
Advertise on podcast: Data Driven Strength Podcast
Rating
5from
This podcast has
81 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Zac Robinson and Josh PellandExplicit
No
Date created
2020/10/21
Latest episode
2026/01/28
Average duration
131 min.
Release period
39 days
Description
The perfect blend of research deep-dives and laid-back training talk.
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Podcast episodes
Check latest episodes from Data Driven Strength Podcast podcast
Are Drop Sets an Effective Training Method? [New Research] - S2E14
2026/01/28
Work with Josh, Zac, or another DDS Coach: https://datadrivenstrength.com/coaching
0:35 Introduction to the Study and Team
2:33 Conceptual Rationale for Drop Sets
6:50 Current State of the Literature
12:55 Tonal Technology and Methodology
22:21 Study Design and Participants
26:50 Traditional vs. Drop Series Protocol
34:21 Defining Practical Equivalence
37:34 Hypertrophy Results and Findings
42:14 Time Savings and Training Efficiency
1:01:45 Practical Takeaways and Applications
1:05:41 Future Research
How I Lost 30 Pounds Without Losing Muscle | S2E13
2025/12/09
Work with Josh, Zac, or another DDS Coach: https://datadrivenstrength.com/coaching
00:00 Intro Teaser: 30 lbs Down
00:31 Podcast Intro & Topic Overview
02:57 The "Week 4 Effect"
05:05 Does Expertise Hurt Your Own Progress?
06:35 The Value of "Walking the Walk"
10:52 PART I: THE CONTEXT (From PL to Hypertrophy)
18:40 Why Josh Hired a Coach (Steve Hall)
21:30 The Stats: From 230lbs to 199lbs
22:30 PART II: TRAINING ARCHITECTURE
25:00 Strength Retention & Leverage Changes
29:27 Volume Talk: 6-12 Sets Per Week?
32:08 Rest Periods & Super-setting
34:36 Rituals & Meal Timing Structure
37:50 Decision Fatigue & Accountability
43:00 Work-Life Boundaries for Better Sessions
46:45 Nutrition Strategy Overview
46:52 PART III: NUTRITION STRATEGY
51:40 Implementing Refeeds & Diet Breaks
54:45 Dining Out Hacks: ChatGPT & Sharing
59:34 The Ninja Creami Recipe
01:04:15 "Eating Like an Adult" (Rebuilding Habits)
01:07:50 Mindset: Subjective Experience & Momentum
01:07:57 PART IV: KEY TAKEAWAYS & MINDSET
01:15:30 Protecting Your Training Priority
A New Philosophy for Training Data | S2E12
2025/11/05
Work with a DDS coach: https://datadrivenstrength.com/coaching/
0:02:14 - Zac’s Work on Individual Response Variation (and his conclusion)
0:08:35 - Key takeaway: programming around constraints, not different principles
0:15:18 - New podcast approach: Building on their own work (Research & Coaching)
0:19:03 - Experience vs weak Scientific Evidence
0:29:17 - Coaching Systems Review: The 5 Core Values in the training process
0:37:48 - The value of Training Skill for long-term success
0:44:36 - Listener Question: How to interpret years of Training Data
0:52:43 - Coaching as the Application of Principles within the athlete’s Constraints
0:59:11 - Key Inputs and Outputs to evaluate Strength & Hypertrophy programming
1:17:50 - The 3 Big Unanswered Questions in Training Science (Fatigue, Creatine, Growth Limit)
Structure vs. Flexibility, Bodybuilding vs. Powerlifting, and a Huge Announcement | S2E11
2025/07/31
Sign up for a 14-day free trial for the Evolve Training App: https://www.evolvetrainingapp.com
Work with Josh or Zac: https://datadrivenstrength.com/coaching
