The Movement System Podcast
Matthew Casturo
Improve your understanding of Human Movement!
This information-dense, no-BS podcast is a platform for fitness professionals, physical therapists, strength coaches, personal trainers, students studying for the CSCS Exam and anyone who moves to learn the science of human movement.
Host Matt Casturo, DPT, CSCS, discusses exercise science, coaching, training techniques, and more.
Follow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themovementsystem/ or head to https://www.themovementsystem.com to learn more.
Studying for the CSCS Exam?
Check out The Movement System CSCS Study Course and Practice test: https://www.themovementsystem.com/strength-and-conditioning-study-course-sales-page
This information-dense, no-BS podcast is a platform for fitness professionals, physical therapists, strength coaches, personal trainers, students studying for the CSCS Exam and anyone who moves to learn the science of human movement.
Host Matt Casturo, DPT, CSCS, discusses exercise science, coaching, training techniques, and more.
Follow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themovementsystem/ or head to https://www.themovementsystem.com to learn more.
Studying for the CSCS Exam?
Check out The Movement System CSCS Study Course and Practice test: https://www.themovementsystem.com/strength-and-conditioning-study-course-sales-page
Episodes
Mentioned books
12 snips
Mar 11, 2026 • 23min
CSCS Prep: Overtraining
Discussion of General Adaptation Syndrome and how short-term overreaching can lead to supercompensation. Comparison of functional versus nonfunctional overreaching and the continuum toward overtraining. Exploration of autonomic changes in sympathetic and parasympathetic overtraining. Conversation about allostatic load, movement variability, and practical monitoring measures like heart rate, power, and training desire.
10 snips
Feb 25, 2026 • 25min
A Coach's Guide to Conditioning
A practical walkthrough of the conditioning spectrum from aerobic base work to all-out sprints. Clear explanations of zone two training, heart-rate targets, and how much aerobic work to do for different goals. Guidance on threshold and tempo sessions, interval formats for VO2 max work, and short maximal bursts. Tips for balancing aerobic and anaerobic sessions using an 80/20 approach.
9 snips
Feb 11, 2026 • 26min
A Coach's Guide to Plyometrics
A practical walkthrough of plyometric training as a strength‑to‑reactivity spectrum. Short versus long ground contacts and where different jump types fit on that continuum. How jump training, slow and fast stretch‑shortening cycles, and maximal reactivity each target specific adaptations. Simple measurement tools and practical tips for applying these methods with athletes.
10 snips
Jan 28, 2026 • 29min
A Coach's Guide to Isometrics
A tour of isometric training across a wide spectrum, from minute-long yielding holds to explosive 0.5–5 second contractions. Practical uses in rehab, tendon health, and sport performance are highlighted. Testing methods and programming order get attention. Advanced tools like ballistic isometrics and iso switches are explored.
18 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 42min
The Science of Bone Loading in Plyometrics and Running with Nathan Carlson
In this engaging discussion, Nathan Carlson, a physical therapist and expert in bone stress injuries, shares insights into the world of running and plyometrics. He explains why many young runners face low bone density and the importance of resistance training. Nathan dives into site-specific bone loading and how to select plyometrics that match an athlete's needs. He also emphasizes the role of nutrition and timing in optimizing bone health, giving practical advice for coaches and athletes on preventing injuries and enhancing performance.
21 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 27min
7 Program Design Mistakes I Made Writing 500+ Athlete Programs
In this discussion, Matt shares his ten years of experience with program design, highlighting key mistakes he made. He emphasizes the importance of objective data for tracking athletic performance and the need to balance volume with intensity for better results. The conversation dives deep into periodization strategies, advocating for tailored approaches based on an athlete's age. Matt also explores the significance of bone mineral density, effective isometric training, and the benefits of closed-chain exercises, leaving listeners with valuable insights to enhance their training methods.
11 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 56min
5 Levels of Gym Tech Making Athletes Faster with Brett Morse
Brett Morse, a speed and strength coach specializing in sprint training and performance technology, returns to discuss innovative gym tech. He elaborates on video analysis, emphasizing its role in refining technique and coaching youth athletes. The conversation shifts to ground contact metrics and velocity-based training, highlighting how immediate data enhances athlete motivation and performance. Brett also explores the use of timing gates for sprint testing and smart resistance tools, while advocating for creative training methods like hills and sleds.
11 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 19min
Plyometrics and the Nervous System
Explore the fascinating link between plyometrics and the nervous system, revealing how adaptations enhance athleticism. Discover key visual cues for effective coaching, including projection, posture, and rhythm. Learn about neuromuscular inhibition and its impact on force production. Uncover exercises designed to break down these inhibitions, promoting better movement dynamics. Matt emphasizes the importance of consistent plyometric training for recovery and performance, plus the benefits of combining strength work with plyometrics to maximize explosive power.
8 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 18min
Periodization for Plyometrics
Explore the fascinating world of plyometrics and how it can be trained year-round for various populations. Learn the nuances between depth and drop jumps, and the implications of contact times. Delve into the history of the Shock Method and its unique demands, alongside practical tips for periodization throughout the athletic seasons. Discover the differences between intensive and extensive plyometrics and gain insights on optimizing training for athletes without traditional seasons. Maintain performance while minimizing fatigue with smart in-season strategies!
8 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 15min
The Physiology of Plyometric Training
Delve into the fascinating world of plyometric training and its physiological impacts. Discover how muscles, tendons, and bones adapt to specific stimuli. Learn about the intricate biochemical processes that fuel these adaptations. The discussion highlights the crucial role of the nervous system in optimizing performance through proper stimulus and recovery strategies. Uncover how plyometrics can enhance athletic capabilities seamlessly!
