221. Strength Coach Tony Gentilcore Answers YOUR Weightlifting Questions

Exercise Alternatives

Tony Gentilcore shares insights on alternative exercises for developing power and explosivity without relying on Olympic lifts. He emphasizes the versatility of exercises like kettlebell swings, med ball throws, and sled work, which offer a low entry level and are safe for most individuals 1. These exercises can effectively enhance hip explosion and core power, providing a wide range of options for athletes seeking to improve their explosiveness 2.

There's a lot of great options there. And I love that you mentioned sprinting because runners can certainly use running to become more explosive and more powerful.

--- Jason Fitzgerald

Tony also highlights the importance of full recovery between sets to maximize the benefits of these exercises.

   

Sprinting Power

Sprinting is another powerful tool for developing explosiveness, as discussed by Tony Gentilcore. He stresses the need for full recovery between sprints to ensure maximum benefit, suggesting that shorter distances like 10 to 30 yards are optimal for true power development 2. This approach may be unfamiliar to distance runners, who are not accustomed to such recovery times and short repetitions.

That's the key is with sprints, to me, it's all about full recovery.

--- Tony Gentilcore

Jason Fitzgerald adds that incorporating sprinting into a running program can significantly enhance speed development, provided it is done safely and with adequate rest.