Free newsletter with exclusive content: https://datadrivenstrength.com
00:00 - Introduction & Rocking Chair Discussion
09:30 — Coaching Anecdotes
14:10 — Structure vs. Flexibility in Training
44:59 — What Bodybuilders Can Learn From Powerlifters (& Vice Versa)
1:00:35 — Announcement: Evolve Training App
New approach to RIR, Advanced Training Methods, Research Interpretation Errors, and More | S2E9
2025/07/07
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
More from DDS: https://data-drivenstrength.kit.com/profile
00:00 - Introduction
00:05:17 - Training Flexibility vs. Rigidity
00:25:45 - New Rest-Pause Study
00:43:55 - Recommendations: Rest-Pause & Drop Sets
00:55:49 - How to Individualize Training
01:27:32 - An Improved Approach to RIR
01:40:34 - A Guide to Interpreting Research (Common Fallacies)
Volume and Strength: New Science Explained | S2E10
2025/06/30
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
More from DDS: https://data-drivenstrength.kit.com/profile
00:00- Podcast Introduction & Episode Focus
06:05 - The Deceiving Nature of Scientific Data
10:10 - Episode Outline and Goals
16:15 - Acknowledging the Research Team
18:20 - Historical Periodization Narratives
24:25 - Contrasting Strength Training Approaches
32:30 - Evolving Views on Training Volume
38:35 - Prior Meta-Analyses on Volume and Strength
54:50 - Limitations of Past Research
01:03:00 - Novel Volume Quantification Methods
01:13:10 - Examples of Indirect Exercises
01:17:15 - Meta-Analysis Inclusion Criteria
01:19:15 - Smallest Detectable Effect Size
01:23:20 - Model Adjustments for Precision
01:29:25 - Optimal Volume Approach & Total Studies
01:33:30 - Understanding Within-Study Slopes & Shrinkage
01:45:40 - Plateau & Precision of Estimates
01:51:45 - Common Rep Ranges & Rest Periods
01:55:50 - Specificity in Strength Assessments
02:01:55 - Training Specificity and Volume
02:08:00 - Volume Impact on Short-Term Strength Gains
02:12:05 - Hypertrophy vs. Strength: Causal Questions
02:22:15 - Qualitative Data Agreement
02:30:25 - Analyzing Paired Matched Effects
02:38:30 - Reliability vs. Agreement Plot Analysis
02:44:35 - Muscle Size and Strength Compatibility
Hypertrophy Tier List, Periodization for Hypertrophy, and More | S2E7
2025/06/02
More from DDS: https://data-drivenstrength.kit.com/profile
00:00 Intro
00:23 Introduction
09:34 Hypertrophy variables tier list
13:15 Detailing the tier list structure and criteria
18:44 Tier list discussion begins: Rep Tempo (C-Tier) and Intensity Techniques (initially C, moved to B-Tier)
31:08 Continuing tier list: Range of Motion (A-Tier) and Rest Periods (A-Tier)
41:40 Further tier list variables: Sessions Per Week (C-Tier), Load/Rep Range (B-Tier), Exercise Order (B-Tier), and Splits (C-Tier)
54:04 In-depth discussion and ranking of Volume (B-Tier, considered for A-Tier) and Deloads (B-Tier)
1:09:18 Tier list continued: Logbooking (initially S-Tier, moved to A-Tier) and Exercise Selection & Execution (S-Tier)
1:24:41 Discussing Muscle Specificity (B-Tier), Frequency (B-Tier), and Proximity to Failure (S-Tier)
1:35:12 Ranking Novelty (C-Tier), then grouping Resensitization (C-Tier) and an extensive discussion on Periodization (B-Tier).
2:03:26 Honorable mentions for the tier list: Cardio (considered B-Tier), Gym Kit (considered C-Tier), and Time-Saving Strategies like paired sets (considered A-Tier).
