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   Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7 Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/    Links: Website: http://transformingbball.app/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball