Velocity Based Training Explained: The Science That Makes Athletes Stronger & More Explosive

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Velocity based training (VBT) replaces guesswork-heavy percentages with real-time bar speed data, letting the load-velocity relationship tell you exactly how hard to train on any given day. In this complete guide, strength coach Brandon Smitley of THIRST Gym breaks down autoregulation, velocity loss thresholds, and rate of force development—and shows how athletes, powerlifters, and everyday lifters can use VBT to train smarter and get genuinely stronger.

Seated Weighted Vertical Jump

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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.

Seated Vertical Jump

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The seated vertical jump is a simple, equipment-light plyometric exercise that builds explosive power and rate of force development by teaching athletes to produce force from a dead stop. In this guide, Brandon Smitley of THIRST Gym breaks down proper box height, jump stance, landing mechanics, and programming so you can jump higher and get off the ground faster. It’s the perfect power drill whether you’re in a fully equipped facility or training at home with just a chair.

Band Resisted Split Stance Vertical Jump

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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.

Broad Jump With Med Ball Throw

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The broad jump with medicine ball throw is a powerful plyometric exercise that develops explosive triple extension while training athletes to transfer force from the ground through an external object. This dynamic movement combines the benefits of jump training with upper body power development, making it an essential exercise for football players, swimmers, wrestlers, and any athlete seeking to improve their explosive performance. Learn the proper technique, programming guidelines, and coaching cues needed to safely implement this game-changing exercise into your athletic training routine.