514: Ryan Banta on Evolving Speed Training Systems

514: Ryan Banta on Evolving Speed Training Systems

Author: Joel Smith, Just-Fly-Sports.com May 7, 2026 Duration: 1:30:32

Today’s podcast guest is Ryan Banta. Ryan is a leading sprint coach at Parkway Central High School, known for blending sport science with practical training. He has guided athletes to multiple state championships and national-level success, and is the author of The Sprinter’s Compendium.

In this episode, Ryan shares his unconventional path from politics to coaching, and how early success, and failure, shaped his evolution. He reflects on moving from ego-driven outcomes to athlete-centered development, emphasizing joy, community, and long-term retention. Banta dives into the growth of his “critical mass” system, blending speed, rest, and adaptability, while highlighting the importance of mentorship, self-reflection, and continual learning in building both performance and meaningful athlete experiences.

Today’s episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and Lila Exogen.


If you're an athlete, coach, or simply fascinated by what makes the human body excel, there's a conversation waiting for you. The Just Fly Performance Podcast digs into the nuanced world of athletic training, where the pursuit of speed and raw power takes center stage. Host Joel Smith doesn't just offer theories; he connects directly with the people who apply science on the field, in the weight room, and inside the athlete's mind. Each episode features in-depth discussions with a diverse range of performance experts, from strength coaches and track specialists to professionals who understand the psychological components of competition. What you'll hear is a practical, evolving dialogue that cuts through the noise, offering actionable insights into modern training methodologies. This podcast serves as a reliable resource for anyone looking to understand the full spectrum of what drives athletic potential, blending physiology, coaching wisdom, and the sheer love of sport into every conversation. Tune in to explore the intricate details that separate good performance from truly flying.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Just Fly Performance Podcast
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