EP179: Adding Variability in the Weight Room with Banj Abeleda

In this episode, George is joined by Banj Abeleda, also known as Mr. Move with Purpose, to discuss how coaches can use variability, mobility, and the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) to better prepare basketball athletes for the unpredictable demands of the game. Banj shares lessons from working with elite athletes, explains how he applies variability in the weight room and during return-to-play, and breaks down why coaches should focus on creating different movement solutions rather than simply adding random exercises.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introducing Banj Abeleda and lessons from elite athletes

02:00 – Using variability in the weight room and return-to-play

06:00 – Mobility, foot and ankle training, and Functional Range Conditioning

08:00 – Knowing when to prioritize form over variability

13:00 – Applying the Constraints-Led Approach and changing the movement problem

17:00 – Banj's journey with CLA and research-informed coaching

20:00 – Three lifts for basketball players: overhead press, Bulgarian split squat, and trap bar deadlift

23:00 – Building more intentional and effective warm-ups

26:00 – Isometrics, partner work, activation, and preparing for competition

28:00 – Transformative Tip