A new study in the JSCR reveals that resting longer between sets appears better for strength and gaining muscle mass[1]. Resting longer between sets allows for greater intensity and more repetitions each set. This results in greater volume-load over the course of a training session (volume load = repetitions x weight, if you have my […]
Author Archive | Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS
Incorrect Terminology Running Rampant in the Jump World
This is an excerpt from a well known vertical jump internet expert. Talking about how they use the “conjugate method” of training by implementing both “explosive” and “strength” exercises in the same session. There is only one problem with this post: it’s not even close to the actual conjugate method of training. Here is a […]
Cluster Sets for Developing Power
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS Cluster sets are just a fancy word for resting between reps in a set. For example in a typical exercise you might perform 10 repetitions continuously without rest. The 10th repetition is (usually)more difficult and you may experience an exercise burn towards the end. In a cluster […]
Download your copy of the free shoulder booklet!
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS Free copy of my therapeutic and performance based shoulder booklet! Athletes Rehab Shoulder Booklet
Improve core stability, reduce injury risk, and improve performance with isometric exercise
By Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS “Proximal stability for distal mobility” is a common phrase used by athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and physical therapists. What it is referring to is the ability of the core to keep your proximal segments (trunk, hips) stabile, while allowing your extremities (arms, legs) to produce movement. “Core” […]
To maximize running speed you must train in the horizontal plane
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS When you think of exercises to increase running speed, the back/front squat, deadlift, and lunges quickly come to mind. These exercises are performed in what is called the vertical plane. Simply meaning the muscles are functioning in the same manner as they would for you to perform a vertical jump […]
Lack of external rotation appears related to shoulder injuries in professional pitchers
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS A recent study has been published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine regarding shoulder range of motion and its relationship to shoulder injuries. The study was done in professional pitchers during spring training [1]. Here is the breakdown: External rotation is the motion that allows a pitcher to take […]
Why are baseball players still swinging weighted bats in the on-deck circle?
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS Its 2015 and it is completely mind-blowing that baseball players continue to use donuts, weighted sleeves, and heavy bats in the on deck circle. Weighted bats do absolutely nothing, let me repeat that, swinging a weighted bat in the on deck circle does absolutely nothing except….make you slower and […]
Field tests that predict performance in baseball
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS You can think of field tests like the physical fitness tests you used to take in gym class (sit-ups, bar hang, the dreaded sit and reach ugh!). The difference is these tests are correlated with baseball performance variables (bat speed, throwing velocity) which makes them useful for getting baseline […]
Supplement Review: Cissus quadrangularis reduces joint pain, arthritis, and promotes weight loss
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS Cissus quadrangularis is a medicinal plant traditionally used in India to help heal bone fractures and injuries. More recently Cissus quadrangularis has been examined in the areas of weight loss, healing of fractures, and reduction in inflammatory levels. Here is a look at some of the benefits of Cissus quadrangularis. […]
Supplement Review: inorganic nitrates reduce blood pressure and increase exercise capacity
by Brett Holland, PT, DPT, CSCS If you are not aware of the amazing health benefits of nitrates, then take a minute and appreciate the recent scientific data published on inorganic nitrates. First and foremost, inorganic nitrates are more commonly known as nitric oxide boosters (NO). They are present in many different types of vegetables […]