberate practice
Programming the competition lifts while using assistance work for weak points
Creating a dependable training environment with quality Olympic bars, plates, and lifting platforms
QUICK ANSWERS
Q: What makes Ed Coan’s programming effective for most lifters?
A: It emphasizes steady weekly progress, controlled volume, and precise technique so you can recover, adapt, and peak on time.
Q: What core equipment should a powerlifter prioritize first?
A: A sturdy power rack, a quality 20 kg Olympic barbell, calibrated plates, secure barbell collars, and a stable lifting platform.
Q: How can experienced lifters keep setting PRs without burning out?
A: Use microloading, rotate intensities, maintain form standards, and keep assistance work targeted to your weakest links.
SHOP THE EPISODE
20 kg Olympic Weightlifting Bar (Iron Company)
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_ep146
Calibrated Powerlifting Plates (Ivanko CBPP)
https://www.ironcompany.com/ivanko-cbpp-olympic-calibrated-powerlifting-plates?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep146
Pro Series Triple Power Cage (Legend Fitness 3321)
https://www.ironcompany.com/pro-series-triple-power-cage-legend-fitness-3321?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep146
8x8 Lifting Platform (Legend Fitness)
https://www.ironcompany.com/8x8-lifting-platform-legend-fitness?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep146
Made-in-USA Leather Weightlifting Belt
https://www.ironcompany.com/made-in-usa-leather-weightlifting-belt?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep146
FULL EPISODE LIST & RESOURCES
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep146
IRON COMPANY — trusted gym equipment & flooring since 1997
Full episode list & resources:
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Cardio Equipment (treadmills, ellipticals, bikes):
https://www.ironcompany.com/cardio-equipment?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Free Weights (dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells):
https://www.ironcompany.com/free-weights?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Gym Flooring (rubber rolls, mats, tiles):
https://www.ironcompany.com/rubber-gym-flooring?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Strength Training Equipment (benches, racks, cages):
https://www.ironcompany.com/strength-training-equipment?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Government & GSA Buyers (contract & bids):
https://www.ironcompany.com/gsa-and-cmas-bid-information?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
RAW Articles & Training Guides:
https://www.ironcompany.com/articles?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
