ABOUT THIS EPISODE — A foundational conversation linking the early “roads taken” in strength sport to today’s training: how to set attempts, manage fatigue, and select equipment that supports safe, repeatable progress.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How to translate meet-handling lessons into weekly programming and attempt selection.
Where light conditioning (rowers, curved treadmills, sleds) boosts recovery without draining top-end strength.
Equipment priorities that stabilize setup, bar path, and confidence session to session.
Simple hygiene and layout habits that keep training on schedule.
KEY TOPICS
Openers, bar speed checks, and setting thirds by what the second attempt shows.
Active recovery using non-impact cardio and sled drags for circulation.
Building a dependable space: bars, plates, flooring, and clear walkways.
QUICK ANSWERS
Q: How should strength-focused athletes use cardio without hurting PRs?
A: Keep sessions brief and conversational on non-max days—row, walk, or use a curved treadmill—to improve blood flow while preserving bar speed.
Q: What’s the simplest way to pick openers?
A: Open with a load you can triple on a normal day; choose the second to confirm plan speed, then set the third by bar speed and technical quality.
Q: Where do sleds fit in a barbell program?
A: Add short push or drag intervals after main work or on light days to raise work capacity with minimal joint stress.
SHOP THE EPISODE
TrueForm Trainer Non-Motorized Curved Treadmill
https://www.ironcompany.com/trueform-trainer-non-motorized-curved-treadmill?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep65
Assault Fitness AirRower Elite — conditioning and recovery
https://www.ironcompany.com/assault-fitness-airrower-elite-rowing-machine?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep65
Xebex XT3 V2 Sled — magnetic resistance push/pull
https://www.ironcompany.com/xebex-sld-xt3v2-sled-xebex-sld-xt3v2?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep65
North American Made 1,500 lb Capacity Olympic Bar
https://www.ironcompany.com/north-american-made-1500-lb-capacity-olympic-bar?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep65
IRON COMPANY Premium Powder Coated Kettlebells
https://www.ironcompany.com/premium-powder-coated-kettlebells-iron-company-ic-ppck?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep65
FULL EPISODE LIST & RESOURCES
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep65
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
