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

Coaching, Education, Sports Performance, Update, VideoLeave a comment

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.

Fitness Industry Trends: What’s Actually Science vs. What’s Just Marketing

Coaching, Education, Personal Training, Podcast, Sports Performance, Update, VideoLeave a comment

Every year the fitness industry rolls out new “revolutionary” trends, but separating real science from marketing hype takes a clear evaluation framework. In this comprehensive breakdown, THIRST Gym owner and strength coach Brandon Smitley analyzes the biggest fitness trends of 2026 across velocity based training, blood flow restriction, zone 2 cardio, HRV wearables, biohacking protocols, and more, identifying what’s legitimate, what’s overhyped, and what’s complete nonsense. Learn how to filter fitness trends through peer-reviewed research, effect size, and cost-benefit analysis to make smarter training, nutrition, and recovery decisions.