Seated Weighted Vertical Jump

The seated weighted vertical jump is a concentric-only power exercise that develops explosive starting strength and rate of force development by eliminating the stretch-shortening cycle. In this guide, strength coach Brandon Smitley of THIRST Gym breaks down proper setup, load selection, programming, and sport-specific applications for wrestlers, powerlifters, and team-sport athletes. Learn who should use this advanced jump variation and how to program it for a more explosive first step.

Single Leg Lateral Box Jump To Bilateral Landing

The single-leg lateral box jump to bilateral landing is an advanced plyometric that builds single-leg power, lateral change-of-direction ability, and hip stability in one efficient drill. Learn how to set it up, train both the lateral and medial variations, and program it correctly to expose and correct left-to-right asymmetries. Brandon Smitley of THIRST Gym in Terre Haute, Indiana breaks down the biomechanics, coaching cues, and sets-and-reps for this frontal-plane power exercise.

Band Resisted Split Stance Vertical Jump

The band resisted split stance vertical jump is an advanced plyometric exercise that develops explosive single-leg power and reactive strength through accommodating resistance and overspeed eccentric loading. This unilateral jumping variation enhances the stretch-shortening cycle, builds tendon elasticity, and directly improves athletic performance in sprinting, jumping, and change-of-direction movements. Learn proper setup, execution techniques, programming recommendations, and the science behind why resistance band plyometrics create superior power development for athletes.

Bent Over Rotational Slam Ball Shot Put

Discover the bent over rotational slam ball shot put exercise, a dynamic movement designed to develop explosive rotational power through the upper body with emphasis on thoracic rotation. This comprehensive guide explores proper technique, weight selection, and programming recommendations for this powerful exercise that directly transfers to rotational sports like golf, baseball, and tennis while enhancing athletic performance through improved mobility and explosive force production.

Best Exercises For Combat Sport Athletes

Discover the best exercises for combat sport athletes training in MMA, wrestling, boxing, and jiu-jitsu. This complete strength and conditioning guide covers essential movements for building grip strength, explosive power, rotational force, and fight-specific endurance that directly transfer to the cage and mat. Learn how to program grip-intensive rows, loaded carries, medicine ball throws, landmine variations, and sport-specific lifts like zercher squats and sumo deadlifts to dominate your competition.