Service Description

Athletic training methods are often viewed as being reserved for elite performers, yet the physiological principles that underpin elite performance are the same ones that support health, resilience, and long-term function in the general population. This session examines how plyometrics, sprint interval training (SIT), and heavy strength training can be safely and effectively integrated into programs for non-athletes. Drawing from Dr. Bucciarelli's over 20 years of experience in exercise physiology, biomechanics, clinical research, and of course, professional sports, this presentation challenges the notion that these methods are inherently risky or inappropriate for adults outside of competitive sport. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of why these training modalities work, who they are appropriate for, and how to scale intensity, volume, and complexity based on individual readiness, training age, and injury history. The session emphasizes performance-informed programming that improves strength, power, metabolic health, bone density, and movement capacity—without unnecessary fatigue or injury risk. ----- ABOUT RICHARD Dr. Richard Bucciarelli, PhD, R.Kin, CSCS, CSEP-CEP, USSF “A”, is a professional fitness coach, sports scientist, and coach educator, and the owner of Speed Training, a sport-specific strength and conditioning company in Toronto. He has worked at elite levels of soccer in Canada and internationally, including with the Canadian Women’s National Teams, Toronto FC Academy, Ottawa Fury FC (USL), Halifax Wanderers FC and York United FC (CPL), as well as several Canadian college and university programs. Richard holds a PhD from the University of Guelph specializing in the biomechanics of speed and acceleration training in soccer players. He is a professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of Guelph-Humber and has presented his research at major international sports science and coaching conferences. An active author and coach educator, he has published more than 50 articles and works with organizations including Ontario Soccer and Canada Soccer.