2:11:51 Deep dive into periodization for hypertrophy
2:42:10 Final tier list synopsis (relative importance of lifestyle, stimulus quality, dosage, and details)
Beginner vs Advanced Training, Powerlifting Mistakes, and More (10k subscribers Q&A) | S2E8
2025/05/27
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
More from Data Driven Strength:
https://data-drivenstrength.kit.com/profile
00:00 Intro
07:13 Q&A Start: Sets to Failure vs. Reps in Reserve (Hypertrophy)
14:01 Sets to Failure vs. Reps in Reserve (Strength)
19:07 The "Fatigue Boogeyman" in Hypertrophy Training
24:51 Fatigue Management in Strength Training
31:23 Autoregulation in Training
36:27 Hypertrophy for Lifters with 10+ Years of Experience
53:11 Specificity of Hypertrophy Work for Powerlifting
1:06:40 Fringe Extrapolations in Evidence-Based Fitness
1:26:13 Using Velocity to Avoid Overshooting
1:30:59 Concentric vs. Eccentric for Hypertrophy
1:37:40 Improving Grip Strength for Deadlifts
Strength and Hypertrophy Lessons from 2024 (Q&A) | S2E6
2025/02/06
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
More from Data Driven Strength:
https://data-drivenstrength.kit.com/profile
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
04:04 Exploring AI in Strength Training
28:04 Personal Learnings and PhD Insights
31:18 Understanding Training Protocols and Individual Responses
37:24 The Role of Environmental Factors in Training Outcomes
43:31 Individualization in Training: Beyond the Basics
52:56 Reflections on Exercise Selection and Range of Motion
01:02:51 Training on Vacation: Balancing Consistency and Enjoyment
01:17:15 Proportion of Hypertrophy vs. Strength Blocks
01:24:43 Periodization and Individualization in Training
Music by Artlist - https://artlist.io
Frequency and Strength: New Science Explained | S2E5
2025/01/08
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
https://sportrxiv.org/index.php/server/preprint/view/460
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
02:51 The Mystery of the Norwegian Frequency Project
09:14 Understanding Between-Study Variability in Research
11:49 The Impact of New Research on Training Practices
18:03 The Role of Social Media in Science Communication
20:54 Reflections on Research Interpretation and Community Response
46:43 The Shift in Frequency Training Perspectives
52:44 Coaching Insights on Frequency and Strength
58:25 Defining Frequency
01:04:07 Methodology of the Meta-Analysis
01:12:30 Understanding the Data: Strength Training Variables
01:27:06 Analyzing Dose-Response Relationships
01:31:07 Exploring Secondary Analyses and Their Implications
01:39:15 Training Status
01:46:31 Upper vs Lower Body
01:51:39 Repetition Range
01:56:06 Concluding Thoughts on Frequency and Volume in Strength Training
02:04:03 Strength Development and Long-Term Training Strategies
02:09:45 Key Training Variables and Their Impact
02:19:12 Load vs. Frequency: Finding the Balance
02:24:45 Maximal Performance and Training Frequency
02:31:01 Long-Term Development vs. Short-Term Strength Goals
All our stuff - https://data-drivenstrength.ck.page/profile
Links:
More detailed discussion of the methods from the previous episode - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKRAVrf-798&t=4380s
Music by Artlist - https://artlist.io
Volume and Muscle Growth, Are There Really Doubts? Ft. Dr. Sam Buckner | S2E4
2024/12/20
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
Follow Sam:
https://www.instagram.com/samuelbuckner?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
03:10 Sam's Background and Research Focus
06:06 Understanding Muscle Growth and Measurement Techniques
12:04 The Complexity of Hypertrophy Research
19:05 High Volume Training and Its Implications
22:02 Long-Term Muscle Growth Trends
30:16 Optimistic Perspectives on Training Outcomes
35:26 Exploring Better Training Protocols
41:10 Understanding the Chill Point in Training
47:35 The Role of Volume and Exercise Variety
53:27 Navigating Research Limitations
01:01:56 The Limitations of Measuring Hypertrophy
01:10:30 Diving Deep into Data Interpretation
01:12:24 Understanding Volume and Its Implications
01:15:44 The Role of Meta-Analysis in Research
01:18:35 Exploring Training Volumes and Their Effects
01:21:27 Swelling in Strength Training
01:25:20 Navigating the Science Communication
01:29:43 The Relationship Between Hypertrophy and Strength
01:35:00 Challenging Conventional Wisdom on Muscle Growth
01:41:56 Wrap Up
All our stuff - https://data-drivenstrength.ck.page/profile
Music by Artlist - https://artlist.io
Can The Volume Research Be Trusted: Ft. Dr. Eric Helms | S2E3
2024/11/15
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
04:02 Evolution of Research in Strength Training
12:08 Critical Analysis of Volume Research
20:12 Understanding Limitations in Training Studies
30:02 Real-World Implications
42:32 Balancing Science Communication and Practical Utility
44:55 Shifting Perspectives on Training Volume
47:21 Long-Term Training Perspectives and Individual Differences
50:48 The Role of Environmental Constraints in Training
52:44 Assessing The Hypertrophy and Strength Relationship
55:32 The Complexities of Strength and Hypertrophy Measurement
01:01:13 Practical Applications of Volume Load Progression
01:07:30 Navigating Performance Variability
01:17:46 Wrap up
All our stuff - https://data-drivenstrength.ck.page/profile
Music by Artlist - https://artlist.io
Frequency and Hypertrophy: New Science Explained | S2E2
2024/10/16
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
https://sportrxiv.org/index.php/server/preprint/view/460
Timestamps:
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
16:40 Background
29:16 Historical Perspectives on Training Frequency
50:28 What We Did (Methodology)
01:00:57 Findings on Frequency Quantification
01:10:43 Primary Meta-Regression Results
01:35:58 Comparing The Results Frequency Quantification Methods
01:42:28 Secondary Analyses and Their Implications
02:00:00 Spitballing Different Angles of Interpretation
02:15:29 Practical Applications and Recommendations
02:45:08 Conclusions on Frequency and Hypertrophy
All our stuff - https://data-drivenstrength.ck.page/profile
Links:
- More detailed discussion of the methods from the previous episode https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKRAVrf-798&t=4380s
Music by Artlist - https://artlist.io
Volume and Hypertrophy: New Science Explained | S2E1
2024/10/04
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
https://sportrxiv.org/index.php/server/preprint/view/460
Timestamps:
0:00:00 Introduction
0:04:41 The Story Behind This Project
0:10:00 The Goal of This Podcast
0:24:03 Background Research / Rationale
0:44:30 Method of Set Quantification
0:51:20 Search and Inclusion Criteria
0:55:45 Why Include Non-training Control Groups
1:01:20 Smallest Detectable Effect Size
1:13:00 How Does Multilevel Meta-Regression Work
1:36:50 Comparing Different Functional Forms
1:52:45 Other Supplementary Meta-Analyses
2:01:00 Characteristics of the Included Studies
2:08:42 Method of Set Quantification Comparison
2:20:00 Primary Model Results
2:40:00 Efficiency Tiers
2:52:00 Secondary Analyses
3:03:00 Moderator Analyses
3:17:00 Strengths and Limitations of the Project
3:26:00 Measurement Timelines and Considerations
3:38:45 The Influence of Muscle Swelling
4:05:00 The Influence of Non-training Control Data
4:23:00 Our Practical Interpretations
4:50:00 What Should Be the New Volume Recommendations?
All our stuff - https://data-drivenstrength.ck.page/profile
Links:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27433992/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35291645/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38037792/
- https://m-clark.github.io/posts/2019-05-14-shrinkage-in-mixed-models/
- https://matthewbjane.github.io
Music by Artlist - https://artlist.io
Managing the Costs of Training to Failure | Ep. 66
2024/08/14
Thanks for tuning in to the Data Driven Strength Podcast!
00:00 Introduction
01:30 Controlling Proximity to Failure and Downstream Effects
03:39 Theoretical Considerations and Adjusting Load Set-to-Set
11:50 Practical Recommendations for Training to Failure
19:35 Exercise Order and Perception of Effort
35:08 Maximizing the Stimulus Under the Curve
All our stuff - https://data-drivenstrength.ck.page/p...
Music by Joystock - https://www.joystock.com
Podcast reviews
Read Data Driven Strength Podcast podcast reviews
Holy_Z 2024/10/18
Great but audio low
Voice audio is very very low especially for Zack can barely even hear him on full volume. Same for the youtube version, at least this episode and last...
JacobyDiles 2024/11/10
Can’t hear you
Would love to listen to these episodes have been looking forward for this study to come out but I can’t hear what you guys are saying at all, too quit...
SlimeLove456 2022/08/05
Great slimes
In all seriousness, genuinely enjoy listening to you all. Specifically, I appreciate you all helping me expand my understanding of all-things resistan...
aero109 2024/10/06
Who is this even for?
Very technical and way over my head. Not sure who the target audience is? Guys are personable enough and production quality is good. Some episodes are...
lastgoodcaesar 2020/12/29
Thanks for doing you
Your content has been inspiring me to think about my training from new perspectives that are currently going hand in hand with seemingly positive outc...
kidney_doc_lifts 2020/12/11
Great show
Glad you guys decided to make a podcast. Really informative stuff and understand the evidence based behind them. Perfect length of about 40-45 min too...
Eleiko69 2020/12/03
Love the podcast!
Interesting and informative! Hope to see more episodes.
tcmathis 2020/11/23
Great work!
Enjoying the podcast, keep it up guys!
jack8787jack 2020/11/21
Good stuff!
Came across you guys through Barbell Medicine and love it!
hryhhjjj 2020/11/21
Top Tier Podcast!
Very easy to listen to especially for the quality of content
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