Velocity-Based Training Explained: How to Build Strength, Speed & Power with Bryan Mann | #073

What if the way you’ve been training for strength is actually limiting your power?

In this episode, Judd sits down with Dr. Bryan Mann — pioneer of velocity-based training (VBT), former University of Missouri strength coach, and professor of Performance Physiology at Texas A&M — to break down how measuring bar speed can completely change the way you train.

Bryan coined the term “velocity-based training” and helped bring it into Division 1 athletics. But this conversation goes far beyond elite football weight rooms.

Contact Bryan:

If you are interested in applying for Bryan's program for the Fall of 2026, even though the portal is technically closed, they are willing to make an exception for Judd's listeners. You have until March 15th to email Bryan at the address below directly expressing interest and then Bryan will send out a link to all interested people.

jbryanmann@tamu.edu

https://www.instagram.com/jbryanmann/

https://knsm.tamu.edu/programs/performance-physiology-strength-conditioning-m-s/

You’ll learn:

• What velocity-based training really is (and how simple it can be)
 • Why maximal intent matters more than load percentage
 • How stopping sets before failure can improve strength faster
 • The difference between strength-speed and speed-strength
 • How to find your peak power and train in the right zone
 • Why bands and chains can unlock new adaptations
 • How to use velocity loss for hypertrophy vs strength
 • Why sprinting and jumping are essential — even for non-athletes
 • The #1 predictor of staying out of a nursing home
 • How power training improves gait speed in Parkinson’s patients

Bryan explains that strength raises your ceiling — but velocity determines how much of that strength you can actually express.

Most lifters get strong… but not powerful.

And for aging populations, power might matter even more than strength. Bryan shares groundbreaking research showing that high-velocity resistance training improves habitual gait speed in Parkinson’s patients — even when they weren’t instructed to walk faster.

This episode is for:
 • Athletes
 • Coaches
 • Lifters stuck at plateaus
 • Anyone who wants to train smarter
 • Anyone who cares about long-term functional independence

If you’ve ever wondered whether grinding to failure is really necessary… or if there’s a better way to build explosive strength — this conversation is for you.

This episode is brought to you by LMNT.

Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd

The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits.

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