Westside Barbell

In this episode of the Westside Barbell podcast, Tom & Burley delve into the Repeated Effort Method, emphasizing its significance in strength training and hypertrophy. They discuss the importance of accessory work, execution, and intent in training, as well as the role of equipment. The conversation also covers the distinction between primary and secondary accessory movements, how to adjust training based on fatigue, and the benefits of repeated effort training. The hosts provide insights on building competency in training and transitioning to dynamic effort training, concluding with troubleshooting tips and resources for further learning. Takeaways - The repeated effort method focuses on lifting non-maximal loads to failure. - Accessory work constitutes 80% of training volume, crucial for strength development. - Proper execution and intent are vital for effective training. - Using equipment like straps and belts can enhance performance if used correctly. - Primary accessory movements target specific weaknesses and are higher intensity. - Secondary accessory exercises focus on hypertrophy and work capacity. - Adjust training based on fatigue and time constraints to maintain effectiveness. - Building competency in exercises is essential for beginners. - Transitioning to dynamic effort training should be gradual and based on competency. - Repeated effort training offers flexibility and adaptability in training programs. Connect with Westside Barbell: Website: westside-barbell.com Instagram: @WestsideBarbellOfficial Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces

In this episode of the Westside Barbell podcast, the Tom & Burley delve into the complexities of the Dynamic Effort Method, discussing its purpose, execution, and the importance of rate of force development. They explore the three-week wave format, emphasizing the need for proper technique and execution to ensure safety and effectiveness. The conversation also covers the role of accommodating resistance, the significance of rest periods, and the evaluation of performance. The hosts provide insights into selecting main exercises, troubleshooting common issues, and the impact of training volume on conditioning and performance. Takeaways Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces

In the debut episode of the Westside Barbell Combat Sports Strength & Conditioning Podcast, hosts Tom Barry and Burley Hawk introduce listeners to the world of strength training tailored for combat athletes, including competitive Jiu-Jitsu athletes, Wrestlers, and MMA fighters. They discuss the influential legacy of Westside Barbell founder Louie Simmons, who revolutionized modern strength training through the Conjugate Method. Topics include the critical role of absolute strength, how to effectively periodize training for combat athletes, and practical applications of the Max Effort Method. The hosts also clear up common misconceptions surrounding strength training for combat sports, highlighting why year-round, high-intensity training is essential for sustained peak performance. Takeaways Combat sports require specialized strength training to achieve peak performance. Louie Simmons revolutionized modern strength training through the Conjugate Method. Developing absolute strength helps grapplers control positions and reduces injuries. Max Effort training rapidly improves both strength and rate of force development. Effective periodization and real-time adjustments optimize training outcomes. Westside Barbell’s culture emphasizes consistency, intensity, and athlete-driven feedback. Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces

In this power-packed episode, we dive deep into the Max Effort Method—not just the “what,” but the “how” and “why” behind one of the most effective tools in strength programming. Whether you're a coach programming for athletes, a gym owner refining your training cycles, or a lifter pushing for consistent PRs, this conversation breaks down the nuance. We cover: Expect practical insight, real-world programming takeaways, and the kind of clarity most lifters and coaches miss. Tune in and train smarter. Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

Join Tom Barry and Burley Hawk as they explore the mindset, culture, and methods behind Westside’s Maximal Effort training. From Louie Simmons’ legendary principles to the chaos of group training that runs like a machine, this episode covers everything from exercise selection to the art of coaching and self-assessment. Learn why brutally strong athletes are built with smart intensity—not reckless effort. Key Points: Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

In this episode, we dive into why the Conjugate Method, pioneered and popularized by Louie Simmons and Westside Barbell, is particularly effective for high school football athletes. We explore the crucial role of strength training in enhancing football performance, discussing how absolute strength, explosive power, speed, and durability directly impact success on the field. You'll learn the essentials of the three pillars of the Conjugate Method: Maximal Effort, Dynamic Effort, and Repeated Effort. We break down common misconceptions around these methods, highlighting practical tips to maximize results without risking injury or burnout. We also discuss integrating plyometrics and accommodating resistance effectively to enhance explosive strength, speed, and agility. Finally, we emphasize the importance of cultivating the right training environment and team culture, ensuring long-term athletic success and consistent performance improvement. Check out our new E-Book: Conjugate Football Strength and Conditioning For High School Athletes Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

Today's episode is the Unracked: Mastering the Conjugate Method webinar Tom did with BridgeAthletic "UNRACKED is a live event series from BridgeAthletic where top coaches break down the training systems, methods, and philosophies that drive elite performance. In this session, Tom Barry, CEO of Westside Barbell and one of Louie Simmons’ handpicked successors, offers a focused walkthrough of the Conjugate Method in practice: how he programs, what he prioritizes, and why it works for his athletes. Free to attend and packed with practical insight." Many Thanks to BridgeAthletic for having Tom on. Organize Your Visit to Westside Barbell Here! Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

How do professional athletes stay strong, fast, and ready to compete all year round? At Westside Barbell, our athletes don’t have the luxury of long prep periods. They train at 90% of their best every day, so when the call comes—whether it’s for a title fight, a last-minute jiu-jitsu super fight, or an event—they’re ready. In this episode, Tom Barry and Burley Hawk break down: What training at 90% really means, and why Louie Simmons built Westside athletes this way Why traditional peaking cycles don’t work for fighters, grapplers, and elite competitors How max effort, dynamic effort, and volume work together to keep strength at its peak The real reason most athletes can’t handle this system—and why it’s a game-changer for those who can. (Blog on this topic: https://www.westside-barbell.com/blogs/the-blog/built-to-win-the-westside-barbell-blueprint-for-jiu-jitsu At Westside, MMA fighters, Jiu-Jitsu competitors, and our athletes don’t get 8-12 weeks to prepare. They have to be ready at all times—no excuses. Learn how we train, recover, and dominate using the principles taught by Louie Simmons and real-world-tested programming. Organize Your Visit to Westside Barbell Here! Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

In this episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast, Tom Barry and Burley Hawk break down Dynamic Effort Training, its role in building explosive strength, and how Westside has adapted it for powerlifters, MMA fighters, and Jiu-Jitsu athletes. Topics Covered: What is Dynamic Effort Training & how does it work? How to apply the three-week wave system for speed & power Why powerlifters, MMA fighters, and grapplers use this method How Westside Barbell modified Dynamic Effort for athletes Training density, volume per minute, and maximizing recovery "Train as strong as necessary, not as strong as possible." Westside Barbell continues to evolve Louie Simmons’ methods for today’s athletes. Organize Your Visit to Westside Barbell Here! Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

In this episode of Driven by Westside, join Tom Barry of Westside Barbell as he picks up former Ohio State linebacker, NFL athlete and renowned strength coach Anthony Schlegel for an in-depth, on-the-road conversation about all things training. From their days under legendary coaches like Louie Simmons, Jim Tressel, and Urban Meyer to the gritty environments of Metroflex Gym and Westside Barbell, this episode dives into the core principles that shape elite athletes. Anthony reveals how a simple program, coached at an elite level, can outperform even the most “perfect” training protocols if they’re not taught with passion and precision. They discuss striking the balance between sports science and old-school toughness, building a raw and relentless culture, and guiding athletes to maximize their genetic potential. Whether you’re interested in strength training, football performance, or just want to learn how top-level coaches keep athletes driven and injury-free, this conversation delivers real-world insights you can apply immediately. Tune in for candid stories about the impact of teamwork, the importance of recovery, and the mindset shift needed to transform good athletes into unstoppable champions. Don’t miss this high-energy “carcast” packed with practical tips, coaching hacks, and behind-the-scenes stories that bring the Westside Barbell ethos to life. Organize Your Visit to Westside Barbell Here! Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

On today's episode, using a recent training example in the gym, Tom & Burley discuss utilizing the conjugate method for strength training and how it impact's athlete's performance. They reinforce how important consistency is over PR's for an athlete and how vital training intent is. Key Topics: Organize Your Visit to Westside Barbell Here! Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club

Welcome to the first episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast for 2025. Tom & Burley recap the last 2 years at Westside. They discuss Louie's passing, his plans for the future of Westside, and his ongoing legacy. They also go over the current training approach at Westside and Westside's plan for 2025 Key Topics: Organize Your Visit to Westside Barbell Here! Follow Westside Barbell: Westside Barbell@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbellofficial@westsidebarbell Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Studio Sponsor: Dollamur Sport Surfaces CLMSConjugate TacticalThe Conjugate Club